We are also passionate about the English language and the power of communication which it brings to all of us, but as with any form of power, it needs to be harnessed effectively so it can consolidate our learning goals. We now have designated areas where the students are able to speak their native tongue and areas where only English is allowed. We want to provide areas where all our students feel represented, supported and ready to learn but also, where the use of English is carefully looked after and protected.
The canteen, the library, the corridors, the reception as well as many other areas around BIS Hanoi have been designated as English Only Areas. Students and teachers are successfully working together so this guideline can be implemented. Recognising, maintaining and looking after our home language, we want to empower communication, internationalism and the globalization of our very own uniqueness and identity.
I would like to invite the entire BIS Hanoi community to participate actively in the promotion of these areas which takes into consideration the needs, interests, and abilities of students. These spaces should be developed further to make language learning more related to the daily life of our students.
By giving the BIS students autonomy to decide on, decorate and evaluate these areas, we are also encouraging them to take responsibility for their own learning as well as monitoring and appraising their own progress.
Parents also can support their children’s language learning by taking up a more active role in helping their children develop good reading habits and enhancing their interest in their prefered reading topics.