Language use and attitudes towards Chinese : a comparison between special assistance plan (SAP) and Mainstream Secondary School graduates in Singapore

Bilingualism has been integral to language policy in Singapore. Special Assistance Plan (SAP) schools were established in 1979 to foster bicultural English-Chinese bilinguals. This study examines language use and attitudes towards Chinese between SAP and mainstream secondary school graduates. 169 university students participated in an online questionnaire designed to elicit language use and attitudes towards Chinese, bilingualism and SAP schools. 4 participants also took part in a short interview to examine views regarding SAP schools. Results showed that SAP graduates do not use more Chinese than mainstream graduates, both groups show positive attitudes towards Chinese, and the SAP school environment has allowed students to appreciate Chinese culture more. With English becoming the dominant language for young Singaporeans, more contact time with Chinese is required in all schools to increase exposure. More home support is needed for SAP schools to achieve their goals of producing English-Chinese bicultural and biliterate students.Bachelor of Art