Rationale for G1 Humanities Combined Subject Structure and Offering Standalone G1 Humanities Subjects for In-Depth Learning

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Mr David Hoe, Jurong East-Bukit Batok GRC

Question

To ask the Minister for Education (a) what is the rationale for offering G1 Humanities in secondary schools as a combined subject comprising Social Studies and a lighter exposure module in Geography, History and Literature; (b) whether this structure provides sufficient depth for students to discover their strengths and sustain interest; and (c) whether the Ministry will consider offering standalone G1 Humanities subjects for more in-depth learning.

Response

1. The G1 Humanities subject, which comprises Social Studies and exposure modules in Geography, History and Literature in English was introduced in 2024 as part of MOE's efforts to cater to the different strengths, interests and learning needs of our students through Full Subject-based banding (Full SBB). Before Full SBB, modules in Geography, History and Literature were not available in the Normal (Technical) course. This enhancement aligns with MOE's vision that all students will complete their secondary school education with a broad understanding of society and the world, and develop global and civic competencies.
2. The structure of G1 Humanities is designed so that students better understand the Singapore society they live in and how they can contribute, through Social Studies. The exposure modules in G1 Humanities allow students to learn global and civic competencies from Geography, History and Literature while keeping the overall learning load manageable and accessible.
3. Students have the opportunity to learn different perspectives on key societal, historical and environmental issues through inquiry-based learning, discussions, use of manipulatives such as card games and field-based learning. Under Full SBB, students who start with G1 Humanities may choose to take specific Humanities subjects at a more demanding level from Secondary Two onwards if they show interest and aptitude in these disciplines.
4. MOE reviews its curriculum regularly and will continue to make changes as necessary, so that our educational offerings meet students’ diverse learning needs.