MASTERING GRAMMAR AND EDITING
The backbone of effective English communication is grammar.
May 2024 | By Andre Yeo, Timothy Joshua & EPH Editorial Team
The backbone of effective English communication is grammar.
May 2024 | By Andre Yeo, Timothy Joshua & EPH Editorial Team
Having a strong grasp of grammar enables you to express yourself clearly, write proficiently, comprehend texts, and speak confidently. Likewise, to be able to edit effectively, a sound knowledge of grammar is essential. Authors Andre Yeo and Timothy Joshua share their thoughts on their new Secondary English series, English Excellence: Mastering Grammar & Editing ($13.90), and how it aids students in their mastery of the English language.
Q How has your experience as Secondary English teachers shaped the development of this series?
From our experience, there is usually a lack of explicit grammar skills taught in secondary school due to the assumption that students are taught these skills in primary school. The majority of students thus tend to make grammar mistakes by simply going with their ‘gut’ feeling of what feels ‘right’, which we are here to help correct!
Q Could you highlight the unique approach of this series in engaging students to grasp grammar concepts effectively?
The series has a dual approach of offering explicit grammar instructions with practice, and in-depth explanations for each error for cross-checking and self-improvement. With the rigorous chapter-specific and overarching editing practices of increasing complexity, students can gain mastery of each grammar component.
Q What distinguishes this series from other resources?
As veteran teachers, we have always found it frustrating to see unreasonable answers in other editing practices which do little except confuse students. To circumvent this, the English Excellence: Mastering Grammar & Editing series pitches to national examination standards, in terms of fairness, difficulty, and error types. The in-depth explanation of errors also allows students to learn effectively from their mistakes by detailing how to apply grammar rules correctly to various types of questions.
From our experience, there is usually a lack of explicit grammar skills taught in secondary school due to the assumption that students are taught these skills in primary school. The majority of students thus tend to make grammar mistakes by simply going with their ‘gut’ feeling of what feels ‘right’, which we are here to help correct!
Q Could you highlight the unique approach of this series in engaging students to grasp grammar concepts effectively?
The series has a dual approach of offering explicit grammar instructions with practice, and in-depth explanations for each error for cross-checking and self-improvement. With the rigorous chapter-specific and overarching editing practices of increasing complexity, students can gain mastery of each grammar component.
Q What distinguishes this series from other resources?
As veteran teachers, we have always found it frustrating to see unreasonable answers in other editing practices which do little except confuse students. To circumvent this, the English Excellence: Mastering Grammar & Editing series pitches to national examination standards, in terms of fairness, difficulty, and error types. The in-depth explanation of errors also allows students to learn effectively from their mistakes by detailing how to apply grammar rules correctly to various types of questions.
Cultivating a Passion for READING & WRITING
Getting in the groove of reading a book or penning a story can be as easy as one-two-three.
Mar 2024 | By EPH Editorial Team
Getting in the groove of reading a book or penning a story can be as easy as one-two-three.
Mar 2024 | By EPH Editorial Team
In today’s digital age, we do not read and write as much as before because a lot of us spend more time on our mobile devices watching multimedia content and playing games instead. Writing compositions in school can then feel like a chore as we fall out of practice. To reignite and nurture your interest in reading and writing, here are some suggestions.
1 Make Time to Read
Reading and writing go together. Reading sparks your imagination, creativity, and critical and analytical skills, which are the key ingredients to writing. To develop a reading habit, set aside some time to read every day. You can start small. For instance, just 15 minutes a day can be the start of a wonderful habit. Making time to read before bed can help you to relax and sleep better.
2 Read Quality Materials
A good book draws you in and makes it hard for you to stop reading. If you’ve yet to stumble upon a book that you truly like, try expanding your selection of reading materials. Find out what suits your tastes by exploring different genres. Whet your reading appetite by choosing books with interesting settings, plots, or characters. You can also read different text types to expand your vocabulary and pick up various comprehension strategies.
3 Make Time to Write
To improve as a writer, you simply need to keep trying, learning, and writing along the way. An easy way to go about this is to start off by writing about things that interest you or you feel passionate about, like your favourite sport, pop star, or book. You can also keep a journal to pen your innermost thoughts or reflections. Express your true voice by writing and you’ll naturally write more over time.
For more inspiration to get your writing juices flowing, check out the new edition of the English Mega Compositions series ($10.90 each), published by Educational Publishing House (EPH). Each book features an extensive collection of 200 compositions of different text types. This series fosters a love for reading and offers inspiring ideas for your own writing.
Reading and writing go together. Reading sparks your imagination, creativity, and critical and analytical skills, which are the key ingredients to writing. To develop a reading habit, set aside some time to read every day. You can start small. For instance, just 15 minutes a day can be the start of a wonderful habit. Making time to read before bed can help you to relax and sleep better.
2 Read Quality Materials
A good book draws you in and makes it hard for you to stop reading. If you’ve yet to stumble upon a book that you truly like, try expanding your selection of reading materials. Find out what suits your tastes by exploring different genres. Whet your reading appetite by choosing books with interesting settings, plots, or characters. You can also read different text types to expand your vocabulary and pick up various comprehension strategies.
3 Make Time to Write
To improve as a writer, you simply need to keep trying, learning, and writing along the way. An easy way to go about this is to start off by writing about things that interest you or you feel passionate about, like your favourite sport, pop star, or book. You can also keep a journal to pen your innermost thoughts or reflections. Express your true voice by writing and you’ll naturally write more over time.
