Textbooks, Curriculum, Syllabus and Tests
Who should take
The “Happy Companion” course is specifically designed for primary school students in Singapore, suitable for all those who wish to improve their Chinese language proficiency. Whether preparing for the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) or simply interested in Chinese culture, students can benefit from this course. It is particularly ideal for students aiming to systematically enhance their language skills and gain a deeper understanding of the cultural context of the Chinese language.
Curriculum Overview
The “Happy Companion” textbooks are published by the Curriculum Planning and Development Division of the Ministry of Education in Singapore. Since its comprehensive revision in 2016, the series has been renamed into two versions: “Primary Advanced Chinese” and “Primary Chinese,”catering to different learning levels. The curriculum covers grades one through six and aims to meet diverse academic needs through tiered teaching strategies. This set of textbooks focuses not only on developing language skills but also emphasizes enhancing cultural literacy.
Learning Content
Listening: Enhance listening comprehension through audio materials, including stories, dialogues, and lectures. Speaking: Improve oral expression through reading aloud, discussions, and presentations, emphasizing clear articulation and accurate pronunciation. Reading: Analyze texts from the textbooks, including classical literature, modern prose, and poetry, learning how to interpret themes, characters, and cultural contexts. Writing: Practice writing skills through composing essays, analytical papers, and creative writing, using advanced vocabulary and grammatical structures. Cultural Studies: Gain insights into Chinese history, literature, and philosophy to deepen understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture.
Learning Goal
Upon completing the “Happy Companion” course, students will be able to: Master the four basic language skills—listening, speaking, reading, and writing—up to the standards of the Singapore Primary Chinese curriculum. Analyze and evaluate complex texts, forming insightful interpretations and arguments. Communicate confidently in Mandarin, showcasing a deep understanding of Chinese culture. Apply critical thinking and independent learning skills to tackle language challenges. Be well-prepared for the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) or other standardized tests, demonstrating high levels of language ability and academic rigor.
