English Language & Literature Department

Our Philosophy

At YISS, we seek to develop students to be empathetic and global communicators, critical and discerning readers, and creative inquirers and meaning-makers through English Language and Literature in English. We believe that through the appropriate and accurate use of standard English, appreciation of multiple perspectives and opportunities to express their views, Yusoffians would be able to communicate effectively and sensitively to a global audience. We believe that reading extensively and intentionally would enable Yusoffians to be avid, critical and lifelong readers, broadening their knowledge of the world and sharpening their ability to think critically. We believe that when Yusoffians explore and navigate multiple perspectives and ambiguities in real world contexts, they would be able to creatively synthesise information to co-construct knowledge and thrive in an increasingly complex world. 

The learning of English Language and Literature in English places our students in a better position to make sense of the world, have a greater understanding of who they are and how they can contribute towards the greater good. Equipped with a strong command of the English Language and a deep appreciation for Literature in English, Yusoffians would be able to Think, Learn and Lead Better, and positively influence the world around them.

Teaching and Learning Approaches

YISS’s English Language and Literature Department uses the Parallel Curriculum Model (PCM) as a tool for curriculum planning. PCM promotes differentiation and connections in the classroom, allowing teachers to design lessons that meet the varying readiness levels, interests and passions of students. The Core of the curriculum focuses on language skills and literary concepts which are scaffolded in spiral progression across the students’ education journey in the school. 

The Curriculum of Connections focuses on age-appropriate, broad concepts and themes that help students apply what they have learned from the Core Curriculum. In the Curriculum of Practice, students engage in real-world tasks, allowing them to develop skills as professionals within carefully designed contexts. Lastly, the Curriculum of Identity provides opportunities for students to reflect on their personal views and positions regarding global societal issues.

In the teaching of English Language and Literature, we incorporate the use of metacognition skills to enhance the depth of student engagement across the parallels of the curriculum. By encouraging students to think about their own thinking, metacognition helps them make stronger connections between macro concepts and core content in the Curriculum of Connections. For example, quality questioning, the asking of open-ended and reflective questions, guides students through authentic analysis and interpretation of texts, mirroring the work of literary scholars in the Curriculum of Practice. Finally, this approach enables students to critically examine their own values and perspectives, fostering personal growth and deeper engagement with themes in the Curriculum of Identity.

Key Programmes

Reading Programme

• Learning Oasis

The Learning Oasis, our school’s library, is a vibrant hub where students come together to discover the joy of reading and learning. As the heart of our school's reading programme, it offers a diverse collection of books, digital resources and cozy reading corners that encourage students to explore new genres and ideas. Students are involved in selecting books for the Learning Oasis, giving them ownership of the reading programme while ensuring the collection remains relevant, engaging, and reflective of their interests. The Learning Oasis is more than a resource centre, it is a welcoming space that fosters curiosity, creativity and a strong reading culture across the school.

• YI Reads

Yusoffians read regularly and widely through dedicated reading time during every English Language lesson. Students cultivate the habit of reading by  immersing themselves in a book of their choice in a focused and independent manner. In addition to the collection of novels and non-fiction books available in the Learning Oasis, students are also provided with a diverse range of curated magazines during the year, covering topics from science and technology to current events and pop culture. These initiatives, together with regular book fairs, cater to different interests and ensure that every student finds something engaging to read, fostering a lifelong love for reading and broadening their knowledge across multiple subjects.

Programmes, Workshops and Learning Journeys

·       Nurturing Aspiring Writers

Our students actively participate in local and international writing competitions, embracing opportunities to challenge themselves beyond the classroom. These platforms encourage them to experiment with voice, refine their craft and respond thoughtfully to diverse themes and prompts.

We are proud to have been named the 2025 School of the Year at the Live On Festival Writing Competition — a testament to the collective dedication, creativity and perseverance of our student writers. On the international stage, one of our students attained a prestigious Gold Award in the 2025 Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition. This remarkable accomplishment highlights the calibre of our young writers and their ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with a global audience.

·       Writers’ Talks

As part of our commitment to nurturing thoughtful and articulate readers, we invite authors and emerging writers to share their craft with our students. These Writers’ Talks offer a rare opportunity for students to step beyond the pages of their texts and engage directly with the minds behind the stories.

During these sessions, writers speak candidly about their creative journeys — from the spark of an idea to the discipline of drafting and revision. Students gain insight into the writing process, the challenges of overcoming self-doubt, and the importance of finding one’s unique voice. Many sessions also include interactive Q&A segments, allowing students to pose questions about character development, world-building and the realities of publishing.

• Introduction to Drama Workshop

This workshop invites students to explore the world of performance and storytelling. Through fun, hands-on activities, students learn basic acting techniques, voice modulation and character development. This workshop fosters creativity, boosts confidence and encourages teamwork, deepening appreciation for the literary texts studied during lessons.

• Theatre Learning Journey

We organise regular learning journeys to different theatre productions. Viewing drama productions offers students a powerful experience that combines education and empathy. Witnessing poignant stories of friendship and innocence amidst war (e.g. The Boy in Striped Pyjamas) or relating to themes of self-discovery and independence (e.g. Hard Mode), for instance, encourages deep reflection. Students also bring back their experience to the classroom where they further engage in discussions about humanity, compassion and the consequences of prejudice.