For more inspiration to get your writing juices flowing, check out the new edition of the English Mega Compositions series ($10.90 each), published by Educational Publishing House (EPH). Each book features an extensive collection of 200 compositions of different text types. This series fosters a love for reading and offers inspiring ideas for your own writing.
HIGH-FREQUENCY WORDS for Preschool Learning
Here’s how to incorporate high-frequency words in your tot’s daily routine to maximise preschool language learning.
Nov 2023 | By EPH Editorial Team
Here’s how to incorporate high-frequency words in your tot’s daily routine to maximise preschool language learning.
Nov 2023 | By EPH Editorial Team
As parents, you hold the key to your child’s early language development. Did you know
that introducing high-frequency words — words that appear often in everyday reading and writing — during preschool years can greatly boost your child’s language skills? Here are five effective tips to help you maximise your preschooler’s language learning using high-frequency words.
1 Make Learning Fun
Learning doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Incorporate high-frequency words into games and activities your child already loves. Use flashcards and play ‘I Spy’ using high-frequency words instead of objects. These methods turn learning into a playful adventure, keeping your child engaged and excited.
2 Create a Word-Rich Environment
Surround your child with words! Label everyday items around the house (e.g. mug, pot, mat) using sticky notes or removable tape. When they see these words often, paired with high-frequency words, they’ll start recognising and remembering them naturally.
3 Read Together
Reading is a powerful tool for language development. Choose books that feature high-frequency words and read aloud together. Encourage your child to point at the words as you read them. Repetition is key! The more your child hears and sees these words, the more they’ll understand and use them.
4 Sing and Rhyme
Children love music and rhymes. Incorporate high-frequency words into catchy songs and rhymes. Create your own tunes or find existing ones online. When words are set to music, they become even more memorable. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your child picks up these words through rhythm and melody.
5 Converse Daily
Simple daily conversations provide countless opportunities to introduce high-frequency words. Talk to your child about their day, activities, and surroundings. Use these words naturally in sentences, for instance, “Put on your cap before going outside.” Contextual use helps your child grasp the meaning and usage of these words.
To complement the above, introduce your child to activity books that are both enjoyable and feature effective teaching methods. Adored by parents and teachers alike, the new 2nd edition of the High Frequency Words series ($12.90 each) from Educational Publishing House serves as a reliable companion for your child’s language development. Equipped with ample practices and flashcards, these easy-to-use books will empower your child to become better readers!
Remember, every child learns at their own pace. Celebrate their progress and efforts along the way. By incorporating high-frequency words into their daily routine, you’re building a solid foundation for your child’s language skills as they grow.
Learning doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Incorporate high-frequency words into games and activities your child already loves. Use flashcards and play ‘I Spy’ using high-frequency words instead of objects. These methods turn learning into a playful adventure, keeping your child engaged and excited.
2 Create a Word-Rich Environment
Surround your child with words! Label everyday items around the house (e.g. mug, pot, mat) using sticky notes or removable tape. When they see these words often, paired with high-frequency words, they’ll start recognising and remembering them naturally.
3 Read Together
Reading is a powerful tool for language development. Choose books that feature high-frequency words and read aloud together. Encourage your child to point at the words as you read them. Repetition is key! The more your child hears and sees these words, the more they’ll understand and use them.
4 Sing and Rhyme
Children love music and rhymes. Incorporate high-frequency words into catchy songs and rhymes. Create your own tunes or find existing ones online. When words are set to music, they become even more memorable. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your child picks up these words through rhythm and melody.
5 Converse Daily
Simple daily conversations provide countless opportunities to introduce high-frequency words. Talk to your child about their day, activities, and surroundings. Use these words naturally in sentences, for instance, “Put on your cap before going outside.” Contextual use helps your child grasp the meaning and usage of these words.
To complement the above, introduce your child to activity books that are both enjoyable and feature effective teaching methods. Adored by parents and teachers alike, the new 2nd edition of the High Frequency Words series ($12.90 each) from Educational Publishing House serves as a reliable companion for your child’s language development. Equipped with ample practices and flashcards, these easy-to-use books will empower your child to become better readers!
Remember, every child learns at their own pace. Celebrate their progress and efforts along the way. By incorporating high-frequency words into their daily routine, you’re building a solid foundation for your child’s language skills as they grow.
Achieving AL1 in PSLE CHINESE PAPER 2
With the PSLE Chinese Paper 2 fast approaching, it's time to shift into high gear to clinch your desired AL1.
Aug 2024 | By EPH Editorial Team
With the PSLE Chinese Paper 2 fast approaching, it's time to shift into high gear to clinch your desired AL1.
Aug 2024 | By EPH Editorial Team
The PSLE Chinese examination consists of Composition Writing (Paper 1), Language Usage and Comprehension (Paper 2), and Oral Communication and Listening Comprehension (Paper 3). Among the three, Paper 2 accounts for almost 50% of the total score. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to master the different examinable components of Paper 2. Here are three practical steps to guide you towards attaining AL1 in your examination.
1 Understand the Examination Format
Familiarise yourself with the various components of Paper 2. Each component tests your understanding and proficiency in different language skills. To tackle each examinable component confidently, it is important to have a thorough understanding of what will be tested.
For instance, 拼音选择 tests your ability to differentiate between similar-sounding beginning consonants and vowels(声母、韵母和声调).
On the other hand, 辨字选择 tests your ability to recognise and differentiate between words that are alike in form (形似字) or sound (音似字).
