New Curriculum Framework discards Malayalam alphabet-based learning

Thiruvananthapuram: Though Kerala’s new Curriculum framework insists on using Malayalam as a medium of instruction, it has discarded the Malayalam alphabet-based learning. 

It may be noted that the Malayalam alphabets found its way back to the lower primary (LP) textbooks this academic year after protests and repeated demands from language lovers among others. However,  the new Curriculum Framework has no mention of Malayalam alphabet-based learning.

Experts concerned with the new curriculum panel maintain that the approach of teaching the alphabets first and then the language and ideas, is “not scientific”. The teaching of grammar and its usage to students, and teachers scrutiny of the same during academic activities as ‘problem finders’ may affect students’ interests and skills As a result, there will not be alphabet-based teaching in classes 1 and 2, experts said.

However, the library, reading corner, digital resources, language walls, language labs, and local resources will be provided to students to familiarise themselves with the Malayalam language. Similarly, there is no ban on teaching the alphabets.