Translating for pedagogical purposes

Abstract

In recent years, using translation for teaching Chinese Language in Singapore has become a common and necessary strategy due to the growing trend of families using English Language as the primary language at home. With increased use of translation, or the bilingual approach, in Chinese Language teaching, the issue of using suitable text also arises. This Capstone advocates the use of translated local literature as teaching materials and discusses the strategies involved in translating for pedagogical purposes. Using a locally produced literature as an example, this Capstone experimented with the strategies and discusses key considerations in pedagogical translations as such selection of text, matching cognitive and language development of target readers, and manipulating text to showcase grammatical features or beautiful writing. Specific translation strategies used in translating this Capstone for pedagogical purposes include manipulating the range of vocabulary to ensure the translation is age-appropriate, introducing specific grammatical elements in sentences to ensure there are ample learning opportunities, introducing metaphors and poetic expressions to encourage students to write better and pitching the translation at a suitable register which is age appropriate.