EL Exam matters

Dear parents,

I would like to bring this to your attention. I've given out a letter regarding the EL examination such as the marking scheme for Oral and Composition writing. Enclosed is the sample Composition and Oral examination paper for your reference. Please go through with them. Please remind your child to use present or present continuous tense for their Picture Discussion and use past tense for their Composition.

Today, I've modelled the bad and good example of reading and we've discussed what to say for the Picture Discussion. Please get them to be the little teacher and display the good way of reading and holding a discussion about the picture.

The following phrases below are the sentence stems for them to start their discussion. I taught them to have a clear sequence in describing the picture. Generally, I taught them to follow this sequence left - middle - right. It will be clear for them. Also, please remind your child to wait, greet the examiner and introduce himself (name and register number) before starting.

1) This picture shows a ... (to start the discussion)
2) I can see...
3) I think/feel that...
4) I like/do not like (usually what he feels about the whole scene at the end of the discussion)

Please take note that at the end of the Picture Discussion, it is always good practice to express their feelings about the picture and share their experiences. As they grow older, the PSLE requirement is for them to give good explanations to support their interpretations with a wide range of appropriate vocabulary and correct sentence structures. A bonus would be for them to express their feelings/opinions and give a summary of the picture given. So i feel that it is good to start early.

Most importantly, have fun spending quality time with your child while he learns and once English Language is learnt in a non-threatening environment, he will love and appreciate not just English Language but all other subjects.

Oops! Quite a huge chunk of information! Hope it helps though (;

Have a blessed mid-week!