Thai Language, Culture and History at Traill
Thai Language Culture and History Programme for Native Thai speakers
The Curriculum
Traill International School’s Thai Language and Culture curriculum has been designed to match the Thai Ministry of Education’s core curriculum and to meet the MOE learning standards. The students learn a wide range of Thai language skills including reading, writing, listening, viewing, speaking, grammar, literature, and literary Works. The students are required to think critically and apply what they learn in their daily lives. Students also learn about the fascinating Thai history, geography, art, and Thai culture. Assessments are based on grade level indicators. The students continue to develop their skills and understanding as they progress towards Year 11 where they will sit iGCSE First Language Thai.
Thai Language Culture and History Programme for Non-Native speakers
The Thai Language Culture and History programme for non-Thai students is offered from KG1-Year 9. The aim of the programme is to enable students to communicate in Thai, using familiar vocabulary, progressing to short conversations and beyond. In addition, students develop an understanding of Thailand’s history and culture and a deep appreciation of Thai values. The main focus of the programme is for students to speak and understand the Thai language and as students advance through the course, the programme is expanded to include more emphasis on reading. Students will develop their reading skills to be able to understand public signs, key words, days of the week etc. In writing, students will be able to write personal information. For those non-native speaking students who are able to excel in their studies, there is the opportunity to join the native speakers’ class.
Celebrating Thai Cultural Events
Traill International School proudly supports and promotes Thai cultural events throughout the school year. These events which involve both Thai and Foreign students, give everyone the opportunity to embrace the rich tapestry of Thai history and culture.
Wai Khru: The Wai Khru Ceremony is held at the beginning of the academic year. During this ceremony, students pay respect/thank their teachers for the support during their studies. the students work together as a team to create and design a Pan Pun (a flower arrangement) which they present to their teacher. The ceremony also includes traditional music and dance as well as the recitation of a blessing.
Loy Krathong: The Loy Krathong festival is one of the most colourful Thai traditional events celebrated at the school. Students learn about the origins of Loy Krathong and the importance of water in the festival. They make their own krathongs (floating flower arrangements) and take part in the celebration by singing, dancing, and playing Thai musical instruments. Everyone including our parents dress in Thai traditional clothing and our spectacular Loy Krathong performance takes place on our outdoor stage. Afterwards, students and parents have the opportunity to float their krathongs onsite.
Songkran: Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year and it is celebrated at Traill before the Songkran break. Students learn the meaning of Songkran and take part in merit making including offering alms to monks. Once this is completed, students have the opportunity to extend their knowledge of Thai crafts and games before the water pouring ceremony begins. During this, students pay respect to their teachers by pouring scented water onto the teachers’ palms. When the ceremony ends, the students have some fun by splashing water on each other. In addition to learning the historical importance of the different celebrations, Traill students also focus on specific aspects of Thai history. For example, they learn about the importance of the Royal Family, Buddhism and Thai arts including music, dance, martial arts, and folktales.