Is it too late to start enrichment classes for P6 students scoring AL6?

The Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) is the stepping stone to a Secondary school, and hence, P6 students prepare themselves to give it their all. 

Since 2021, PSLE students have been graded based on their individual performance, regardless of how their peers have done. 

Their scores are placed within the scoring bands AL1 to AL8, with AL1 being the highest. In order to help students keep track of their progress from the onset, P5 students are also subjected to this scoring system. 

This has the benefit of getting the students to do a self-introspection as to where they are going with their learning. In the process, many important issues to be addressed come to the forefront, like the pace of learning, grasp of concepts and level of preparedness. 

Since the current scoring system evaluates a pupil’s own ability to make progress, it is only fair that all students step up their efforts to level up their performances as they set off towards the finish line of the Primary school journey.

If students score AL6 as they traverse this journey, it mostly indicates that the lessons in school are insufficient in preparing these students for exams. In such cases, enrichment centres step in to equip them adequately allowing them to garner better results.

Let us figure out
(i) why students fail to score and
(ii) how they can be suitably supported to ramp up their scores:

#Reason 1: Rigorous pace of learning

The concepts taught in schools may be rushed in a scramble to complete the syllabus in preparation for the PSLE. One glove does not fit all since students vary in their pace of learning. While the fast-paced lessons at school are necessary to ensure that the syllabus is finished on time, it is not for everyone and there are students who could get lost or left behind. Unable to keep up with the content, they lose focus.  

#Aid 1: Slower and easier pace of learning

Enrichment classes have the advantage of small-size classrooms and individualised attention from teachers. Both these factors bode well for students who wish to grasp concepts at their own pace. Wherever essential, content is suitably customised to meet the learning requirements of the students. For instance, in a primary creative writing class, various writing elements, which make up a narrative, are broken down into smaller digestible chunks to help students grasp them easily. Students navigate the content at their own pace and ultimately find their footing. Slow and steady – they reach the top!

#Reason 2: Superficial learning

There are occasions when lessons in school do not delve into certain topics sufficiently due to time constraints. Consequently, students do not feel confident about the content, especially when there comes a time to apply these topics during a strenuous exam situation.

#Aid 2: Depth of learning

Enrichment classes often provide additional learning materials such as lesson notes and exercises. The lessons are often structured around the students’ needs. The most important points are highlighted to allow easy and quick understanding. There is greater interaction between tutors and students in the form of discussions and queries since there is hardly any fear of judgement.

In a primary English writing class, for example, important writing skills are highlighted and singled out for special focus. Throughout the writing process, tutors closely monitor students’ grasp of concepts and track their progress. They also offer suggestions to enhance the quality of writing. Students, on their part, are comfortable in asking questions to seek clarity and deepen understanding.

#Reason 3: Inadequate practice

Consistent practice in application of concepts is the final step in closing the learning gaps. A race against time does not allow schools to offer enough opportunities for their students to practise their learnings. Most often, evaluations of unprepared students are not a true reflection of the students’ abilities.

#Aid 3: Practice makes near-perfect

Enrichment classes allocate time in their curriculum for students to explore, experiment and practise independently. In the process, students become competent at analysing and editing their own errors, thus taking responsibility for their learning. Eventually, their confidence shores up by the time they take the exams. In today’s digital world, technology has made it possible for online English writing classes to provide such platforms for students to better themselves with practice.

 

Going by the merits of enrichment classes, it is not too late for P6 students scoring AL6 to seek help from them. 

At Write Edge, several success stories and testimonials show how its students have come a long way. Meticulous lessons and dedicated tutors create a positive learning ambience. It is only a matter of time before students realise their true potential. It is never too late to begin!

If you wish to find out more about the Creative Writing or English Enrichment programs at Write Edge, parents can reach out to us to arrange a trial class to find out more. Write Edge provides English and Writing classes at Kovan, Tampines, Sengkang, Potong Pasir, Bukit Timah and Jurong East.

 

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