Aims & Objectives

 

 
  The general aims of the IH syllabus are:
  • Stimulate students' interest in humanities;
  • Provide a holistic understanding of physical-human relationships;
  • Develop an informed concern about the quality of the environment and the future of the human habitat; and thereby enhance students' sense of responsibility for the care of the earth and its people;
  • Enable students to acquire a sound knowledge of and to learn lessons from local and regional history;
  • Imbue in our students a sense of importance of adapting to regional and international developments; and
  • Develop in students critical thinking skills which are essential for life-long and independent learning
 
  To achieve these general aims, it is important that students acquire the three basic components of knowledge, skills, values and attitudes. The specific objectives of these components are as follows:

 

 
  Knowledge
  • To recognize the purpose and relevance of studying humanities;
  • To be aware of the spatial patterns of physical and human phenomena;
  • To demonstrate knowledge of physical-human relationships at local, regional and global scales;
  • To understand the political, economic, social and cultural forces that shaped the history of ancient India, Southeast Asia and China;
  • To acquire better understanding of the key historical milestones in Singapore's history from pre-1819 to 1971; and
  • To be aware of and prepared to face the challenges facing Singapore.
 
  Skills
  • To develop key historical skills such as recognizing bias in history writing, distinguishing between fact and opinion, and processing historical information;
  • to develop critical and creative thinking skills such as making comparisons, analyzing and drawing conclusions through an examination of different types of source materials;
  • to develop the necessary IT skills so as to help students be prepared for the Digital Age.
 
  Values and Attitudes
  • to develop an interest in the past and the forces that shaped human activities, institutions and ideas over time;
  • to appreciate our cultural heritage and develop sensitivity towards other cultures;
  • to instill a sense of loyalty, pride and commitment to Singapore;
  • to show an ability to look at events and issues from the perspectives of people from past and present;
  • to develop an attitude of care and concern for people;
  • to develop positive habits of mind for critical, creative and independent learning, and
  • to establish the instinct for survival and confidence in the future of Singapore.