English Language & Social Studies
Discover how our English Language and Social Studies programmes build strong literacy skills and nurture confident, empathetic learners ready for the future.
At the English Language and Social Studies Department, we believe learning goes beyond the classroom. Through meaningful and authentic experiences, our students grow into confident communicators, critical thinkers and empathetic individuals who are ready to engage with the world around them.
Anchored in character education, our programmes build strong language foundations while nurturing curiosity, creativity and civic responsibility. Students are equipped with the skills to communicate effectively, think critically and collaborate with others—preparing them to thrive in a dynamic, interconnected world.
A Strong Foundation in Language Learning (STELLAR)
Our English Language curriculum is anchored in STELLAR (Strategies for English Language Learning and Reading), MOE’s key pedagogical approach to developing strong language and literacy skills.
In the lower primary years, students participate in shared book reading, guided writing and engaging learning centres, where they listen, speak, read and write in a supportive environment. These experiences build confidence, fluency and a love for language.
In the upper primary years, students engage in supported reading and the writing process, enabling them to read widely, think critically and write purposefully for different audiences.
Students engaged in collaborative reading and writing activities during STELLAR lessons
Igniting a Love for Reading
We cultivate a vibrant reading culture that inspires students to explore, imagine and think deeply.
a) Author Talks
Students engage with children’s authors and National Library Board librarians, gaining insights into storytelling while discovering a wide range of engaging books.
Students interacting with the librarian from National Library Board during a book sharing session
b) Book Buffet & Class Libraries
Students select books to build their classroom library, with regular rotation of titles to sustain interest and cater to diverse reading levels.
Students can select from an assortment of books from their class library
c) Library Programmes
Through reading books, newspapers and magazines, students discuss current events and make meaningful connections to the world around them.
Students engaged in reading and discussion during library sessions
Building Confident Speakers
We create purposeful opportunities for students to express themselves clearly and confidently.
a) Pick-and-Tell
Students develop confidence through structured sharing, learning to speak clearly, listen actively and respect diverse perspectives.
A student confidently presenting during Pick-and-Tell
b) Readers’ Theatre & Live Performances
Students experience how voice, expression and movement bring stories to life, strengthening their speaking and listening skills through performance.
Students watching a live theatrical performance
c) Authentic Public Speaking Experiences
Students design and create their own ice-cream before crafting and delivering persuasive speeches—an engaging, real-world task that builds confidence, creativity and communication skills.
Students preparing their ice cream from scratch
Students presenting persuasive speeches based on their ice-cream creations
Nurturing Thoughtful Writers
Our writing programme develops students into clear, purposeful and reflective writers.
At the lower primary levels, authentic experiences—such as observing the life cycle of a butterfly—provide rich contexts for descriptive writing.
Students observing and documenting the butterfly life cycle
At the upper primary levels, students engage in the full writing process, from planning to drafting and revising. Through feedback and collaboration, they become more independent and reflective writers.
Students collaborating and reviewing one another’s written work
Social Studies
Social Studies plays a vital role in shaping informed and responsible citizens.
Through inquiry-based learning and discussions on real-world issues, students explore topics relevant to their lives and communities. They learn to consider multiple perspectives, think critically and make thoughtful decisions.
Students sharing their group project on the legacies of ancient civilisations and their relevance today
Students also develop an appreciation of Singapore’s values while understanding global connections, fostering empathy and a strong sense of responsibility towards society.
Students learning about different cultural activities during their Social Studies learning journey
Preparing Students for the Future
Through the integration of English Language and Social Studies, students develop essential 21st-century competencies, including communication, collaboration and critical thinking.
These experiences nurture confident communicators and thoughtful citizens who are ready to contribute meaningfully to the community and thrive in an ever-changing world.
Students collaborating in an active and engaging classroom environment