Language Centre
Filipino (Tagalog) Elementary Course
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Key information
Key information
- Duration
- 1 term per sub-level; 10 weeks per term
- Attendance mode
- Part-time, live online session/blended learning
Course overview
This course builds on the knowledge and skills developed across Filipino (Tagalog) Beginners 1-3. It consolidates core grammar and essential vocabulary while helping students use the language with greater accuracy, confidence and independence.
Students develop their speaking, listening, reading and writing through longer conversations, short presentations, extended listening practice, accessible connected texts and guided writing. The course places particular emphasis on practical communication and on using Filipino appropriately in a range of everyday, social and cultural contexts.
As the course progresses, students expand their vocabulary, improve their ability to link ideas and become better able to understand and produce more detailed spoken and written Filipino. Cultural content is integrated throughout the course to deepen students' understanding of Filipino communication, relationships and everyday life. This course is delivered by the Language Centre.
Method
The course is taught in Filipino (Tagalog) and English, with increasing use of Filipino as students' confidence develops. It covers the four key skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing, with a balance of communicative activities, vocabulary development, guided skills practice and consolidation of grammar already introduced at Beginners level.
Particular emphasis is placed on distinguishing between action-focused (actor-focus) and object-focused verbs, selecting the appropriate focus for meaning and context, and conjugating these verbs accurately. Grammar concepts that students need to revisit will also be reviewed and practised as appropriate.
Students take part in pair and group work, role-plays, discussions, problem-solving tasks, short presentations, guided reading and listening activities, and structured writing. Previously studied language is revisited in meaningful contexts so that students can use it more flexibly and accurately. Regular attendance, active participation and completion of homework are expected to support steady progress.
The course is delivered through a blended learning model: comprised of 15 hours of live, online, structured lessons with the teacher, plus approximately 5 hours of guided independent learning supported by complementary materials (a total of 20 hours of blended learning). The course is designed so that, over the 10‑week period, you should have the opportunity to achieve the stated objectives, depending on your engagement and progress.
Material
Course materials will be provided by the teacher.
Entry requirements and progression route
To join Filipino (Tagalog) Elementary 1, students should have completed Beginners 1-3 at SOAS Language Centre or have equivalent knowledge gained through approximately 60 hours of guided language learning. The progression route from Filipino Elementary 1 is to Filipino Elementary 2; from Elementary 2 to Elementary 3. Upon successful completion of Elementary you will be able to progress to the next course level; Pre-Intermediate. Students may request a Certificate of Attendance upon completion of a course, provided they have at least 70% attendance.
Please note, that each term, courses are subject to quorum requirements.
- For course dates and information, please see our timetables
Structure
Filipino (Tagalog) Elementary 1
By the end of the course, you should be able to:
- take part in longer conversations on familiar topics, ask follow-up questions and respond with greater spontaneity
- describe people, places, routines, experiences and events in greater detail
- narrate past events and personal experiences in a clear sequence using time expressions and linking words
- discuss plans, intentions, possibilities and obligations with increasing accuracy
- express opinions, agreement and disagreement and give reasons for your views
- make and respond to suggestions, invitations, polite requests and advice in everyday situations
- adapt your language to formal and informal situations using appropriate forms of address, pronouns, particles and polite expressions
- understand the main ideas and relevant details in short conversations and audio or video material on familiar topics
- read and respond to short, connected texts such as messages, notices, profiles, reviews and accessible cultural material
- write connected paragraphs and short texts, including descriptions, personal narratives, messages and reviews
- distinguish between action-focused (actor-focus) and object-focused verbs and select the appropriate focus for meaning and context
- conjugate action-focused and object-focused verbs accurately in speaking and writing
- revisit and consolidate grammar concepts from Beginners 1-3 as needed and use them more accurately in extended speaking and writing
- discuss selected aspects of Filipino culture and everyday communication, including family and community life, hospitality, celebrations and popular culture
The above is an indication of content that may be covered over the duration of the course but it could vary depending on the level and progress of students in the class.
