An analysis of local press coverage pertaining to the speak good English movement between 1999 and 2014

Abstract

The Speak Good English Movement (SGEM) is an annual initiative to promote the speaking of ‘correct’ or ‘standard’ English in Singapore. Previous research on the movement have focused on Singlish and not on the SGEM per se. The present study explores the arguments and ideologies that emerge in press commentary on the SGEM between 1999 and 2014, through a quantitative and qualitative analysis of 190 English language newspaper articles from various local sources. Findings show that the major arguments presented in articles fell mainly into five categories of ‘proper English’, ‘standard English’, ‘Singlish’, ‘falling standards’, and ‘economic value’ and that the press was also largely supportive towards the movement as observed through its stance and framing of articles. An analysis of press discussions will highlight the various roles of local newspapers in support of the SGEM by local newspapers and reveal a lack of clarity with regard to the movement’s aims and its tendency to promote mixed messages. Following an in-depth study, a discussion into areas of future research and improvements will also be presented.