English Language and Critical Thinking, and Theory of Knowledge
The English Language and Critical Thinking (Years 1 – 4) and Theory of Knowledge (Years 5 – 6) programmes set the foundation for SOTA students to become:
- Inquisitive learners and critical thinkers who can analyse and evaluate multiple perspectives and text types with a strong sense of empathy and respect
- Effective communicators in the use of standard English Language
- Artistic learners apply what is learned in the classroom to their art forms and vice versa
Through English Language and Critical Thinking (ELCT) lessons, students in Years 1 – 4 will learn to analyse and discuss different perspectives on real-world issues with empathy and respect. They will also learn to communicate their views effectively through various platforms.
ELCT focuses on the development of research skills by guiding students through a structured and progressively challenging series of activities and lessons, enabling them to learn effective research methods.
This culminates in Year 4, where students will write an independent research proposal to help them hone the research skills they will need in their International Baccalaureate (IB) years.
In Years 5 and 6, students take Theory of Knowledge, a core component in the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP). Students are encouraged to examine the nature of knowledge and how knowledge is constructed, while also reflecting on how we come to know what we know in order to demonstrate these understandings in an exhibition and essay.
In Personal and Professional Skills, one of the four core components of the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP), students are taught life skills to help them become critical thinkers and communicators with a deep appreciation for cultural diversity.
Learning Outcomes
- Communicate effectively through different media and text types
- Nurture an interest in global issues in the contexts of groups, society, nations, and global citizenry
- Create empathy and respect for differing viewpoints
- Gain life skills based on an understanding of diverse socio-cultural contexts
- Develop in-depth research and writing skills essential for learning in different disciplines
- Foster intellectual curiosity and a desire for academic discovery while honing critical, creative thinking, and reflective skills
- Develop their collaborative and creative skills through team-based arts-integrated projects on issues studied
- [Theory of Knowledge learning outcome] Explore five different Areas of Knowledge and reflect on the interaction between knowledge and the knower, while appreciating the value of both personal and shared knowledge
Key Programmes
- Interdisciplinary lessons
- Arts-integrated learning through creative projects
- Talent development programmes, including philosophical seminars, English Language speaking and essay-writing competitions, and educational trips
- Public speaking in different contexts and on different platforms
- One-to-one coaching
Teaching Staff
William Davies, Acting Senior Teacher (Inquiry Skills)
Andrea Yew
Lydia Tan
Rathiy Devi D/O Ramanathan
Wong Ping-Loong