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Canadian International School is Expanding its Chinese-English Bilingual Programme to Nursery in 2022

canadian international school bilingual nursery
LearnPost Category - LearnLearn - Post Category - SchoolsSchools

Looking for a great bilingual programme right from the nursery level? CIS has it!

Did you know that Canadian International School (CIS) was the first international school to offer a Chinese-English bilingual programme in 2014? The programme has become so successful that it’s now offered in over 47 classes, and will be expanded into Nursery (for children 2 years old and up) in the 2022 school year!

The Chinese-English bilingual programme at CIS is a pioneering 50:50 model where children learn in English one day and in Chinese the next. Students get to experience equal exposure to both languages, with the aim to help non-native speakers and native speakers in the younger years. Being able to communicate effectively in more than one language has a host of known benefits, including mental dexterity and improved problem-solving skills. In the 2020-2021 Youth Chinese Test (YCT), students in grades 1-6 scored an average pass rate of 97%!

Learning in both languages with real world context

As the bilingual programme is fully aligned to the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the CIS curriculum is delivered through the PYP framework and features an inquiry-based learning approach. As children learn about Chinese culture, they understand the context of what they are learning about, and how the language may differ from their own.

The Chinese-English bilingual programme is the same as the English programme, meaning students learn maths, literacy, social studies and science, arts and PE in Chinese as well. The two native speaking teachers in each class work closely together to integrate and complement curriculum topics. This gives less focus on actually learning the language, and instead using it as a medium while learning other subjects during the week.

canadian international school bilingual nursery

How CIS supports children even if they don’t speak Chinese at home

Homework is tailored to each child, allowing them to learn both languages at their own pace. There is also the “optional extra work” which is available to students if they want to challenge themselves. CIS uses a variety of language apps such as RazKids and WawaYaya, which help with pronunciation and can cater to all levels. This way, children can also teach parents a few words of their new language! CIS also encourages students to practice their mother tongue at home. Reading with your child from an early age in any language will grow their vocabulary and understanding.

Want to know more? Ask the bilingual principals and team your questions at CIS’ next open house this November! You will also hear from the Head of School about the CIS ethos and school life, and see classes in action. The Chinese-English bilingual programme is available from pre-K to grade 6, learn more here.

Join the CIS Open House!
18 November, 9am (Lakeside)
19 November, 9am (Tanjong Katong)

Canadian International School
Lakeside campus: 7 Jurong West Street 41, Singapore 649414
Tanjong Katong campus: 371 Tanjong Katong Road, Singapore 437128
[email protected], Tel: (+65) 6734 8088,
Read all about the CIS Bilingual Programme here!

Brought to you in partnership with Canadian International School

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