English Language

Objective

The English Language Department aims to develop Crestans into confident communicators by infusing a specially curated blended approach into our curriculum.

We aim for students to:

express themselves coherently through speaking and writing
showcase their strengths and work on areas for improvement
use the language meaningfully in everyday life
inculcate a love for reading

The four-year programme is designed based on our department’s unique pedagogical framework which guides us in planning and executing our lessons:

Create interest

Rehearse, Reinforce, Recode

Experience

Structures

Task

Our lessons are thematically designed and cascaded in such a way that learning is progressive and gradual over the four years. Students are given the opportunities to hone their language skills in authentic, real-world contexts such as making small talk in a social setting and checking in to a hotel through role-play.

In Crest, we believe every student can learn. As such, encouraging formative assessments form an integral part of the holistic assessments. Engaging lessons with enriching supporting activities are created to ensure learning takes place meaningfully.

At the end of four years, all Crestans would be able to communicate confidently and effectively.

Curriculum

These are some of our signature programmes.

Mocktail Party (Secondary 1)

This alternative assessment is the culmination of the teaching, learning and application of effective oral communication skills for the Secondary 1 students over three terms. Students take on the roles of Crest Ambassador, Host, Visitor and Head Waiter, and apply their oracy skills by engaging in small talk while light refreshments are being served, in the authentic context of our Bistro / Cafe.

Super Draw (Secondary 1)

Through authentic form-filling activities, students have the opportunities to learn and grasp the know-hows of filling up a form. To consolidate their learning, a “Super Draw” is held where accurate winning entries are celebrated by receiving prizes as a form of encouragement.

Yuhua Village Learning Journey (Secondary 1)

The Sec 1 Learning Journey to Yuhua Village gives Secondary One Crestans the opportunity to explore and familiarise themselves with a local neighbourhood while practising their English Language skills. In addition to walking around and discovering various landmarks, students experienced the vibrant culture of a local hawker centre. This experiential learning activity allowed them to apply their language skills in real-life situations, helping them connect more deeply with the community and gain confidence in using English in everyday contexts.

Escape Room (Secondary 1 and 2)

Every semester, EL teachers will conceptualise and conduct an Escape Room game that serves as a reinforcement of oracy and literacy skills taught in that semester. Every student in the level will have the chance to apply what they have learnt in that semester to ace the game.

Tourist for a Day (Secondary 2)

Students embark on a Learning Journey (LJ) to experience what it is like to be a tourist in Singapore, taking a river taxi and exploring the iconic Marina Bay Sands. In addition to enjoying the sights, they interact with visitors from around the world through an interview activity. This experience not only exposes them to authentic hospitality and customer service but also equips them with knowledge that they can apply during Check-in@Crest as they learn to make recommendations to guests.

Check-In@Crest (Secondary 2)

Check-In@Crest integrates Secondary 2 students' learning of key communication skills such as giving directions, offering recommendations, and speaking in a formal register over three terms, including the 'Tourist for a Day' learning journey (LJ). Students take on roles as visitor centre officers and tourists, engaging in meaningful verbal exchanges by providing directions and recommending local attractions and eateries.

Talk Show (Secondary 3)

The Sec 3 Talk Show Project helps students develop interview and audience engagement skills while further honing their oracy abilities. Through role-playing as either a host or a guest, students apply techniques learned in class, including how to engage listeners and use effective questioning. They also incorporate personal anecdotes, which they've prepared during lessons, to add depth and authenticity to their responses, enhancing their overall communication skills.

Theatre Experience (Secondary 3)

The Sec 3 Theatre Experience immersed students in the world of local theatre through a blended learning approach. Whether attending a live production or watching online, students were exposed to the vibrant local theatre scene. The experience sometimes included a drama workshop, where they learnt to communicate clearly and confidently through theatre games. The programme usually concludes with a post-show segment, offering students the unique opportunity to engage with the playwright and actors, deepening their understanding of theatrical performance and storytelling.

Food Reviews (Secondary 3)

The Sec 3 Food Review Experience offers students the opportunity to combine learning with a shared dining experience. As a class, they sample a variety of dishes, fostering camaraderie through food. Following the meal, students apply their writing skills to craft authentic food reviews and recommendations, drawing from their firsthand experience to critique the dishes and atmosphere. This real-world context allows them to refine their descriptive writing and evaluative skills in a meaningful and enjoyable way.

Oratorical Contest (Secondary 4)

The Sec 4 Oratorical Contest challenges students to think on their feet, sharpening both their critical thinking and oracy skills in preparation for their oral exams. Contestants compete by delivering impromptu speeches on a variety of topics, demonstrating their ability to organize thoughts quickly and present them with confidence. This experience hones their speaking and presentation abilities while fostering the skills needed to articulate ideas effectively under pressure.