What makes an effective bilingual programme?

Find out at the CIS French Carnaval on 23 Nov!

Learning a second language can open up a world of opportunities. As parents, how can one choose a programme that successfully educates children in becoming bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural global citizens? Dr Xiomara Cruz, Canadian International School’s (CIS) Primary Vice Principal and head of their French-English bilingual programme, shares her insights.

1. Speaking a language without understanding its cultural context has very 

little real-world value. When culture is integrated into learning, students can 

communicate from a place of understanding, not just say or repeat the words. For instance

on International Dot Day, our grade 6 students  learned about the spirit of kindness 

and French art history including the Pointillism technique, before describing a related artwork in French.

2. Purposeful learning experiences can help children better connect with and understand the language. Through hands-on activities like acting in plays, students get to learn beyond the classroom and apply real-world knowledge in authentic settings. One inquiry-based lesson saw grade 5 students read recipe 

instructions and communicate in French, while cooking up a storm at our learning kitchen!

3. Bilingual programmes can develop children holistically. At CIS, bilingual students experience true international education that not just develops their language skills, but also promotes their academic and social emotional development. Recently, our grade 5s produced audio postcards that introduced Singapore’s history and culture in French. They later exchanged the postcards with French-speaking students in France, Lebanon, and Tunisia, building on both their language skills and intercultural awareness.

Learn more about CIS’s bilingual programme at their French Carnaval on 23 November. You will meet Dr Xiomara and her expert team, and join French-inspired family-friendly activities run by their bilingual students, including a French café station and a crêpe tossing game!