2 Practise Regularly
Set a regular study schedule to cover the different components of the examination. You should start your revision with unit reviews or topical exercises which cover a wide range of components, before moving on to mock examination papers. The topical exercises will help you to master different answering techniques, as well as give you a feel of how to handle questions of various difficulty levels. To fully prepare yourself, attempt exercises or mock papers under examination conditions.
3 Create Study Notes
Consolidate key concepts, notable vocabulary, and sample sentences into comprehensive study notes. Having concise and organised notes facilitates quick recall during revision. Regularly review and update your notes to reinforce your learning and to ensure that the information stays fresh in your mind.
Scoring good grades for the PSLE Chinese Paper 2 examination is entirely achievable. By following the above steps, you are one step closer to reaching your goal. To supplement your learning, you may refer to Achieving AL1 in Chinese Examination (P5/ PSLE) ($12.90 each) from Educational Publishing House. This series closely aligns with the MOE Chinese syllabus, as well as the PSLE Chinese Paper 2 examination format. It also contains study tips and useful notes for effective revision. With this series, you will be on your way to achieving success in your Chinese Paper 2 examination.
Familiarise yourself with the various components of Paper 2. Each component tests your understanding and proficiency in different language skills. To tackle each examinable component confidently, it is important to have a thorough understanding of what will be tested.
For instance, 拼音选择 tests your ability to differentiate between similar-sounding beginning consonants and vowels(声母、韵母和声调).
On the other hand, 辨字选择 tests your ability to recognise and differentiate between words that are alike in form (形似字) or sound (音似字).
2 Practise Regularly
Set a regular study schedule to cover the different components of the examination. You should start your revision with unit reviews or topical exercises which cover a wide range of components, before moving on to mock examination papers. The topical exercises will help you to master different answering techniques, as well as give you a feel of how to handle questions of various difficulty levels. To fully prepare yourself, attempt exercises or mock papers under examination conditions.
3 Create Study Notes
Consolidate key concepts, notable vocabulary, and sample sentences into comprehensive study notes. Having concise and organised notes facilitates quick recall during revision. Regularly review and update your notes to reinforce your learning and to ensure that the information stays fresh in your mind.
Scoring good grades for the PSLE Chinese Paper 2 examination is entirely achievable. By following the above steps, you are one step closer to reaching your goal. To supplement your learning, you may refer to Achieving AL1 in Chinese Examination (P5/ PSLE) ($12.90 each) from Educational Publishing House. This series closely aligns with the MOE Chinese syllabus, as well as the PSLE Chinese Paper 2 examination format. It also contains study tips and useful notes for effective revision. With this series, you will be on your way to achieving success in your Chinese Paper 2 examination.
SECONDARY CHINESE VOCABULARY
Follow these five steps consistently and gradually expand your Chinese vocabulary over time.
May 2024 | By EPH Editorial Team
Follow these five steps consistently and gradually expand your Chinese vocabulary over time.
May 2024 | By EPH Editorial Team
Expanding your Chinese vocabulary at Secondary levels involves a combination of systematic study, practice, and exposure to the language in various contexts. Here are some effective steps to help you achieve this.
1 Practise Writing Vocabulary Words
Writing by hand has a positive impact on vocabulary learning. Writing practices will reinforce the learning of new Chinese vocabulary and strengthen retention in the long run.
Writing by hand has a positive impact on vocabulary learning. Writing practices will reinforce the learning of new Chinese vocabulary and strengthen retention in the long run.
2 Master Word Collocations
Word collocations — two or more words that are often used together — are an essential part of the Chinese language. Learn to form and build phrases from individual vocabulary words. By accumulating collocations and exploring various word combinations, you can enhance your ability to comprehend a diversity of Chinese phrases and idioms. This skill is especially useful when it comes to constructing longer sentences and tackling cloze passage exercises.
Word collocations — two or more words that are often used together — are an essential part of the Chinese language. Learn to form and build phrases from individual vocabulary words. By accumulating collocations and exploring various word combinations, you can enhance your ability to comprehend a diversity of Chinese phrases and idioms. This skill is especially useful when it comes to constructing longer sentences and tackling cloze passage exercises.
3 Attempt Vocabulary Drills
Vocabulary exercises play a crucial role in language learning. Expose yourself to a variety of exercises that test not only individual words but also phrases and sentences. By encountering words in different contexts and familiarising yourself with their usage, you can strengthen your vocabulary effectively and build confidence.
4 Immerse in Chinese Culture
Make an effort to actively participate in Chinese cultural events or immersion programmes. Doing so not only exposes you to more vocabulary words but also deepens your understanding and appreciation of the language.
5 Stay Consistent and Persistent
Language learning takes time and dedication. Make a habit to study and practise Chinese regularly. Consistent learning is the key to long-term progress and the accumulation of Chinese vocabulary.
To supplement your learning, you may check out the Secondary Chinese Vocabulary and Sentences in 5 Minutes series ($13.90 each) from Educational Publishing House. This series closely aligns with the MOE Secondary Chinese textbook and serves as the ideal learning companion for students doing self-revision. Its comprehensive exercises also make it the perfect supplementary material for teachers to use in class. Equipped with this series, you will be on your way to accumulating and expanding Chinese vocabulary words effectively.
Vocabulary exercises play a crucial role in language learning. Expose yourself to a variety of exercises that test not only individual words but also phrases and sentences. By encountering words in different contexts and familiarising yourself with their usage, you can strengthen your vocabulary effectively and build confidence.
4 Immerse in Chinese Culture
Make an effort to actively participate in Chinese cultural events or immersion programmes. Doing so not only exposes you to more vocabulary words but also deepens your understanding and appreciation of the language.
