Enhancing 21st Century Competencies through the New Primary Mother Tongue Languages Curriculum, Starting for Primary One in 2024

Introduction:
The Ministry of Education (MOE) recently unveiled the 2024 Primary Mother Tongue Languages (MTL) curriculum during the 12th Mother Tongue Languages Symposium (MTLS). This new curriculum, set to be implemented gradually, starting from the Primary 1 cohort in 2024, aims to nurture students’ appreciation for their mother tongue language and equip them with the necessary skills and confidence to use it effectively throughout their lives.

Cultivating Appreciation and Confidence:
The primary objective of the refreshed 2024 Primary MTL curriculum is to foster an appreciation for students’ mother tongue language and culture, while instilling a sense of confidence in their ability to learn and utilize it in various contexts. Expanding on the foundations laid by the previous curriculum in 2015, this updated version places particular emphasis on developing 21st Century Competencies.

Emphasizing 21st Century Competencies:
To ensure that students are equipped with the essential competencies needed in the 21st century, the new Primary MTL curriculum strives to enhance intra- and cross-cultural skills, communication skills, critical and inventive thinking. By doing so, students will not only become proficient in their mother tongue language but also gain a broader understanding of other cultures, enhance their ability to express themselves effectively, and develop critical thinking skills that are pertinent in today’s rapidly changing world.

Authenticity and Relevance:
A key aspect of the revised curriculum is the incorporation of authentic contexts and materials that align with students’ interests and daily lives. By integrating these real-life connections into language learning, students will be better able to relate to and appreciate the practical applications of their mother tongue language. This approach ensures that the learning process remains engaging and meaningful for students.

Leveraging Technology and Multi-Modal Approaches:
Recognizing the contemporary educational landscape, the new Primary MTL curriculum encourages MOE teachers to adopt multi-modal approaches, leveraging technology as a tool to engage and support students in their language acquisition journey. Through the use of gamification and differentiated resources, students will have the opportunity to hone their language skills at their own pace, beyond the confines of the traditional classroom environment. Furthermore, parents are encouraged to utilize these resources to support their child’s learning of MTL at home, facilitating a more holistic language learning experience.