Mother Tongue Language Department

At East Spring Primary School, we believe in nurturing future-ready students who are confident users of their Mother Tongue Languages. Our programme develops your child's ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and connect globally.

Core Programme- Making MTL Comes Alive

At East Spring Primary School, we make learning Mother Tongue Languages exciting and meaningful for our students! Being bilingual opens doors to rich cultural experiences and amazing opportunities in Singapore and beyond.

Watch your child flourish as they:

• Express themselves confidently in their Mother Tongue

• Connect with their cultural roots through engaging stories and activities

• Engage in real-world conversations

• Discover the joy of language through real-life experiences

We bring language to life both inside and outside our classrooms. Whether it's through storytelling sessions, cultural festivals, or digital learning activities, your child will develop a natural love for their Mother Tongue that stays with them for life.

 Higher Mother Tongue Programme

Higher Chinese Language (P3-P6), Higher Malay and Tamil Language (P5-P6)

For students who show strong language abilities, our HMTL programme offers:

• Advanced language skills development

• Creative writing and presentation opportunities

• Cultural appreciation through literature

• Leadership opportunities in language-related projects

Support Programme for MTL learners (P3- P4)

We provide targeted support through:

• Differentiated Instructions

• Interactive hands-on activities

• Practical language applications

• Building strong speaking and reading foundations

Through these programmes, our students develop not just language skills, but also the confidence and capabilities needed for today's interconnected world.

Programmes Highlights

• Celebrating Our Cultural Heritage

Every year, our MTL Fortnight and Cultural camp turn learning into an adventure! Throughout their six years with us, the students will discover their heritage through fun activities like making traditional snacks, playing cultural games, and joining festive performances. It's where culture comes alive and Mother Tongue becomes a joy to learn!

During this special programmes, students:

• Discover traditional delicacies and their cultural significance
• Experience customs through hands-on activities
• Learn traditional arts and crafts
• Participate in cultural performances
• Explore heritage through interactive games

These joyful experiences create lasting memories and a natural love for their Mother Tongue that stays with them long after their primary school years. At East Spring, we believe every cultural moment is a stepping stone to becoming a confident bilingual learner!

A Cultural Journey Like No Other!

Discovering Chinese Heritage

From crafting Ang Ku Kueh in Primary 1 to savouring Chinese tea in Primary 6, our students experience the richness of Chinese culture through age-appropriate activities. Each year unveils new adventures - from energetic Wushu and creative bean art to rhythmic drumming and dramatic Chinese Opera. It's where tradition meets fun, making Chinese language and culture come alive!

Journey Through Malay Culture

From sharing a traditional Nasi Ambeng feast in Primary 1 to creating melodious angklung music in Primary 6, our students experience the richness of Malay culture through engaging activities. Each year brings new discoveries - from the graceful movements of Silat to the artistic expression of Batik, from the lively rhythms of Dikir Barat to the enchanting stories of Wayang Kulit. Here's where tradition meets joy in learning!

Celebrating Indian Traditions

From the joyful rhythms of Kolattam dance in the early years to the dynamic movements of Silambattam in upper primary, our students experience the richness of Indian heritage through engaging activities. Whether it's dancing to traditional beats, crafting beautiful baskets, or mastering martial arts, each experience brings Indian culture and language to life in meaningful ways!  

·         Bringing Heritage to Life: Our MTL Cultural Wall
Step into a world of tradition at our vibrant MTL Cultural Wall! This interactive space features charming 3D replicas of traditional shophouses - a glimpse into the shared heritage of our Chinese, Malay and Indian communities. This interactive space showcases our students' work and encourages them to share their cultural discoveries, making it a vibrant hub where tradition meets modern learning!

·         Learning Without Walls: Our MTL Outdoor Adventures

MTL learning comes alive beyond our classroom walls! Our department believes that language learning happens everywhere - in our neighbourhoods, gardens, and even at the zoo. Through carefully designed outdoor experiences, our students discover how Mother Tongue Languages connect to their daily lives.

Our exciting outdoor programme includes:

• Primary 1: Exploring My Neighbourhood

Students use their language skills to discover and describe their community surroundings

• Primary 2: Growing at My Vegetable Farm

Hands-on gardening experiences teach students new vocabulary while nurturing green thumbs

• Primary 3: Adventures at Singapore Zoo

Students learn to describe animals and their habitats in their Mother Tongue

During these outdoor lessons, our students:

• Work together to solve real-world challenges

• Practice map-reading and navigation skills

• Make decisions as a team

• Apply language skills in authentic situations

• Connect textbook learning to real-life experiences

These meaningful outdoor adventures show our students that Mother Tongue Languages are living languages, vital and valuable in our everyday world. Through these experiences, they discover that learning opportunities are everywhere!

• Primary One – Exploring My Neighbourhood

• Primary Two – Growing at My Vegetable Farm

Primary Three – Adventures at Singapore Zoo