• Two Way Immersion (TWI) education (50/50) model

The two-way immersion bilingual model is an educational approach that aims to promote bilingualism and biliteracy among students. In this model, students from two language backgrounds (English and Chinese)  are integrated into the same classroom, with instruction in both languages. The goal is for students to become proficient in both languages while developing a deep understanding of academic content.

Key features of the two-way immersion bilingual model include:

• Balanced language instruction: Both languages are used for instruction to achieve proficiency in both languages.

• Integration of language and content: Academic content is taught in both languages, allowing students to develop language skills while learning subject matter such as Maths, IPC etc.

• Linguistic and cultural diversity: Students from different language backgrounds come together in the same classroom, creating a rich environment for language learning and cultural exchange.

• Collaboration and peer learning: Students support each other in language development with opportunities for peer tutoring and collaborative learning activities.

• To run with alternating language instruction in English and Chinese

The reasons of having the “ Chinese Day” and “ English Day” alternatively:

• Immersion in a language-rich environment ( English/ Chinese): Accelerates language acquisition. Constant exposure to the target language in various contexts enhances listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.

• Authentic Language Use: Alternating language instruction provides authentic opportunities for language use in real-life situations. Students learn to communicate effectively in social, academic, and professional settings, leading to proficiency and confidence in the language.

• Cultural Understanding: this approach exposes students to the culture associated with the target language, fostering cultural understanding, empathy, and appreciation for diversity. This cultural awareness enhances global competence and cross-cultural communication skills.

• Enhanced Academic Performance: Studies have shown that students in this model often outperform their peers in standardised tests, particularly in language arts, mathematics, and other academic subjects. Immersion students develop strong analytical and language skills that transfer to other areas of learning.

• Long-term Language Proficiency: this cultivates long-term language proficiency. By providing sustained exposure to the target language over a whole day, students develop a deep understanding of it and maintain their language skills over time.

We aim to recruit students with diverse backgrounds, comprising Western and Eastern cultures. Additionally, we have the following language proficiency requirements:

1) How may I support my child at home when we don’t speak Chinese?
There are a few suggestions for your reference:

• Provide authentic learning resources, opportunities & experiences

• Creating an environment to support their best learning

• Learn with your children or have them teach you

• Encourage your children to gain confidence

Additionally, we have delegated assistant teachers for both Chinese and English days, and they will support the students with specific needs. 

2) What will my child miss from the Mainstream Programme?
The student will be taught the same curriculum as the Mainstream Programme. The only difference is that the curriculum will be delivered in English and Chinese in the Bilingual Programme. The students will acquire high proficiency in both languages and explore different perspectives from East and West. 

3) How does it work in the curriculum? For example, how will they learn Math in the Bilingual Programme?
The English and Chinese homeroom teachers will collaborate and deliver the Singapore Math curriculum cooperatively. We know that Chinese and Western mathematics education use different methodologies, so our students will explore and gain multiple solutions for Math questions. 

4) How does it work in the curriculum? For example, how will they learn Math in the Bilingual Programme?
The English and Chinese homeroom teachers will collaborate and deliver the Singapore Math curriculum cooperatively. We know that Chinese and Western mathematics education use different methodologies, so our students will explore and gain multiple solutions for Math questions.  

5) What are the differences or highlights of the SJI International Elementary School Bilingual Programme compared to other international schools?
There are different models or expectations for the Bilingual Programme. We aim to offer an intensive Bilingual Programme that allows our students to be Bilingual, Bi-Cultural, and think in two ways.

6) Are there options to move back to the Mainstream Programme if the student is not thriving in the Bilingual Programme?
As part of our ongoing student evaluation, the teachers will make recommendations as to whether a student meets the Bilingual Programme requirements. In the event that a student is not, we will work with the parents to determine the best pathway moving forward.