English language competence and the area secondary school : an innovative pilot project

Abstract

A passing score (1-5) on the Maltese Secondary Education Certificate (SEC)i English Language exam is required for entry eligibility into Form VI. In 2010, 3,248 students received a passing grade on the English Language SEC exam. Of 3,248 passes in total, only 106 were obtained from students hailing from area secondary schools. The aim of this paper is to share an innovative project piloted at an area secondary school during the 2010 – 2011 academic year. The project, which included collaboration between a group of Maltese and American teenagers, suggested that through the lens of cultural exchange Form 4 students could be motivated to harness their English language skills at a critical point in their academic careers. This paper will address the need for attention to be given to a pocket of students currently underperforming their peers of Junior Lyceum, Church and Independent schools. It will provide an overview of the project piloted, including the planning, development and execution stages, obstacles and outcomes. It will conclude by offering recommendations for improvement and future sustainability.