Language learning, a way of exploring the world

Language is a tool for communication and a way of exploring the world. Language learning is not limited to specific languages, but is based on the logic of learning a language, enriching language skills by reaching out to the other areas and thus better understanding global culture. The language & literature team at LYBS High School – English Division comes from the University of Pennsylvania, Fudan University, the University of Nottingham, Shanghai International Studies University, Northeastern University, and other outstanding universities with exten-sive teaching experience.

Students at LYBS High School – English Division develop their language skills through ESL and language & litera-ture subjects. Through the combined efforts of Chinese and foreign teachers, students are able to improve their academic performance and abilities through immersion in the language environment.

As English teacher Du Yu says, "English is not only a language skill for students, but also provides a mindset of thinking, another key for students to perceive the world."

Diversified language programs

English learning is particularly important as is a global language. At LYBS High School – English Division, language subjects are offered in English as Second Language (ESL), English Literature (ELL) and the IB DP Language A and Language B framework. The diverse language programs help students at the high school level to be prepared for future study in the U.S., U.K. or Canada, regardless of the pathway.

At LYBS, most subjects are taught in English. The ESL program focuses on the development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, as well as vocabulary and grammar to build a foundation for other subjects. In contrast to the ESL courses, the English Literature courses focus on reading and textual analysis of novels and poems in English, and require a higher level of student mastery. In the LYBS High School – English Division IB DP program framework, language learning is divided into two categories: Language A (native language) and Language B (second language).

As for the importance of English language learning, Chen Tianfeng, ESL coordinator and ESL teacher at LYBS High School – English Division, said, "English language is the cornerstone of learning for students and an important channel for them to understand the world and articulate themselves. help students complete standardized tests, but also to expand their horizons and develop them into adept lifelong learners."

Classes focus on student involvement and interaction, using questions to stimulate their thinking and participation in the classroom. In addition to emphasizing the learning and accumulation of language knowledge, Mr. Chen Tianfeng also often encourages students to apply what they learn, exercise logical thinking, express their opinions and boldly elaborate by holding class presentations and other means.

Professional and experienced faculty team

Educators at LYBS High School – English Division have a wealth of teaching experience. The team features members with a Master's degree in TESOL English Education from the University of Pennsylvania, a Master's degree in Chinese and English Translation and Interpretation from the University of Nottingham, and a TKT Cambridge certification. Each teacher has their own personal strengths and unique teaching methods.

How does teaching English at LYBS differ from the traditional English teaching models? In response to this question, English Language Arts teacher Ciarán ENGLISH stated we:

- Empower learners and develop their communication skills in order to promote interaction in the English classroom.

- Develop the ability to think independently. Independent thinking means taking a dialectical approach to what you see and hear, and questioning information and assumptions.

- Connects English language learning to students' interests, their lives and what is happening in the real world. This exposes students to interesting material as a way to support their language learning even more.

English as a language is the foundation of all subjects for LYBS students, and as a communication tool, students must be proficient in it in order to be fully prepared for their future study abroad.

“Asthe international language of communication, English is SO important for students who wish to study abroad and have a more global mindset. We use a variety of PPT's, projects, close-reading activities, and group/individual assignments to demonstrate and showunderstanding of the main ideas, supporting details, and themes of novels,stories, and other texts.” Teacher Kyle Wisswell said.

In addition, new IB DP language subjects at LYBS High School – English Division has a strong faculty to support the students.

Ms. Liliana WORTH, PhD of English from Jesus College of University of Oxford; Master of Studies of Medieval Studies with Distinction from Wadham College of University of Oxford；BA of Classics and Modern Languages, First Class from St Hugh’s College of University of Oxford who is fluent in nine languages and was a graduate of the IB Diploma Program at Malvern College, Oxford with first-hand experience of a well-rounded global education, crediting her extensive academic achievements to the solid foundation the IB Diploma has given her.

Prior to joining LYBS, Dr. Worth taught English, Latin, French, German and Spanish at schools and universities in Münster, Beijing, Shenzhen and Hong Kong, and she gained experience in educational technology through the development of online learning courses in English and Chinese. A passionate translator and linguist, Dr. WORTH is now learning her ninth language, and English versions of some of her translations of Mandarin and French works have been published in the UK and China.

Dr. WORTH is proud to be part of a school as international, forward-thinking and ambitious as LYBS. Her teaching philosophy focuses on nurturing each student's natural curiosity within an international framework, and she is excited about using the school's excellent resources to equip students with the skills to become global citizens. Her goal is to help review, upgrade and integrate LYBS' dynamic curriculum to meet the individual needs of each child and ensure that they develop national pride while acquiring the global skills needed for the 21st century.

We are confident that with a strong faculty, the students in the LYBS International Program will be better prepared for future academic success!