English, But Not Really: What Is The Language Arts Subject?

Have you ever glanced at the list of subjects or timetable of a student from Nanyang Girls’ High School, National Junior College, or Temasek Junior College (Secondary) and noticed something peculiar? You might realise that these students don’t study a subject called “English Language.” Instead, they have a subject called Language Arts (LA).

If you’re unfamiliar with Language Arts, you might have a lot of questions. Is it just a fancy name for English? How does it differ from O Level English? And most importantly, how can you help your child if they’re struggling with it?

In this article, we’ll answer these questions and share tips for excelling in Language Arts, a subject unique to some Integrated Programme (IP) schools in Singapore.

What is Language Arts?

Language Arts (LA) is an integrated English curriculum that combines elements of English Language and Literature. Instead of separating these two subjects into distinct classes, LA blends them into a holistic learning experience. Students work on skills like essay writing, reading comprehension, and literature analysis, all within the same subject.

LA is found in the curriculum of a few IP schools, as well as in the lower secondary curriculum of certain schools’ O Level track.

The goal of LA is to develop higher-order thinking skills, such as inference, critical analysis, and argumentation, with the assumption that students already come in with a strong grasp of the English language. Instead of focusing on grammar and vocabulary in isolation, LA encourages students to engage deeply with various types of texts, including news articles, poems, and classical literature.

Unlike conventional English lessons, LA doesn’t usually have a fixed textbook, but students often work with a set literature text each year.

How is Language Arts different from O Level English?

While both subjects aim to improve English proficiency, there are key differences:

• Focus on analysis and critical thinking: LA emphasises higher-order skills like critical thinking, argumentation, and literary analysis.
• Less emphasis on pure language: Unlike O Level English, LA doesn’t typically include sections like editing, oral communication, or listening comprehension. Instead, these skills may be assessed through other mediums like class participation marks or presentations.
• Inclusion of literature texts: LA integrates Literature into its curriculum, focusing on understanding and interpreting texts alongside essay writing and comprehension.

Language Arts is a big leap from primary school English, making it difficult for new secondary school students to understand the demands of the subject. However, the skills emphasised in Language Arts are much more relevant to what student would encounter in General Paper in JC.

What is the format of a Language Arts exam?

The format of Language Arts exams can vary between schools, as each IP school designs its own curriculum. However, most LA exams include:

• Reading Comprehension
• Essay Writing (narrative or argumentative)
• Literature Analysis (based on set texts and/or unseen passages)

Typically, there are no sections for oral, listening comprehension, or editing. However, these skills may still be assessed through continuous assessments that involve presentations and class participation.

It’s also important to note that some schools assign double weightage to Language Arts, making it a critical subject that can significantly affect a student’s overall grade.

Where can you find help for Language Arts?

Because LA doesn’t follow the O Level syllabus, finding relevant resources can be challenging. General O Level English tuition may not address the unique needs of LA students, as the focus will be on irrelevant exam formats and content.

Instead, students and parents often turn to private tutors who specialise in LA or Literature. These tutors are familiar with the skills required for LA and can customise lessons to suit the student’s specific needs and school curriculum.

How can Future Academy tutors help with LA?

At Future Academy, we specialise in tuition for IP students and have a team of expert tutors experienced in teaching Language Arts and IP English tuition.

Here’s how we support LA students:

• Coaching by experienced tutors: Our tutors understand the key differences between O Level English and IP English, allowing them to focus on the relevant skills and resources that will best benefit IP students.
• Skills development: We focus on sharpening essential skills like essay writing, comprehension, and literary analysis through targeted practice and personalised feedback.
• Broadening knowledge: To help students excel in comprehension and literature analysis, we engage them in thought-provoking class discussions, exposing them to a wide range of texts and current affairs.

Conclusion

Language Arts is a unique and challenging subject that demands more than just proficiency in English. By integrating English Language and Literature, it equips students with the critical thinking and analytical skills needed for academic success and beyond.

If your child is struggling with LA or simply wants to excel, having the right guidance can make all the difference. At Future Academy, our specialised IP tutors are here to provide customised support and help students master the skills they need to shine in Language Arts.

Let us partner with you on your educational journey—because every student deserves the best chance to succeed!

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