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Q&A

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My daughter is in Primary Six. This is an important year as she will be going to a secondary school next year and I want her to get into a top one. I hear that students are often interviewed for placements. How do I help my daughter with her oral English so she can speak fluently when interviewed?

Education consultant Florence Robertson responds:

Your daughter should practise her oral English as much as possible during this year. In addition, of course, she needs to maintain good marks to be considered for a top school. It is important that her present school sees her as an all-round student dedicated to her studies who participates in extra-curricular activities. If any of her subjects are weak, she will need to work on them.

Try to provide your daughter with opportunities to speak English outside of regular classes. If you don't speak English, seek the assistance of a friend or relative. If you feel this is an imposition, you could consider a tutor to hold informal conversations and prepare mock interviews.

Listening to interviews in English on television or radio will help. Ask your daughter to listen to the tone and pace and encourage her to make a list of the interview steps. These often follow a pattern of asking about the person's background, interests, experience and plans.

Have a set time at home to speak English. When you shop or eat out, ask your daughter to order in English because the more she speaks English the easier it will be.

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