5 Stay Consistent and Persistent
Language learning takes time and dedication. Make a habit to study and practise Chinese regularly. Consistent learning is the key to long-term progress and the accumulation of Chinese vocabulary.
To supplement your learning, you may check out the Secondary Chinese Vocabulary and Sentences in 5 Minutes series ($13.90 each) from Educational Publishing House. This series closely aligns with the MOE Secondary Chinese textbook and serves as the ideal learning companion for students doing self-revision. Its comprehensive exercises also make it the perfect supplementary material for teachers to use in class. Equipped with this series, you will be on your way to accumulating and expanding Chinese vocabulary words effectively.
New 2024 Primary 1 CHINESE SYLLABUS
How does this new syllabus compare with the old one?
Mar 2024 | By EPH Editorial Team
How does this new syllabus compare with the old one?
Mar 2024 | By EPH Editorial Team
2024 sees a new Primary 1 Chinese syllabus being introduced, with《欢乐伙伴2.0》adjusted and modified based on the 2015 Chinese textbook《欢乐伙伴》. Several major changes are reflected in the new Primary 1 Chinese Syllabus, which we have highlighted in the table below.
| Old Syllabus 欢乐伙伴 |
New Syllabus 欢乐伙伴2.0 |
|
| Topic Sequence 课文顺序 |
Unit 1: 我上学了 Unit 2: 我家有九个人 Unit 3: 今天是我的生日 Unit 4: 我喜欢打篮球 Unit 5: 现在几点 Unit 10: 课室里有什么 |
Changes to the 识读字 and 识写字 introduced per unit; additional 识写字 are also introduced. |
| Unit 6: 我感冒了 Unit 7: 这是我的学校 Unit 8: 今天有体育课吗 Unit 9: 我的东西不见了 |
Changes to topic sequence, with a new set of 识读字 and 识写字 under each unit: Unit 6: 这是我的学校 Unit 7: 我的东西不见了 Unit 8: 我感冒了 Unit 9: 今天有体育课吗 |
| Old Syllabus 欢乐伙伴 |
New Syllabus 欢乐伙伴2.0 |
|
| Hanyu Pinyin Sequence 汉语拼音顺序 |
Unit 2: b p m f d t n l Unit 3: g k h j q x Unit 4: zh ch sh r z c s Unit 5: ai ao an ang |
No change |
| Unit 1: a o e i u v Unit 6: ou ong Unit 7: ei en eng er Unit 8: ia iao iang ie ian iu iong in ing Unit 9: ua uo ui un uai uan uang Unit 10: ve vn van |
Changes to Hanyu Pinyin under each unit: Unit 1: ‘er’ is added on top of the existing vowels Unit 6: ia iao ian iang ie Unit 7: ua uo uai uan uang Unit 8: ou ong ei eng Unit 9: iu in ing iong Unit 10: ui un ve vn van |
The new syllabus uses a multimodal approach to help pupils learn Chinese. This approach sees technology being integrated into the learning process, which encourages interactive reading and independent learning outside of school settings. To supplement your child’s learning, you may refer to several assessment books that are aligned to the new syllabus from Educational Publishing House, which include e-learning resources such as classroom-simulated audio for Listening Comprehension practices.
SCORE IN PRIMARY CHINESE Language Usage
Let’s hear from experienced teachers on how to do well in Chinese Language Usage.
Nov 2023 | By EPH Editorial Team
Let’s hear from experienced teachers on how to do well in Chinese Language Usage.
Nov 2023 | By EPH Editorial Team
Language Usage is a component tested in the Primary Chinese examination. With adequate practice and good preparation, pupils can score well for the component. Experienced teachers 刘璐滢老师, 佩佩老师 and 雨彤老师, authors of Tackling Chinese Language Usage ($10.90) and Tackling Higher Chinese Language Usage ($10.90), share with us some tips to excel in this
component.
Q
Why is it important to build a strong foundation in Chinese Language Usage?
刘老师: Questions testing pupils’ language usage skills have a rather high weightage in Chinese/ Higher Chinese Language Paper 2. Pupils’ overall grades will be pulled up if they are able to apply appropriate skills to derive the correct answer. A good grasp of language usage skills is also helpful when attempting comprehension questions as pupils will be able to better understand the passage and recognise what should be included in their answers.
Q How can parents and teachers support and encourage pupils in their learning of Chinese to boost language usage at home and in school?
佩佩老师: Parents can encourage their children to watch news reported in Chinese, read Chinese storybooks, and listen to Chinese songs. Parents can also model good Chinese language usage at home by communicating with each other in Chinese.
刘老师: Teachers can assign suitable reading tasks and practices to build a strong foundation and allow in-depth learning. Teachers can also provide timely feedback to pupils so that they are aware of their mistakes and areas for improvement.
Q Do you have any tips to score well in the Chinese Language Usage component?
雨彤老师: Practice makes perfect. Familiarising yourself with the vocabulary, questions, and examination format plays an integral part in scoring well.
刘老师: Revising the syllabus words is also important. Other than that, remember PUMPS:
P: Remember the Pinyin
U: Understand and differentiate the tested word(s) from similar ones
M: Remember the Meaning
P: Pair the word(s) with commonly associated words
S: Form Sentences using the word(s)
Q How does Tackling Chinese/ Higher Chinese Language Usage help pupils with examination preparation?
佩佩老师, 刘老师 & 雨彤老师: This series by Educational Publishing House is crafted based on the latest MOE curriculum and is closely aligned with current examination topics and question formats. It also offers effective answering strategies and revision word lists to help pupils tackle the examinations with confidence.
