Q1: My daughter is weak in English. Would this be a huge disadvantage in secondary school?

A1: Yes, because English is the main medium of communication. Except for Mother Tongue lessons, English is used to teach all other subjects in the classroom.

Besides speaking and writing skills, the child needs to have language skills specific to the different subjects, such as the ability to describe and argue in essays, or to persuade or explain in science and the humanities. She must also read widely to expand her worldview.

You'll need to get your child to practise the language as much as possible. Work closely with her teacher or have a teacher-mentor. Encourage your daughter to keep a private log on what she is reading. Get her to express herself as much as possible; for example, she can describe her reactions to things around her, her feelings or reactions to a movie, a TV programme or any other topic, and record these in her log.


Q2: My son is weak in both the Mother Tongue and English languages. I've tried everything I know - from audio tapes to flashcards to reading with him. What else can I do?

A2: One's attitude towards language learning has a lot to do with personal enthusiasm. Create an environment that encourages your son to use the languages as often as you can. It's very important that he is able to communicate as it's really a case of "use it or lose it'".

Encourage your son to ask questions and speak up. Oral communication is important as it helps to build up confidence in using the language, which can be transferred to his thinking and writing skills. Keep on supporting him in his commitment to improve as well as his attitude towards the languages.

Q3: My daughter is exempted from studying a 2nd Language in primary school. Will she be penalised or disadvantaged if I chose Nanyang Girls' High School for her?

A3: No, she will not be penalised as admission is by merit - her T-score will be divided by three instead of four subjects. When your daughter gets into secondary school, she may be further exempted or read the Mother Tongue-B syllabus, depending on the reasons for her exemption in primary school. The MT-B syllabus is a simpler version of the normal MT syllabus.

Mhd Imran bin Rahmat (L) loves to read and write, and his father Rahmat bin Ali hopes to send him to a good school that will nurture his interest.

Q4: My child is good in literature. How can I nurture her interest?

A4: Get to know the school's Literature teacher and ask if he or she could mentor your child. Teachers are very keen to help students who are enthusiastic in their subject areas, and would be more than happy to nurture your child's interests. Find out if the school has a Literary, Dance & Drama Society or a CCA for writing-related activities that your child can join.

You could also get her to set up her own blog - there are many easy-to-use, online templates to get her started; this will allow people to read her writing work online.

Q6: Are chapel sessions compulsory in mission schools?

A6: The emphasis on religion differs from school to school. We suggest you call or email the principal of the individual schools or attend their Open House to find out more. Whether chapel sessions are compulsory depends on the schools.