OWIS Language Programme
At OWIS, we pride ourselves on the fact that we offer a multi-cultural environment for our students.
As an international school, many of our students hail from countries around the globe. Naturally, many of our students speak another language in addition to English. We have developed a language programme that allows students to immerse themselves in a new language while simultaneously learning about the culture of the people who speak that language.
Our authentic language instruction is designed to allow students to become fluent in a language other than their native tongue. We believe that by speaking another language effectively, and by learning how to write and communicate using that language, students will be well-prepared for success in an increasingly global economy.
Languages at One World International School
Our multilingual approach at OWIS helps students become confident, internationally-minded learners who can navigate an increasingly globalised world. By offering Chinese, French, Japanese and Spanish, we provide students with the opportunity to connect with diverse cultures, enhance their personal and academic growth, and open doors to future global opportunities.
Offered as a language option for all grades, students develop strong literacy, communication, and cultural understanding in our Chinese lessons. By the time they graduate, they are capable of advanced conversation and reading comprehension in the language.
French learning begins early, nurturing curiosity and confidence in communication throughout Primary and Secondary School. Through a progressive programme, students grow into articulate learners who can converse fluently and comprehend authentic texts by the time they graduate.
Spanish classes in Secondary School (from Grade 6 to Grade 12) provide opportunities to build fluency in speaking, reading, and writing, while fostering awareness of Spanish-speaking cultures and societies.
In Primary School, students explore Japanese language at the mother tongue level through age-appropriate lessons. IBDP students have the opportunity to pursue Japanese at Language A level for in-depth study (currently only at OWIS Digital Campus).
Learning Approach in our Language Programme at OWIS
Our language programmes are designed to cultivate fluency, literacy, and cultural understanding:
- Early Childhood & Primary: Children engage in play-based and inquiry-led learning, developing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills through age-appropriate, engaging activities.
- Secondary & IBDP: Students build academic rigour and linguistic depth through structured lessons and literature study. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, expression, and cultural context, enabling learners to communicate effectively in multiple languages.
Across all stages, students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning, explore language creatively, and make meaningful connections between language and the world around them.
Other key features of our language programmes include:
- Cultural immersion: Students participate in festivals, celebrations, and projects that bring language learning to life.
Pathways for advanced learners: Our programmes prepare students for higher-level study in IBDP or external language qualifications, supporting academic and career ambitions.
International School Mandarin Studies
At OWIS, students have the opportunity to learn Mandarin as a second language. Mandarin is the predominant language spoken in China and also the second language of our host country, Singapore, which is one of the largest and fastest-growing economies in the world. Our Mandarin Studies programme includes the following elements:
Oral Communication Skill Development
For many, the first step in learning a new language is understanding how to speak that language out loud. Fortunately, young children are able to acquire oral language skills much faster than adults, which is why we begin our authentic language instruction as part of the early childhood and primary years programmes at One World International School Singapore. It’s important to note that oral communication skill development at OWIS goes beyond memorising words and phrases. The goal is to help students become fluent in the language through dynamic activities, such as storytelling, games, songs and rhymes. Students quickly become confident when learning Mandarin and other languages, and they are unafraid to showcase their new language development skills.
Reading Comprehension and Writing Skill Development
The authentic language instruction in the early childhood and primary years programmes provides students with a solid foundation of oral communication skills, which leads to an opportunity to dive into reading comprehension and writing skill development. In the secondary IGCSE programme, students are able to begin advanced studies of Mandarin. They are able to apply their oral language skills to the written word. Their instruction in Mandarin goes beyond simply speaking to one another, and extends into reading and writing the language in the classroom setting. This additional level of instruction allows Secondary School students at OWIS Singapore to be uniquely prepared for professional life in a global economy.
Cultural Awareness
Learning a language and developing an appreciation for the culture of the people who speak that language go hand-in-hand. At OWIS Singapore, we incorporate cultural awareness into every aspect of our authentic language instruction. Students in the early childhood, primary years and secondary programmes have an opportunity to participate in cultural and linguistic events. These activities give students an opportunity to apply their language skills in a conversational setting while simultaneously learning more about the culture of the Chinese people. From celebrating the Chinese New Year to hosting an International Day, OWIS Singapore makes cultural immersion a high priority.
Multiple-Language Curriculum
Whilst we are committed that all students at OWIS study Mandarin we understand that children who transition from other schools and educational backgrounds may wish to continue with the second language they have been learning. We therefore offer French and Spanish CIAE IGCSE in addition to Mandarin and our International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme students have the option to take these languages at the DP level.
Why Language Acquisition Matters at OWIS
Develops cognitive and social skills
Supports success in our academic pathway
Enhances global opportunities
Prepares students to thrive in a multicultural and multilingual world
OWIS Learning Programmes
Music Programme
Find out how our students gain a solid foundation in music and how we incorporate music theory and music appreciation in our curriculum.
Sports Programme
Explore our sports curriculum and find out how we support and prepare your child for both individual and team sports.
Outdoor Learning
Discover how we extend the learning experience for your child beyond the classroom walls while allowing for a mental and physical break during the day.
Arts Programme
Understand how our Arts Programme uses the elements of visual, creative and performing arts to give your child an appreciation of the benefits of artistic expression.