Language Program
Language, both first and second language, is essential in a global society. We value the culture and language of our host country, China, and offer Mandarin to students in all grade levels. In addition, we offer extensive support in English as an Additional Language (EAL) for our students who seek to grow their English speaking, listening, reading, and written language.
Primary
EAL Support
EAL is a language support program for students who are developing English proficiency. EAL teachers work alongside classroom teachers to support students within a content-based program, helping them access grade-level learning while building their academic English skills. Support is designed to be flexible and responsive to each student’s needs, and may include small-group instruction, in-class support, and targeted language development.
Chinese Program
The Chinese language curriculum at AXIS is based on the compulsory education guidelines set by the Ministry of Education, incorporating core content from the Ministry's official textbooks, while integrating the principles of the IB PYP framework and employing an inquiry-based teaching approach. Through student-centered inquiry activities, the course aims to spark students' interest in learning, guide them to actively construct knowledge, and foster conceptual understanding. Additionally, the curriculum emphasizes the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, while focusing on communication, collaboration, and creativity. This helps students grow into confident, reflective learners with a deep understanding and appreciation of the rich cultural essence of the Chinese language.
CAL (Chinese as an Additional Language)
CAL is a language program at AXIS designed for students learning Chinese as an additional language. The curriculum develops listening, speaking, reading, and writing through structured and contextualized learning, with an emphasis on practical communication and cultural understanding. Students build language proficiency step by step through meaningful tasks and real-life applications, enabling them to use Chinese with confidence in academic and everyday settings. In addition, the CAL program also supports heritage learners—students with Chinese cultural or family backgrounds who may have oral proficiency but require further development in reading and writing. The program provides targeted support to strengthen literacy while maintaining students’ connection to the Chinese language and culture
Secondary
EAL Program
EAL teachers support students through a mainstream content-based program. Teachers at AXIS are EAL specialists. We ensure that students who are still acquiring English as an academic language have the necessary scaffolds to support content-area learning
English Immersion Program
This program is designed to elevate students' proficiency in English through an intensive and focused curriculum, which provides a personalized learning experience for students. The curriculum design focuses on the practical use of language in real-life situations, effective communication, vocabulary and language use, as well as understanding of the world around us.
Chinese Program
The Chinese language curriculum at AXIS Secondary School is based on the compulsory education guidelines set by the Ministry of Education, incorporating core content from the official textbooks while adopting a concept-based and inquiry-driven approach to learning. The program emphasizes advanced literacy, critical thinking, and effective communication, helping students develop strong academic Chinese and a deeper understanding of Chinese culture. The curriculum provides a clear pathway toward higher levels of proficiency, and students who meet the required standard may take advanced coursework, including preparation for the AP Chinese Language and Culture examination, as part of the school’s commitment to supporting high levels of bilingual and academic achievement.
CAL (Chinese as an Additional Language)
CAL is a language program at AXIS designed for students learning Chinese as an additional language. The curriculum develops listening, speaking, reading, and writing through structured and contextualized learning, with an emphasis on practical communication and cultural understanding. Students build language proficiency step by step through meaningful tasks and real-life applications, enabling them to use Chinese with confidence in academic and everyday settings. In addition, the CAL program also supports heritage learners—students with Chinese cultural or family backgrounds who may have oral proficiency but require further development in reading and writing. The program provides targeted support to strengthen literacy while maintaining students’ connection to the Chinese language and culture.
