We believe public speaking skills are essential for success in various aspects of life, including academic, professional, and personal domains. For bilingual students, developing proficiency in public speaking not only enhances their communication abilities but also plays a crucial role in building confidence.
“The ability to articulate ideas and express oneself effectively in two languages empowers bilingual students to overcome language barriers and thrive in a multicultural society.”
That’s why recently, the English department has been promoting and hosting speaking events, such as the debate competition and the Poetry Slam.
Bilingual students often face the challenge of navigating between two different linguistic and cultural contexts. Public speaking allows them to bridge this gap by effectively communicating their thoughts and ideas to diverse audiences. By engaging in public speaking, students learn to adapt their language use, tone, and non-verbal cues to suit different situations. This adaptability not only improves their communication skills but also enables them to build connections with individuals from different cultural backgrounds. Overcoming language barriers through public speaking builds confidence and fosters a sense of belonging in bilingual students.
Public speaking requires bilingual students to think critically and organise their thoughts coherently. They must analyse information, structure their arguments, and present them persuasively. Through this process, students develop critical thinking skills, learn to evaluate evidence, and express their opinions effectively. These skills are transferable to other academic areas, such as writing essays, participating in discussions, and engaging in research. The ability to think critically and present ideas clearly not only boosts students’ confidence but also equips them with valuable skills for their academic and professional journeys.
“Speaking in English really boosts my confidence and helps me to think about structuring arguments that can be adapted to suit my purpose.’’
— Anhad, Year 10
As bilingual students gain mastery over public speaking skills, their self-confidence naturally grows. The process of preparing and delivering speeches, participating in debates or presentations, and receiving feedback helps students recognise their abilities and strengths. Public speaking provides a platform for self-expression and empowers bilingual students to share their unique perspectives with others. The confidence they gain from successful public speaking experiences extends beyond language proficiency and positively impacts other areas of their lives, such as academics, career development, and personal relationships.
The development of public speaking skills in bilingual students is essential for their overall growth and confidence-building. By recognising the importance of public speaking skills and fostering a supportive environment, we can enable bilingual students to unlock their full potential and succeed in all aspects of their lives.
Anhad (Year 10)
— was a recent winner of the Inter School Debate Competition, hosted at Green Valley. He was also an award winner at the World Scholar’s Cup in Bangkok.
St Andrews International School fosters an inclusive environment for bilingual speakers from all around the world. Find out more about our Language Programmes here.
Mr Thomas Amos
English Teacher and Exceptional Learners Co-ordinator
