How learners struggling with Chinese can benefit from the DAS Chinese Programme
In the ever-evolving landscape of education, the Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS) has been at the forefront of creating inclusive initiatives to support students facing learning challenges. The DAS Chinese Programme is open to all students who encounter difficulties in their learning journey, whether they have a formal diagnosis or not. This approach recognises that learners, who face challenges, may not always fit neatly into a specific diagnosis but would still benefit from tailored support.
The DAS Chinese Programme is meticulously designed to empower learners who are struggling in their quest to conquer the Chinese language. The DAS Chinese curriculum is developed based on the Orton-Gillingham (OG) approach. The approach incorporates structured language instruction with tailored strategies that are beneficial for all learners, to help them decode and learn Chinese more effectively.
This programme places emphasis on the following key aspects to enhance efficiency and foster a genuine interest in the language
- Common Vocabulary and Sentence Structure:
By focusing on common vocabulary and sentence structure, the DAS Chinese Programme bolsters the learner’s expressiveness in Chinese. - Word Recognition Strategies:
Instruction in word recognition strategies enhances the learner’s ability to recognise Chinese characters effectively. - Morphological Awareness:
This aspect of the program helps expand the learner’s vocabulary network, fostering a deeper understanding of the language’s structure and roots. - Reading Comprehension and Writing Strategies:
Instruction in reading comprehension and writing strategies equips learners with the tools they need to excel in higher-order literacy skills.
The OG approach creates a positive and conducive learning environment for all students. This approach is characterised by several essential elements:
Diagnostic and Prescriptive: Profiling and informal assessments help tailor the learning experience to the individual needs of each student, ensuring they receive the most appropriate support.
Language-Based: The programme focuses on teaching language rules, enabling students to read and write in Chinese with a solid understanding of linguistic principles.
Cognitive: Students are encouraged to think critically about their learning, understand the reasons behind each aspect, and apply these strategies to develop their reading, spelling, and writing skills.
Emotionally Sound: Learning is tailored to the student’s level of ability, providing an appropriate level of challenge while fostering a positive emotional environment.
Simultaneously Multisensory: The programme engages multiple learning pathways, incorporating visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and tactile elements to enhance understanding.
Structured, Sequential, and Cumulative: Skills are introduced progressively, with regular reviews to reinforce previous learning. This approach ensures students build a strong foundation before advancing to more complex language skills.
In conclusion, the DAS Chinese Programme is uniquely designed for all learners who are struggling with Chinese. The programme offers tailored support and holistic strategies to help every learner overcome their learning challenges and thrive.
