Mother Tongue Language

VISION: NURTURING ACTIVE LEARNERS AND PROFICIENT USERS

The Mother Tongue department aims to develop students’ proficiency in using Mother Tongue languages (MTL) as a means of communication, while fostering an appreciation for their cultures and enabling them to understand and embrace their unique identities.

Programmes and Activities

The Mother Tongue department encourages students in the active learning of their MTLs through our programmes. In the various activities, our students develop an appreciation for their unique cultures.

Our programmes and activities include:

● MTL Fortnight and Language & Cultural Camp
● Cultural Performance Exposure
● Author in residence programme
● Celebration of Festivals
● Exchange programme with overseas schools

MTL Gallery NBSS MTL DEPARTMENT

MOTHER TONGUE FORTNIGHT

The annual Mother Tongue Fortnight is a programme designed to create an immersive environment for students to learn and appreciate their Mother Tongue Language. The program offers a wide range of activities that aim to engage students and deepen their understanding and appreciation of their respective MTLs and cultures

MALAY LANGUAGE o Batik painting
o Kompang workshop
o Nasi Ambeng experience
o Traditional games

The Batik painting workshops allowed our students to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the artistic traditions and cultural heritage of the Malay community.

TAMIL LANGUAGE o Learning about Indian traditional food Pongal Making
o Learning how to play Indian traditional drum from a musician
o Kolam art
o Banana leaf experience

The Banana Leaf Experience is a highlight of the Mother Tongue Fortnight programme, offering students the opportunity to enjoy a scrumptious Indian vegetarian meal with their friends. Served on banana leaves, this experience allows students to understand the cultural significance and reasons behind this traditional practice.

CHINESE LANGUAGE o Seal cutting
o Traditional Chinese character mask drawing
o Traditional games
o Traditional Chinese food making
o Gourd painting

The Chinese seal carving and Gourd painting workshops enable students to learn traditional Chinese arts and crafts. By carving their own seals and creating intricate designs on Gourd, students explore the richness of Chinese cultural heritage. These hands-on experiences foster a deeper appreciation for the artistic traditions and customs associated with the Chinese language.

MTL LEARNING JOURNEYS

The learning journeys to heritage sites, such as Little India, Kampong Glam, and Chinatown, provide our students with immersive experiences allowing our students to have the opportunity to witness firsthand the vibrant traditions, customs, and historical significance embedded within their respective cultures. These journeys foster a stronger connection and appreciation for their heritage, enabling students to embrace their cultural identity with pride.

MALAY LANGUAGE

o Learning journey to Malay heritage centre
o Genta Rasa performance @Mediacorp
o Authentic Malay traditional cuisine experience

TAMIL UNIT o Learning journey to Indian Heritage Centre
o Learning journey to Little India
o Traditional musical experience

CHINESE LANGUAGE o River Hongbao 2023（春到河畔2023
o Chinese musical at Drama Centre, 《都是当兵惹的祸》The Soldier & His Virtuous Wife

CELEBRATION OF FESTIVALS

MTL Department organises traditional festivals from different cultures. This provides students with an immersive experience in the joyful festive atmosphere. These celebrations not only allow students to immerse themselves in the festivities but also provide an opportunity for them to understand and appreciate the meanings and values behind each festival. By gaining a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of these celebrations, students develop a stronger attachment to their own culture and traditions, fostering a sense of pride and appreciation for their heritage.

HARI RAYA CELEBRATION Students confidently showcase the beauty of Malay traditional costumes on stage and learn about the significance of Hari Raya celebrations.

PONGAL CELEBRATION During the celebration of the Indian traditional Pongal festival, students actively participate by engaging in activities that include learning Pongal recipes and creating Rangoli art. Through these hands-on experiences, students not only gain practical knowledge of traditional cooking techniques but also explore their creativity by designing vibrant Rangoli patterns.

LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION “Lohei,” or “捞鱼生,” which means “toss up a good fortune”. During Chinese new year, our students come together to participate in the lively activity of lohei. This involves tossing and mixing various ingredients together while expressing well wishes and blessings for the upcoming year. By actively participating in Lohei, students embrace the festive spirit and celebrate the Lunar New Year with enthusiasm and positivity.

OTHER MTL PROGRAMME

AUTHOR-IN-RESIDENCE PROGRAMME

Renowned local writers were invited to come to Naval Base Secondary School to promote a love for literature among our students, inspiring them through their personal experiences and literary works. This initiative cultivates a passion for reading, writing, encouraging students to appreciate and engage with the power of literature.

MALAY LANGUAGE Local writer

CHINESE UNIT

LANGUAGE & CULTURAL PROGRAMMES

Our collaboration with CPCLL brings signature programmes like the National Schools Xinyao Festival and Cstreet dance sharing, engaging students and fostering appreciation for their Mother Tongue through music and dance. o National Schools Xinyao Festival 2023（2023年“新空下”全国学生新谣音乐节）
o Cstreet Dance Sharing (爱上华文街舞)

EXCHANGE PROGRAMME WITH OVERSEAS SCHOOLS

The Mother Tongue Language department collaborates with overseas schools to conduct exchange programs, enabling our students to form friendships with students from other countries. These programs facilitate meaningful interactions, promoting mutual understanding of cultures and traditions. Through these exchanges, students broaden their horizons beyond Singapore and gain valuable insights into diverse perspectives. o CL students interacting with students from Changsha, China
o ML students interacting with students from Indonesia