Languages at KIS
English as an Additional Language
The English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme has been developed to help non-native English speakers attain a high level of English proficiency in order to access the curriculum, interact with one other, and participate to the fullest extent possible in school life. Students receive EAL support according to their individual needs. This is provided during the regular school day, either in the classroom (Primary School only) or by individual or small group support (or a combination of both.)
Students in Secondary School must have a certain level of competency in English in order to be successful with the KIS Middle Years Programme and be fully prepared to work toward the IB Diploma. Students who enter KIS from Grade 6 and up who require English support will enter an EAL programme designed according to their English language proficiency. They will not study English, Humanities and Science until such time as they are able to participate fully in these classes without support. Other subject areas such as Math, Thai Studies, Design, Physical Education, the Arts, and Advisory will take place within the mainstream classroom. Students must complete the EAL programme by the end of the 9th grade in order to be prepared for the demands of the Diploma Programme. Please note that students will only be admitted to KIS if they are expected to be fully mainstreamed by the end of Grade 9.
For Early Years students who are not yet proficient in English, language acquisition occurs through language immersion; organized and spontaneous play and group activities help develop comprehension skills and establish a more extensive vocabulary, to support immersion in the classroom.
Since language skills at all levels are key to accessing the curriculum, KIS has developed extensive strategies, curriculums and procedures to ensure that language is a focus in all learning areas across the school.
Thai Language Programmes
The Thai Language programme supports the mother tongue of our host country students, and together with Thai Studies meets the Thai Ministry of Education approved language and culture curriculum. All Thai students are required by law to participate in this programme throughout their school years. For Secondary School Thai students who are unable to participate in this programme (where Thai is not a mother tongue - often due to having lived overseas), Thai B is available upon request. In the Primary School, students join the Thai as an Additional Language Programme. Likewise, Non-Thai Students who make Thailand their home and can speak Thai fluently may be assessed and join the Thai Language Programme.
Non - Thai Students also follow a Thai-Studies Course
The Thai as an Additional Language (TAL) programme has been developed specifically for Primary School students with native languages other than Thai. It provides learners with an insight into the unique language and culture of our host country.