How can we manage better relations cross culturally and deal with the continued changes in our global demographic? The answer is simple…language. Take Singapore; can our kids survive on language at merely an intermediate level? Will ‘Singlish’ suffice in the global arena especially as our young adults start looking for work beyond our borders? Probably not. It is therefore of utmost imperative to become more proficient linguistically, in order to communicate well with people all over the world.
As a parent, you might be wondering if the local MOE-prescribed English/other language education standards are enough. Chris Supple, master trainer at Berlitz shares his expert opinion.
Recently, there has been a shift in the way that language is being delivered in our schools. There is less of a focus on the study of grammar and finally, institutions are becoming aware of the importance of discussions through active speaking.
Learn to be the best communicator at your own pace
The Ministry of Education in Singapore has only just released a plan to ‘tweak’ the English Language paper for the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) by 2015. The idea here is that our kids will have a greater opportunity to actually engage in open discussions where they will better learn how to express themselves through active speech. This is what Berlitz excels in. At Berlitz, our teaching method has remained true to the development of language through speaking. Our programs have always been designed to allow the student to explore the language they have learned in the Berlitz classroom, though guided discussions with our experienced instructors. Grammar takes the back bench as students learn how to make competent choices of the language they require to engage in debates, negotiations and general discussions.
Be prepared
With the many changes that globalization brings, the need to push forward in such a competitive world becomes more and more apparent. Parents are far more involved in the processes of their children’s development than they ever have been before. Individuals all over the globe are seeking out the best schools, universities and colleges they can find in order to better their chances of getting better jobs and securing better futures for themselves.
The competition a child will face as they leave formal education and move into the workforce is fierce, and more so than ever, we need to prepare our youth for this challenge. The place to start is improving the way they communicate. All of the programs that Berlitz provide for younger learners are designed to promote both fluency and accuracy in any target language the individual wants to study. Bearing in mind our focus on being learner centred, every program can be tailored to suit the needs of the individual.
The reality is that many of the entrance exams that international schools present focus on speaking first. Thus the programs at Berlitz are perfect for providing the necessary tools for kids to better their chances of passing these kinds of exams. Further practice of the other language skills required for these exams, such as listening, reading and writing, are always part of the Berlitz lesson and also bolster their chances.
Accreditation carries weight
Accreditation may be required for many educational or employment settings as a starting point of entry. It may better the chances of an individual getting an interview. Many universities for example, require international students to do well in language courses such as IELTS or TOEFL.
The Berlitz Programs provide the necessary training that will enable students to gain much better scores when tested with the added benefit of allowing the individual to be able to present themselves orally in interviews beyond the test and increase the likelihood of gaining employment.
If you’re keen on finding out more here’s who you can contact:
Berlitz Language Centre (Singapore) | SMS / Call: (65) 9777 3527 / (65) 6733 7472 | Email: rocky.koo@em.berlitz.com
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