刘老师: Questions testing pupils’ language usage skills have a rather high weightage in Chinese/ Higher Chinese Language Paper 2. Pupils’ overall grades will be pulled up if they are able to apply appropriate skills to derive the correct answer. A good grasp of language usage skills is also helpful when attempting comprehension questions as pupils will be able to better understand the passage and recognise what should be included in their answers.
Q How can parents and teachers support and encourage pupils in their learning of Chinese to boost language usage at home and in school?
佩佩老师: Parents can encourage their children to watch news reported in Chinese, read Chinese storybooks, and listen to Chinese songs. Parents can also model good Chinese language usage at home by communicating with each other in Chinese.
刘老师: Teachers can assign suitable reading tasks and practices to build a strong foundation and allow in-depth learning. Teachers can also provide timely feedback to pupils so that they are aware of their mistakes and areas for improvement.
Q Do you have any tips to score well in the Chinese Language Usage component?
雨彤老师: Practice makes perfect. Familiarising yourself with the vocabulary, questions, and examination format plays an integral part in scoring well.
刘老师: Revising the syllabus words is also important. Other than that, remember PUMPS:
P: Remember the Pinyin
U: Understand and differentiate the tested word(s) from similar ones
M: Remember the Meaning
P: Pair the word(s) with commonly associated words
S: Form Sentences using the word(s)
Q How does Tackling Chinese/ Higher Chinese Language Usage help pupils with examination preparation?
佩佩老师, 刘老师 & 雨彤老师: This series by Educational Publishing House is crafted based on the latest MOE curriculum and is closely aligned with current examination topics and question formats. It also offers effective answering strategies and revision word lists to help pupils tackle the examinations with confidence.
Importance of CONTINUOUS PRACTICE in Science
Author of the Primary Science Topical & Thematic Tests series, Nelson Tng, shares about his passion for science and the importance of continuous practice.
Aug 2024 | By Nelson Tng & EPH Editorial Team
Author of the Primary Science Topical & Thematic Tests series, Nelson Tng, shares about his passion for science and the importance of continuous practice.
Aug 2024 | By Nelson Tng & EPH Editorial Team
Author of the Primary Science Topical & Thematic Tests series ($12.90 each) and founder of ScienceGuy Learning, Nelson Tng’s passion for the subject is reflected in his motto, ‘Love Science! To Learn Science!’. Tapping on his experience as a Primary Science Specialist and a former MOE Primary School teacher of more than 16 years, the EPH Editorial Team hears from him on how continuous practice helps pupils achieve excellent grades in their science tests.
Q How did you get started with teaching and writing about science?
My love for interacting with people made me a teacher, and having taught science for so many years in MOE schools, I am very much into writing about science. Science can explain everything in this world! My teaching and writing are meant to simply spread the good word of science to every pupil learning it.
Q What kind of challenges do pupils face while preparing for their science exams and how can they overcome them?
Some pupils only study content and may lack practice on how to produce written answers for said content. They may verbalise content well but do not necessarily know how to apply it in written form. Such pupils should get ample topical practice on writing out answers for the specific topics learnt. On the other hand, some pupils struggle to see the links between topics. These pupils should attempt thematic tests comprising questions from various topics blended together. Such questions allow pupils to learn how to apply multiple concepts simultaneously to craft a complete response to each question.
Pupils can overcome their learning gaps by practising a variety of science questions regularly. Continuous practice helps pupils pick up process skills such as data analysis, observational skills, making predictions, and generating possibilities, among others. Over time, getting the hang of key concepts and answering techniques such as the CER (Claim-Evidence-Reason) approach as recommended by the MOE for application-type questions will also become easier.
Q How can the Primary Science Topical & Thematic Tests series help pupils ace science?
This series has been purposefully crafted to include commonly tested questions, including those in which pupils frequently make mistakes. Key words and phrases, along with the marking scheme, are also given in the answer key for pupils to conduct self-checks. The detailed explanations provided in the answer key for multiplechoice questions further serve as quick notes, reinforcing the subject matter learnt. Pupils can utilise this resource to address their misconceptions and score better in their exams!
My love for interacting with people made me a teacher, and having taught science for so many years in MOE schools, I am very much into writing about science. Science can explain everything in this world! My teaching and writing are meant to simply spread the good word of science to every pupil learning it.
Q What kind of challenges do pupils face while preparing for their science exams and how can they overcome them?
Some pupils only study content and may lack practice on how to produce written answers for said content. They may verbalise content well but do not necessarily know how to apply it in written form. Such pupils should get ample topical practice on writing out answers for the specific topics learnt. On the other hand, some pupils struggle to see the links between topics. These pupils should attempt thematic tests comprising questions from various topics blended together. Such questions allow pupils to learn how to apply multiple concepts simultaneously to craft a complete response to each question.
Pupils can overcome their learning gaps by practising a variety of science questions regularly. Continuous practice helps pupils pick up process skills such as data analysis, observational skills, making predictions, and generating possibilities, among others. Over time, getting the hang of key concepts and answering techniques such as the CER (Claim-Evidence-Reason) approach as recommended by the MOE for application-type questions will also become easier.
Q How can the Primary Science Topical & Thematic Tests series help pupils ace science?
This series has been purposefully crafted to include commonly tested questions, including those in which pupils frequently make mistakes. Key words and phrases, along with the marking scheme, are also given in the answer key for pupils to conduct self-checks. The detailed explanations provided in the answer key for multiplechoice questions further serve as quick notes, reinforcing the subject matter learnt. Pupils can utilise this resource to address their misconceptions and score better in their exams!
