I think learning a foreign language should be an option,
especially for those linguistically inclined.
Instead of the current elitist policy of letting of a small
selected SAP schools take foreign language, those with flair and
command of language, regardless of school, should be encouraged to
take one.
As for learning English, I think writing courses should be made
compulsory at the undergraduate level. Many universities teach
writing in first year, but in Singapore, it is reserved for a small
group of elite scholars programme.
Early at O levels, students should be encouraged to write on
subjects that interest them.
If you compare the UK and Singapore GCE "O" level English, UK
has an emphasis on writing skills. The British do not do long
comprehesion passages like Singapore.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/english/
Reading
non-fiction texts
(Paper 1,
Section A)
Writing to
argue, persuade and advise
(Paper 1,
Section B)
Poems from
different cultures
(Paper 2,
Section A)
For Pre-1914 and
Post-1914 English poetry, see GCSE Bitesize English
Literature
Writing to
inform, explain and describe
Comparing our syllabus with the British, a cynic may just think
the govt deliberately cripple the writing skills of the masses to
make them focus on acquiring technical skills. Writing,a skill
which can influence the masses, should be a skill reserved for a
small group of elite to control the masses.
