As an educator and founder of an English tuition centre, I have always believed in the power of effective communication. The upcoming changes to the PSLE English examination in 2025, with a greater emphasis on the Oral component, mark a significant step towards fostering confident and articulate young communicators in Singapore.
Starting in 2025, the Oral component will account for 40 marks instead of the previous 30. This shift by the Ministry of Education (MOE) underscores the importance of verbal expression and real-world communication skills, aligning with the demands of the 21st century. In a world where clear communication is paramount, this change is both timely and necessary.
The Importance of Effective Verbal Communication
Effective communication goes beyond just speaking clearly; it encompasses the ability to convey thoughts, ideas, and emotions with clarity and confidence. In today’s interconnected world, these skills are more crucial than ever. Whether collaborating in a team, presenting ideas, or simply expressing oneself, the ability to communicate effectively is a cornerstone of success.
The increased focus on the Oral component aims to develop these essential skills in our students. By placing greater weight on oral examinations, we are encouraging our young learners to hone their verbal communication abilities. This not only prepares them for academic success but also equips them with the tools needed for future professional and personal interactions.
The Impact of 10 Extra Marks: Jumping Grades
One of the most significant impacts of the new Oral component is its potential to boost a student’s overall grade. With the new AL scoring system, moving from AL 5 to AL 4 requires a 10-mark jump, and from AL 4 onwards, every 5 marks can lead to a jump to the next band. This means that seizing those 10 additional marks in the Oral component can potentially help a child jump up to two bands.
Traditionally, the Oral component has often been overlooked until exam time, while writing is seen as requiring consistent practice. However, with the changes implemented, Oral now has a higher weightage than Continuous Writing (Composition). It is time to reconsider giving more attention to Oral preparation and putting in more effort to help our children become effective communicators.
Strategies for Success
To excel in the new Oral component, students need a firm understanding of the requirements and how to fulfill them. Here are some strategies to help students and parents navigate the new format:
- Clarify Doubts Early: Students should clarify any doubts they have with their teachers as a first step. Understanding the task requirements and having the right guidance and exam-smart strategies are crucial for performing well.
- Engage in Real-World Conversations: The new format focuses on authentic tasks and social situations. Parents can help by engaging their children in conversation during everyday activities. For instance, while waiting for the train, parents can use posters on the doors to spark a discussion. Questions like “What do you think is going on in this scene? How do you think the person is feeling?” can be asked to encourage thoughtful responses.
- Consistent Practice: Regular and frequent practice is key to building confidence in verbal communication. Short, daily activities can be as effective as longer practice sessions. Encouraging children to reflect on situations they witness, such as someone giving up a seat on the train, can also help develop their ability to express themselves clearly.
Supporting Students Through Preparation and Practice
Preparation is key to success in any examination. For the new Oral component, understanding the task requirements and practising regularly is essential. Our in-house oral strategy, RASE, provides a framework that helps students structure their answers with clarity. Additionally, our step-by-step approach ensures that students are familiar with the new task requirements for both the Reading Aloud component and the Stimulus-Based Conversation.
Parents play a crucial role in this preparation. Engaging children in regular conversations, discussing everyday situations, and encouraging them to express their thoughts can significantly enhance their verbal skills. Remember, nothing is too ordinary to be talked about – even a simple train ride can become an opportunity for meaningful conversation.
The Impact on Students and the Way Forward
The first batch of students to experience these changes may feel like trailblazers, facing the unknown with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. I encourage them to embrace this challenge as an opportunity to develop their communication skills further. They are setting the stage for future cohorts and will have valuable stories to share about their journey.
At Lil’ but Mighty, we are committed to supporting our students every step of the way. Our “Learn, Share, Replay” methodology empowers students to become Junior Teachers, building their confidence in oral presentation and communication. This, coupled with our updated Oral workshop for PSLE 2025, ensures that our learners are well-equipped to tackle the new format.
A Balanced Approach to Learning
While the increased focus on the Oral component is significant, it is essential to maintain a balanced approach to learning. Every component of the PSLE English examination is important, and students should continue to develop their skills across all areas. Consistent practice, reflection on progress, and celebrating small victories are key to building confidence and achieving success.
The changes to the PSLE English examination represent a positive shift towards nurturing effective communicators. By embracing these changes with preparation and practice, our students can develop the skills needed for academic success and beyond. At Lil’ but Mighty, we are excited to be part of this journey, supporting young learners as they grow into confident, articulate individuals ready to face the future.
About the Author:
Lily Chew is the founder of Lil’ but Mighty, an English tuition centre for primary and secondary school students. With a passion for teaching and a commitment to nurturing young minds, Lily has been instrumental in helping students develop their English language skills since 2015.