English as an Additional Language (EAL) at MIS

As we conclude another successful academic year at Medan Independent School, I am pleased to share the continued growth and progress of our English as an Additional Language (EAL) program and my thanks go out to the Specialist EAL team who have made this all possible.

Since the rollout of our EAL Framework in 2024, based on the internationally recognised Bell Foundation model, our students have made strong strides across all four language strands: Listening, Speaking, Reading and Viewing, and Writing. Using five progressive language bands (A–E), our team has supported students with tailored strategies, such as sentence building games, time conjunctions, and descriptive vocabulary development. With Individual Learning Plans (ILPs) in place and integrated support from classroom and subject teachers, students are gaining the language tools needed to confidently access the curriculum. 

Throughout this year, our assessments—aligned with the Bell descriptors—have helped us track student progress with clarity. In the upcoming school year, parents can expect even greater refinement in our provision, including:

• Enhanced ILPs for identified groups (e.g., Malaysian and multilingual learners)
• Expanded writing and speaking competitions, including a “Pen Licence” initiative to promote fluency and handwriting
• A whole-school collaboration model to promote inclusive language learning across subjects
• Ongoing preparation toward our Language for Results International (ALFRI) accreditation

However, more now needs to be done…

How Parents Can Help at Home
We believe that strong home-school partnerships are essential for multilingual success. Here are a few simple strategies to support your child’s language development throughout the Summer break and into the next academic year:

• Encourage the home language, become a “soundboard” for your child to freely speak. A strong foundation in the first language supports English acquisition.
• Read together. Dual-language books and shared storytelling (in any language) build vocabulary and comprehension.
• Discuss daily routines. Use sequencing language like “first,” “then,” and “finally” when talking about the day.
• Celebrate cultural identity. Encourage children to share their culture, food, and traditions—it builds confidence and communication.

EAL success is not just about speaking English—it’s about understanding, expressing, and belonging. Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to another enriching year ahead.