Language & Literacy
Building confident communicators
Language underpins every aspect of learning, helping students communicate with confidence and engage with the world around them.
At OIS, students develop strong communication skills through reading, writing, speaking and listening, while learning in a multilingual and multicultural environment that values every language and culture.
Language learning – whether in the language of instruction (English), the host language (Norwegian), modern foreign languages, or the student’s mother tongue–is central not only to success of our curriculum, but also to the student’s ability to participate in a linguistically complex world.
It is fantastic to witness how our students' language skills develop, and how they blossom as they find confidence in using a new language.
- Elina Pietola , ELL Teacher
English
English is the language of instruction at OIS and provides the foundation for learning across the curriculum. As an international school, we recognise that students join us with a wide range of language backgrounds, and developing English proficiency is a shared responsibility across the school.
Students who are developing their English receive additional English as an Additional Language (EAL) support, enabling them to participate confidently in classroom learning while continuing to build their language skills.
Norwegian
All students from Years 1–10 learn Norwegian as the host-country language. Courses are offered at three levels, from beginner to native speaker, allowing students to learn at a pace appropriate to their experience and proficiency. Students following the Norwegian A programme participate in the Norwegian National Tests in Years 6, 8 and 9.
Additional Languages
From Year 8, students choose either French or Spanish as an additional language and are encouraged to continue these studies in the Upper Secondary. Language learning is enriched through cultural experiences, including the annual International Language Day and the Year 10 language trips to France, Spain or Norway.
Mother Tongue Support
We value the linguistic diversity of our international community and recognise the importance of maintaining students' first languages.
Where appropriate, students in the IB Diploma Programme can study their mother tongue through the IB's School-Supported Self-Taught or Special Request Language options. Whenever possible, OIS works with external language teachers to provide additional Language A opportunities.
A Culture of Reading
Reading is at the heart of learning at OIS. We encouraging students to read widely, discover new authors and develop a lifelong enjoyment of books. Through book clubs, buddy reading, library experiences and a wide range of literacy activities, reading becomes a shared part of everyday school life.
By nurturing a love of reading alongside strong literacy skills, we help students become confident communicators, critical thinkers and independent learners across every subject.
The importance of reading extends way beyond just literature and language. A love of books is preparing our students for academic success and lifelong learning."
- John Kenneally, Reading Coordinator