04 Aug 2005

Title: New History syllabuses stress critical thinking

1. We thank Mr Loh Kah Seng (‘Teach full breadth and depth of Singapore’s history’, ST Forum, 27/7) and Mr Yeo Chow Koon (‘History curriculum can be improved further’, ST Forum, 29/7) for their suggestions on the teaching of Singapore’s history in our schools.
2. We agree that the teaching of history is not about memorising facts, but developing critical thinking and drawing important lessons and values learnt from the past.  At lower secondary, the chronological approach is used in the teaching of Singapore’s history.  This approach helps our students appreciate the Singapore Story, which reflects the collective memory of our nation.  Through the study of key defining moments such as the Japanese Occupation and our journey to nationhood, students learn values such as resilience and racial and religious harmony, and develop a sense of national pride and identity.
3. Mr Loh was concerned that students and teachers faced difficulty thinking critically about the past.  We would like to assure him that our History syllabuses have been revised to give greater emphasis to historical interpretation and inquiry skills.  The introduction of source-based study allows students to look at different viewpoints presented in sources, such as speeches, documents, newspaper reports and political cartoons, and to reach an informed conclusion.
4. We agree that it is desirable for students to appreciate the “full breadth and depth” of Singapore’s history.  MOE will continue to support teachers in adopting suitable pedagogy to bring meaning and life to history lessons for our students.  We will also ensure that our instructional materials are relevant and up-to-date.

Ho Peng (Ms)
Director, Curriculum Planning and Development Division,
Ministry of Education