Primary 4 Science NEW SYLLABUS
Effective from 2024, here’s how the new Primary 4 Science syllabus differs from the old one.
May 2024 | By EPH Editorial Team
Effective from 2024, here’s how the new Primary 4 Science syllabus differs from the old one.
May 2024 | By EPH Editorial Team
The Primary Science syllabus comprises three components: core ideas, practices, and values, ethics, and attitudes. Five themes — Diversity, Cycles, Interactions, Systems, and Energy — make up the core ideas that encompass the essential concepts of both life and physical sciences. From 2024, a new P4 Science syllabus has come into effect, bringing with it significant changes to the learning trajectory of pupils across all schools.
Of the various changes, two stand out the most. First, the syllabus will no longer be organised into Lower Block (P3/P4) and Upper Block (P5/P6). From 2023, each level will have its own corresponding syllabus. Second, the core themes and the sequence in which they are taught are now fixed and standardised across all schools. Previously, themes taught in P3/P4 were interchangeable and the sequence was at the discretion of individual schools.
For a useful comparison of content covered in the old and new P4 Science syllabuses, you may refer to the table shown here.
To keep pace with the new syllabus, pupils can rely on a comprehensive notes-and-practice package from Educational Publishing House consisting of Primary 4 Science Notes & Practice ($15.90), Primary 4 Science Practice ($15.90), and Primary 4 Science Tests ($13.50). Notes & Practice adopts a holistic approach comprising study notes, worked examples, practices, and reviews that tie in closely with the school textbook. The ‘CER’ feature is also incorporated to encourage scientific enquiry. In addition, through topical questions of various difficulty levels and experiment-centred questions from Science Practice and Science Tests, pupils can further solidify their understanding, fully grasp the subject matter, and develop higher-order thinking skills to score in tests and examinations.
For a useful comparison of content covered in the old and new P4 Science syllabuses, you may refer to the table shown here.
To keep pace with the new syllabus, pupils can rely on a comprehensive notes-and-practice package from Educational Publishing House consisting of Primary 4 Science Notes & Practice ($15.90), Primary 4 Science Practice ($15.90), and Primary 4 Science Tests ($13.50). Notes & Practice adopts a holistic approach comprising study notes, worked examples, practices, and reviews that tie in closely with the school textbook. The ‘CER’ feature is also incorporated to encourage scientific enquiry. In addition, through topical questions of various difficulty levels and experiment-centred questions from Science Practice and Science Tests, pupils can further solidify their understanding, fully grasp the subject matter, and develop higher-order thinking skills to score in tests and examinations.
| Old Lower Block (P3/P4) Syllabus (2014) | New P4 Syllabus (Effective 2024) | |
| Core Themes | Diversity Cycles Interactions Systems Energy |
Systems Cycles Energy |
| Topics | Diversity • Diversity of Living and Non-living Things • Diversity of Materials Interactions • Interaction of Forces (Magnets) Systems • Plant System (Plant Parts and Functions) • Human System (Digestive System) Energy • Energy Forms and Uses (Light and Heat) |
Systems • Plant System (Plant Parts and Functions) • Human System (Digestive System) Cycles • Cycles in Matter and Water (Matter) Energy • Energy Forms and Uses (Light) • Energy Forms and Uses (Heat) |
Four-Step Blueprint to ACING SCIENCE EXAMS
Here are four useful study tips to put you on the path to acing your science exams.
Mar 2024 | By Sandy Ng, co-author of P3 Daily Dose of Science
Here are four useful study tips to put you on the path to acing your science exams.
Mar 2024 | By Sandy Ng, co-author of P3 Daily Dose of Science
Success in science exams requires a combination of good knowledge of concepts,
sufficient preparation, strategic thinking, and a strong dose of tenacity. Use the following four steps to prepare, perform better, and handle the challenges of your exams with renewed confidence.
1 Consistent Revision
There is no shortcut to becoming familiar with concepts. Consistent revision boosts retention, builds foundation, and improves understanding and application of concepts. Make it a point to consolidate and review knowledge learned in class daily and you’ll get into the good habit of doing so in no time.
2 Memorise Standard Answers
We all need help to get started. Memorising standard answers allows you to quickly recall information so that your answers are precise and coherent in the exams. Standard answers are the foundation on which you apply scientific concepts based on the different contexts given. You can then further modify these answers in your own words. Make your own summary sheets and flashcards of standard answers and rope in your parents, siblings, and friends to test you regularly.
3 Practise Different Types of Questions
Attempt past-year exam papers and assessment books regularly, as they provide a wide array of inquiry-based questions where you can hone your understanding of scientific concepts. You will also become more familiar with the exam format, types of questions asked, and recurring themes in the process.
4 Self-Imposed Time Limit
When you adopt a self-imposed time limit in your practices, you learn to allocate time more wisely and ensure all questions are given sufficient thought. This approach also develops your ability to think under pressure, especially when tackling challenging questions which require careful consideration. The general recommendation is to allocate 45 minutes for Section A and 1 hour for Section B. Start with more flexible time intervals and gradually work towards the suggested duration once you get the hang of it. If you need a visual reminder to keep track of time, place a clock in front of you as you work.
Academic progress takes dedication and proactiveness. Commit yourself to the four steps above and your efforts will certainly pay off in your exams. To supplement your revision, you may also utilise the Daily Dose of Science series ($17.90 each) as a daily review companion. This series provides a good range of questions based on real-world applications and comes with suggested answers and explanations to cater for self-directed learning.
