In a groundbreaking move, the draft Kerala Curriculum Framework (KCF) for primary school education places significant emphasis on English language proficiency.
The draft asserts that students should possess the ability to communicate fluently and adeptly in English, employing it across various facets of life. It underscores the imperative for children to acquire comprehensive English language skills, encompassing understanding, speaking, reading, and writing, right from the primary level. The classroom environment should be conducive to creating natural and contextual situations that facilitate this objective.
For students in Classes I and II, English language acquisition should be facilitated through diverse activities. Classrooms must transform into dynamic spaces where students are regularly exposed to English, allowing them to express themselves confidently. This immersive experience can be fostered through peer interactions and engagement with teachers. Up until Class V, classrooms should abound in opportunities for students to engage with English in a joyful and stimulating atmosphere, encompassing listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
Upon entering Class VI, pedagogical approaches should evolve to enable students not only to engage with the language across these four domains but also to express themselves creatively and independently.
At the secondary level, students should possess the proficiency to communicate effectively and confidently in English, while also participating in language activities that stimulate higher-order thinking skills. The curriculum should provide avenues for literary appreciation, critical analysis, unencumbered translation, and autonomous composition to empower students in mastering the language. Furthermore, students should be introduced to English literature from diverse global sources, including Indian English literature.
Maintaining a strong commitment to the foundation built on mother tongue proficiency, the draft advocates a scientific progression toward the study of additional languages. It underscores the amalgamation of modern technology, the creative potential offered by the digital era, activities fostering creativity, and the enjoyable facets of language learning to enhance language studies.
Special attention is directed toward the mother tongue of tribal communities and their cultural heritage in language education. Those acquainted with tribal languages should utilize them for communication.
The draft underscores the significance of offering opportunities for preschool and early primary school education in local languages.
For further updates and detailed information on the draft Kerala Curriculum Framework (KCF), kindly refer to The Hindu’s official news platform.
