The English language plays a significant role in the lives of students at Manado Independent School (MIS) as it is the academic language used on campus. As an international school, MIS conducts a weeklong program that mainly focuses on the English language and its usage in different areas of learning. An annual event in the school calendar, English Week is also one of the most highlighted occasions of the school year. This program promotes the use of English on campus. It also intends to provide fun and opportunities to advance communication skills through various activities related to the language.
The theme for this year is the English Language: Shaping Thoughts for Success, held from February 27-March 3. The event was enlivened by various activities spearheaded by the English Department. The program showcased the students’ talents through drama, music, poetry, reading, storytelling, writing essays, and other interactive skills with fellow students. This year’s English Week activities were no less enjoyable than previous years. Several exciting activities were carried out such as a spelling bee contest, overdub skits, song parody, battle rap, speech choir, choral reading, poem relay, poster-making contest, and others. All middle school students participated in the English Challenge, similar to the Amazing Race game. It was the highlight of their EW program. Each class was to accomplish a series of tasks related to English at each station and race to the winning prize. Everyone had a blast!
The high school section merged the English Week program with SA Cosplay. These made the culmination delightful and fascinating for high school students. Not only were the students able to exhibit their abilities in the English language, but they also got to express their artistic side through the costumes and attire of their favorite book characters. Meanwhile, there was a “coswalk” and role-playing of manga characters in middle school last Friday, March 10. The colorful and aesthetic costumes worn by the cosplayers were such a delight for the spectators.
Joshua Lenzun, the English Club president of the high school, shared his thoughts on the benefits of the English Week program for students. He said that the program enhanced students’ English language skills. It can help them in their academic or professional pursuits and boost their confidence in speaking English. Joshua added that programs like these build better communication and social interactions with people from different cultures. He cannot be more correct because exposure to different cultures and perspectives will broaden students’ horizons and help develop a global mindset. The English Week program is not only a fun and engaging learning experience. It also promotes a love of learning and curiosity about the world.
The English Week Festival concluded by handing out prizes to students who won in different competitions held by each section of the English Department. There was a standing ovation for the success of this program which was made possible by enthusiastic learners of the English language and their English teachers. Everyone was happy and entertained by all the performances. Until next time. Well done, everyone!