There is no shortcut to becoming familiar with concepts. Consistent revision boosts retention, builds foundation, and improves understanding and application of concepts. Make it a point to consolidate and review knowledge learned in class daily and you’ll get into the good habit of doing so in no time.
2 Memorise Standard Answers
We all need help to get started. Memorising standard answers allows you to quickly recall information so that your answers are precise and coherent in the exams. Standard answers are the foundation on which you apply scientific concepts based on the different contexts given. You can then further modify these answers in your own words. Make your own summary sheets and flashcards of standard answers and rope in your parents, siblings, and friends to test you regularly.
3 Practise Different Types of Questions
Attempt past-year exam papers and assessment books regularly, as they provide a wide array of inquiry-based questions where you can hone your understanding of scientific concepts. You will also become more familiar with the exam format, types of questions asked, and recurring themes in the process.
4 Self-Imposed Time Limit
When you adopt a self-imposed time limit in your practices, you learn to allocate time more wisely and ensure all questions are given sufficient thought. This approach also develops your ability to think under pressure, especially when tackling challenging questions which require careful consideration. The general recommendation is to allocate 45 minutes for Section A and 1 hour for Section B. Start with more flexible time intervals and gradually work towards the suggested duration once you get the hang of it. If you need a visual reminder to keep track of time, place a clock in front of you as you work.
Academic progress takes dedication and proactiveness. Commit yourself to the four steps above and your efforts will certainly pay off in your exams. To supplement your revision, you may also utilise the Daily Dose of Science series ($17.90 each) as a daily review companion. This series provides a good range of questions based on real-world applications and comes with suggested answers and explanations to cater for self-directed learning.
2024 O-LEVEL PURE BIOLOGY Examination Structure
What’s in store for the new O-Level Pure Biology examination next year?
Nov 2023 | By EPH Editorial Team
What’s in store for the new O-Level Pure Biology examination next year?
Nov 2023 | By EPH Editorial Team
As 2023 draws to a close, it also marks the end of the present O-Level Science syllabuses. Soon-to-be Secondary 4 students may wonder: how will the
2024 O-Level Science examinations differ from the ones their seniors sat for? In the Mar/Apr 2023 issue, the changes to the syllabuses were discussed. In this issue, let’s explore the changes to the examination structure, specifically for Pure Biology.
For Pure Biology, the number of papers will remain the same — three altogether. The duration, total marks, and overall weighting will remain the same too. Here is the breakdown:
| COMPONENT | MARKS | DURATION | OVERALL WEIGHTING (%) |
| Paper 1: Multiple-choice Questions | 40 | 1 hour | 30 |
| Paper 2: Structured and Free-response Questions | 80 | 1 hour 45 minutes | 50 |
| Paper 3: Practical Questions | 40 | 1 hour 50 minutes | 20 |
No Changes to Structure: Papers 1 and 3
There will be 40 compulsory multiple-choice questions in Paper 1. As the duration will only be an hour, students are advised to spend no more than 1.5 minutes on each question. Also, as there will be no penalty for wrong answers, students are advised to attempt all questions even if they are unsure of the correct answer.
For Paper 3, there will be two to three compulsory questions, each with various parts. While some sections of the syllabus may not have experiments that are feasible within the duration of the paper or constraints of the school’s laboratory inventory, questions on these may still be tested. For example, students may be asked to plan the experiment without actually carrying it out and such questions may be worth up to 5 marks.
Changes to Structure: Paper 2
For Paper 2, while there will still be two sections (A and B), the marks distribution will differ from the present marking scheme. Section A will carry 70 marks (an increase from the present 50 marks) and Section B will carry 10 marks (a decrease from the present 30 marks).
All questions in Section A will be compulsory, including one free-response question and one data-based question as the last two questions. Section B will offer students a choice of one out of two free-response questions to answer. As these data-based and free-response questions may be challenging, students are encouraged to practise diligently with assessment books such as O Level (G3) Fast Forward Biology ($19.90) from Educational Publishing House to instil confidence for the examination.
SCORING AL1 for Mathematics
Instilling effective study habits in your routine is key to scoring AL1 for mathematics.
Aug 2024 | By EPH Editorial Team
Instilling effective study habits in your routine is key to scoring AL1 for mathematics.
Aug 2024 | By EPH Editorial Team
Scoring AL1 for mathematics is the ultimate goal for pupils, but preparing and sitting for the actual exam itself can be nervewracking. To work towards your goal, here are four tips to help.
1 Start Revision Early
Prepare for your exams early. Do not leave your revision until the day or night before, as you need to ensure you have ample time to cover all topics. Starting early will also help to alleviate the stress you may face as compared to doing last-minute revision. Before you start revising, create a study plan. As a general guide, it should include the number of hours to revise per week, the time allocated for each session, and a detailed schedule of all topics to revise. By sticking to a personalised study plan, you will be able to revise each topic systematically without feeling too rushed or disorganised.
2 Know Your Proficiency Level
To revise effectively, you first need an intimate understanding of your proficiency levels in various topics. Which topics are you stronger in? Are there any topics you’re unsure of and require more practice or guidance? Instead of trying to cram everything indiscriminately, plan your study sessions to address specific learning gaps and focus on relevant areas for improvement first. Only by making up for your shortcomings can you see a positive impact on your overall grade.
3 Avoid Common Mistakes
It is only human to err. When it comes to mathematics, you will inevitably find yourself making mistakes from time to time. What is important is that you understand what went wrong and how to rectify it so you get it right the next time. Compile the mistakes you usually make in your practice questions in a notebook and be sure to review them regularly so you do not make similar mistakes again.
