Language and Cultural Studies (LCS) is a core component of the IB Career-related Programme (CP) designed to develop students' multilingual and intercultural capabilities. It is built around personalized inquiry and encourages students to explore their own linguistic and cultural repertoires in meaningful contexts—personal, community, or career-focused.
Student-driven inquiry: Learners choose one of three areas of exploration—Career, Community, or Personal—and set their own goals for language and cultural learning.
Conceptual foundation: The course explores four key concepts—communication, identities, perspectives, and power.
Focus on international-mindedness: LCS fosters empathy, critical thinking, and intercultural understanding.
Flexible learning structure: Minimum of 70 learning hours (30 guided), supported by a learning journal, three formal review points, and reflection tasks.
Inquiry-based approach: Students complete a language and cultural portrait and engage in ongoing, reflective learning tailored to their context and aspirations.
Here is a list of the available language subjects at GESS that can enhance a students LCS journey:
👉 English B HL
👉 French B SL
👉 French B HL
👉 French B SL
👉 Spanish B SL
👉 Spanish B HL
👉 German B SL
👉 German B HL
👉 French ab initio
👉 Spanish ab initio
👉 Mandarin B SL
👉 Mandarin B HL
LCS supports the development of transferable skills and deepens students’ engagement with diverse cultures and languages, aligning closely with the IB learner profile and mission. It also builds strong connections to other CP core components like the Reflective Project, Personal and Professional Skills (PPS), and Community Engagement.
A CP student studying French in Singapore has a unique set of opportunities to enrich their Language Portfolio. Here are some ideas tailored to their context:
French-Speaking Community Events: Singapore has a vibrant French-speaking community. Encourage the student to attend events organized by French cultural institutions like the Alliance Française, which often hosts film screenings, exhibitions, and talks. Participation in such events can provide real-life language practice and cultural exposure.
Language Exchanges or Meetups: Platforms like Meetup.com and community language exchange groups in Singapore offer students a chance to practice French with native speakers. Regular conversations in a social setting can enhance their fluency and confidence.
Volunteer or Internship Opportunities: Some French-speaking companies or organizations in Singapore may offer volunteering or internship roles. Even if the student assists with small tasks, this exposure can provide language practice in a professional context, which is valuable for their portfolio.
French Films and Cultural Festivals: The Singapore International Film Festival and other cultural events often feature French-language films. Students can attend these screenings, reflect on the experience, and discuss any new vocabulary or cultural insights in their portfolio.
Engaging with Online French Content: Since Singapore is multicultural and internet-connected, students can access online resources like French news websites, podcasts, or YouTube channels that cater to Singaporean or Southeast Asian audiences interested in French culture. Reflecting on content that discusses global or local events can broaden their understanding.
Language Practice Apps with a Focus on French Culture: Apps like HelloTalk or Tandem often connect learners with native speakers. A student can set up regular conversations with French-speaking individuals, reflecting on these interactions as evidence of practical language use.
Alliance Française Library and Classes: The Alliance Française in Singapore has a library filled with French-language books, magazines, and media. Borrowing materials or attending their classes for advanced practice can provide diverse learning materials for their portfolio.
Social Media Connections: Following French influencers, brands, or even government pages (like the French embassy in Singapore) on social media can give students a real-time glimpse into French language usage and current events.
Gastronomy and Culinary Workshops: Many French restaurants and bakeries in Singapore occasionally offer workshops on French cuisine. Attending these can add a fun, hands-on cultural element to the portfolio.
Engaging in these activities and reflecting on each experience can significantly enrich their Language Portfolio with real-world practice, cultural insights, and diverse evidence of their language progress.
