PARENT Q&A
Will original-language study harm school results?
Start from what the learner can do now—not age or a certificate label.
The short answer
With a clear plan, they need not conflict. Authentic materials provide context, reading volume and communication; school tasks cover textbook vocabulary, grammar terminology, writing conventions and term requirements.
Signs to begin
The family can keep authentic reading while following school vocabulary, grammar and written work.
Signs to wait
Speaking and reading are prioritised while school writing and grammar are ignored, or all authentic input is stopped for test scores.
CHECK THESE THREE THINGS
Decide from real performance
- Within one theme, authentic reading builds comprehension and expression; school work covers terminology and conventions.
- Weekly review covers reading volume, written work and corrections together.
- If school performance changes, identify whether the cause is knowledge, written accuracy or time allocation.
WHAT TO DO NEXT
Start in this order
- 01List the week's school unit and authentic theme, then identify shared language.
- 02Use authentic content for meaning and communication, then short tasks for school terminology and formats.
- 03At month end, review school work, reading progress and communication samples before adjusting time.
Learn more about the relevant exam
These official ability descriptions, exam formats and preparation materials explain the task requirements in more detail.