FAQs on English Medium (Bilingual) Sections in Government Schools
A. General Understanding
1. What is meant by “bilingual medium”?
Bilingual medium refers to teaching where both English and the child’s home language (such as Kannada) are used strategically. The home language supports understanding, while English is gradually introduced for communication and learning.
2. Why has the government introduced English medium (bilingual) sections in government schools?
The government introduced bilingual sections to:
Meet parental demand for quality English education
Reduce educational inequalities
Strengthen government schools
Improve enrolment and learning outcomes
3. Does bilingual education mean teaching only in English?
No. Bilingual education uses both English and the home language effectively. The focus is on concept clarity first, while English proficiency develops gradually. Teachers use the home language as a bridge for better understanding.
B. Classroom Practices
4. What textbooks are used in bilingual sections?
| Class | Subject | Textbook |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | English | Mridang (Part 1 & 2) |
| 1 | Maths | Joyful Mathematics (Part 1 & 2) |
| 1 | EVS | Environmental Studies |
| 1 | Kannada | Savi Kannada (Part 1 & 2) |
| 2 | English | Mridang (Part 1 & 2) |
| 2 | Maths | Joyful Mathematics (Part 1 & 2) |
| 2 | EVS | Environmental Studies (Part 1 & 2) |
| 2 | Kannada | Savi Kannada (Part 1 & 2) |
| 3 | English | Santoor (Part 1 & 2) |
| 3 | Maths | Maths Mela (Part 1 & 2) |
| 3 | EVS | Environmental Studies (Part 1 & 2) |
| 3 | Kannada | Savi Kannada (Part 1 & 2) |
| 4 | English | Santoor (Part 1 & 2) |
| 4 | Maths | Maths Mela (Part 1 & 2) |
| 4 | EVS | Environmental Studies (Part 1 & 2) |
| 4 | Kannada | Savi Kannada (Part 1 & 2) |
| 5 | English | Santoor (Part 1 & 2) |
| 5 | Maths | Maths Mela (Part 1 & 2) |
| 5 | EVS | Environmental Studies (Part 1 & 2) |
| 5 | Kannada | Siri Kannada (Part 1 & 2) |
5. Which is the first language in English medium sections?
Kannada is the first language in English medium (bilingual) sections. In Urdu schools, Urdu is the first language. English is treated as the second language.
6. How can teachers help students who do not understand English?
Teachers can:
Use the home language for explanations Use visuals, gestures and TPR (Total Physical Response) Use simple and repetitive English phrases Encourage peer support.
| Class | Activity | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vidya Pravesh | 40 Days |
| 2 | EMTTP Transitional Activities | 30 Days |
| 3 | EMTTP Transitional Activities | 30 Days |
| 4 | Bridge Course | 16 Days |
| 5 | Bridge Course | 16 Days |
8. How can teachers create a language-rich classroom?
Teachers should:
▪️Display word walls, charts and pictures
▪️Use songs, stories and rhymes
▪️Encourage student interaction
▪️Create a print-rich environment
▪️Provide reading materials
▪️Include English in daily routines
▪️Conduct bilingual assemblies and festivals
9. How can teachers reduce students’ fear of English?
Teachers can:
▪️Encourage participation without fear
▪️Accept responses in home languages
▪️Use songs, rhymes and games
▪️Appreciate effort more than accuracy
10. Should grammar be taught separately at the primary level?
No. Grammar should not be taught in isolation. It should develop naturally through meaningful communication and classroom activities.
C. Teaching and Learning
11. How can teachers balance concept learning and language learning?
Teachers should focus on concept understanding in subjects like Maths and EVS while integrating language learning through Language Across Curriculum (LAC).
12. What if students respond in their mother tongue?
This is acceptable. Teachers should gradually help students express the same ideas in English.
D. Assessment
13. Can students answer in their home language during assessment?
Yes, to some extent. Students may respond in English, their home language or a mix of both. The focus should remain on understanding, especially in lower classes where oral assessment is important. Question papers can also be bilingual.
E. Teachers and Training
14. What is EMTTP and why is it important?
▪️EMTTP (English Medium
Teachers’ Training Programme) is a training programme developed by RIESI and DSERT to help teachers improve confidence, English proficiency and bilingual teaching practices.
15. How can teachers improve their English proficiency?
Teachers can:
▪️Practice classroom English daily
▪️Speak in English with colleagues
▪️Listen to audio and video resources
▪️Read simple English materials regularly
F. School and System Level
16. What is the role of the headteacher?
Headteachers should:
▪️Support and guide teachers
▪️Observe classrooms and provide feedback
▪️Review lesson plans
▪️Promote teacher collaboration
▪️Engage with parents and the community
17. What is the role of CRPs, BRPs and BEOs?
They should:
▪️Visit schools and mentor teachers
▪️Provide academic support
▪️Monitor implementation
▪️Conduct review meetings
Involve EMTTP resource persons in demonstrations and sharing sessions
18. What is the most important principle of bilingual education?
Children learn best when they understand. Language should support learning, not become a barrier.
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