Secondary School Third Languages

[Augmum]

the problem of learning 3rd lang is that after aquiring it, there must be constant use in conversation, otherwise if not put to use, the memory just "fades off". moreover, have heard of many cases of pupils dropping it half way thru.

there’re simply too much workload esp in a IP sch, so not much time is left.

[CMF]

My DD will be in Sec 3 next year. Her 3rd lang is Malay, and she will be continuing with it. Notwithstanding that her workload is v heavy, she has managed well to juggle taking a 3rd lang. The considerations when she chose Malay, were that the opportunities for her to use and practise Malay will be more in S’pore compared to either eg French or German. Another consideration was that Malay was taught once a week in her school itself vs other lang where it was held in the lang centre in Bishan (and if I recall correctly,it was twice a week). Our view was that knowledge of any additional lang is a plus, so it was no disadv to try it out and see how DD can manage, which she has.

[mathsparks]

same reasons I gave for kids having a go at the gep program. If they're selected, it means they've the ability to manage the rigours that come with it. Why give up without even trying.


A 3rd lang doesnt have to be for business/future job opportunities. French is a beautiful language, plus a lot of Eng words are derived from it. Other than for travelling, making friends, being able to scold/suan/surprise ppl, picking up another lang gives another opportunity for kids to develop their passion which need not be confined to academics.

Anyway, applying doesn't mean you'll get it. If there's overwhelming applicants, it's still by t-score. So, if you're not keen, my son is more than happy to be selected. :lol:

I'm already eagerly waiting to parlez un peu français with ah boy.

[mrswongtuition]

It really depends on your child’s interest. Let him/her try out the language by renting some films or simple travel books that teach simple phrases. If your child picks it up easily & shows interest, chances is that they’ll persevere & enjoy the learning.


My senior did German as 3rd language & everyone thought that she was MAD. She even went to Germany during her ‘O’ Level year for 3 months for a school exchange program. But she got distinction & went on to Germany (under scholarship) to get a degree. She’s now at teacher at MOE Language Centre teaching German.

My best friend did Japanese. After she took her ‘O’ Levels, she went on to continue Jap lessons at a private centre to take the exams. Her family often planned holidays to Japan to practise what she has learnt. She’s now working as an air stewardess with JAL.

Language can come in useful in their future work. What’s important is the PASSION for the language. Else, it’ll become a burden more than anything.

P/S: My silly brother is now trying to pick up Japanese due to work. He regretted not taking it up when he was younger. He complains that picking up a new language at his age is terrible.

[karmeleon]

Vikaesh:

I am the same situation. However, can i choose not to take 3rd language at all, because I am afraid it may add to the heavy load of work?

Of course can. We straightaway submitted the confirmation for s1 DSA and \"zero\" selection for 3rd language yesterday online.

I told my boy if he wants to learn 3rd Lang, I'd sent him to the CC to learn. *haha*. I told him that it's better to spend his time on school electives since it would all be in school and don't have to travel to Regional Language Centre! Or even spend time on CCA, better lah.

[mathsparks]

Lucky mine dont need to travel.

[edanson]

Hi Everyone,


Anyone here can advise me : do we need to make our decision immediately. 2 years ago, I remembered that we only decide on the type of third language after the school reopen. Did I remember correctly? So must I do it on line before 2 Dec?

Thank You

[mathsparks]

yes you've to submit your choices by 2 dec. :congrats: to your son. Heard on the forum he's top 12! Well done!

[turquoise]

According to the booklet, the top 10% of PSLE scorers are invited to apply for a foreign language (French, Japanese, German). I’m curious to know what’s the cut off point for the top 10% this year.


Have any students with <250 or <240 received this offer?

Thanks.

[Augmum]

karmeleon:

Of course can. We straightaway submitted the confirmation for s1 DSA and \"zero\" selection for 3rd language yesterday online.

I told my boy if he wants to learn 3rd Lang, I'd sent him to the CC to learn. *haha*. I told him that it's better to spend his time on school electives since it would all be in school and don't have to travel to Regional Language Centre! Or even spend time on CCA, better lah.

yes, as far as 3 rd lang is concern, my gal already said \"no...no\" when she sees her cousin taking french in rgs, travelling all the way to bishan and returning home at abt 8 p.m or so. most of the days, her parents are home earlier than her.

she can take her 3rd lang at her free time even after she left school.

i rather she spend time on something she likes........
she is interested in cooking and baking,
so when she read fr the booklet 2 that DHS offers culinary club as one of the CCA, she yeah for joy..........i thot what happens??? haha