4 Practise Regularly
As the saying goes, practice makes perfect. This is especially true if you wish to excel in mathematics. The most effective way to learn mathematics is by doing it, and if you commit to practising regularly, understanding new concepts and applying the right methods will then become more familiar and natural to you over time. Consistent practice will also help to improve your accuracy and speed in the exams.
Achieving AL1 in mathematics is not impossible. Apart from the tips above, reinforce your revision by practising relevant questions that are set according to the exam standard, such as from the TOP Mathematics Practice Papers series ($11.90 - $12.90) by Educational Publishing House. A six-book series written to prepare pupils for their school assessments and exams, each book comprises term practice papers which are pitched at a level of difficulty comparable to the standards of top primary schools in Singapore. Do also keep your eyes peeled for the upcoming updated releases of the other primary levels!
Prepare for your exams early. Do not leave your revision until the day or night before, as you need to ensure you have ample time to cover all topics. Starting early will also help to alleviate the stress you may face as compared to doing last-minute revision. Before you start revising, create a study plan. As a general guide, it should include the number of hours to revise per week, the time allocated for each session, and a detailed schedule of all topics to revise. By sticking to a personalised study plan, you will be able to revise each topic systematically without feeling too rushed or disorganised.
2 Know Your Proficiency Level
To revise effectively, you first need an intimate understanding of your proficiency levels in various topics. Which topics are you stronger in? Are there any topics you’re unsure of and require more practice or guidance? Instead of trying to cram everything indiscriminately, plan your study sessions to address specific learning gaps and focus on relevant areas for improvement first. Only by making up for your shortcomings can you see a positive impact on your overall grade.
3 Avoid Common Mistakes
It is only human to err. When it comes to mathematics, you will inevitably find yourself making mistakes from time to time. What is important is that you understand what went wrong and how to rectify it so you get it right the next time. Compile the mistakes you usually make in your practice questions in a notebook and be sure to review them regularly so you do not make similar mistakes again.
4 Practise Regularly
As the saying goes, practice makes perfect. This is especially true if you wish to excel in mathematics. The most effective way to learn mathematics is by doing it, and if you commit to practising regularly, understanding new concepts and applying the right methods will then become more familiar and natural to you over time. Consistent practice will also help to improve your accuracy and speed in the exams.
Achieving AL1 in mathematics is not impossible. Apart from the tips above, reinforce your revision by practising relevant questions that are set according to the exam standard, such as from the TOP Mathematics Practice Papers series ($11.90 - $12.90) by Educational Publishing House. A six-book series written to prepare pupils for their school assessments and exams, each book comprises term practice papers which are pitched at a level of difficulty comparable to the standards of top primary schools in Singapore. Do also keep your eyes peeled for the upcoming updated releases of the other primary levels!
Primary 4 Maths NEW SYLLABUS
Are you up-to-date with the changes to the revised Primary 4 Maths syllabus from 2024?
May 2024 | By EPH Editorial Team
Are you up-to-date with the changes to the revised Primary 4 Maths syllabus from 2024?
May 2024 | By EPH Editorial Team
The Ministry of Education usually reviews subject syllabuses once every few years to refresh and maintain content relevance. This year, a new Primary 4 Maths syllabus is introduced. The table below provides a summary of the changes.
| Topics Removed | New Topics |
| Time • Measuring time in seconds • 24-hour clock Angles • Quarter, half, and complete turns • 8-point compass |
Nets • Identifying 2D representations of a cube, cuboid, cone, cylinder, prism, and pyramid • Drawing 2D representations of a cube, cuboid, prism, and pyramid • Identifying the nets of 3D solids (cube, cuboid, prism, and pyramid) • Identifying the solid which can be formed by a given net Pie Charts • Reading and interpreting data from pie charts |
Removal of Topics
For the topic of Angles, turns and the 8-point compass have been taken out of the Primary 4 syllabus. However, take note that pupils are still required to learn angle notations, measurement of angles, and drawing of angles.
Another major change is that the topic of Time is no longer covered in Primary 4. It has been brought forward entirely to Primary 3 in 2023.
New Topics
The topic of Nets, previously covered in Primary 6, is now included in the new Primary 4 syllabus. Notably, pupils are also required to draw 2D representations of a cube, cuboid, prism, and pyramid.
Another topic that Primary 4 pupils are required to learn is Pie Charts, which also used to be covered in Primary 6. Pupils are now required to learn to read and interpret data from pie charts earlier.
In particular, the addition of the topics of Nets and Pie Charts, which were previously higher-level topics, might be a cause of concern for parents and pupils. That said, with a receptive learning attitude in class and conscientious effort in revision, pupils will be able to ease into the new syllabus positively. To boost learning efficacy, pupils can refer to Primary 4 Intensive Maths Drills ($12.90), Primary 4 Complete Maths Essentials ($12.90), and Primary 4 Daily Dose of Maths ($17.90) from Educational Publishing House. These supplementary resources have been revised according to the latest syllabus to help pupils adapt to the new syllabus changes.
CONSISTENT PRACTICE in Maths
Author Petra Lee shares her thoughts on her bestselling assessment series, Maths Weekly Revision.
Mar 2024 | By EPH Editorial Team
Author Petra Lee shares her thoughts on her bestselling assessment series, Maths Weekly Revision.
Mar 2024 | By EPH Editorial Team
Driven by her passion for shaping young minds, Petra Lee transitioned from real estate to teaching and was a former MOE Primary School teacher of nearly 20 years. Influenced greatly by her father’s teaching legacy, she advocates for the ethos of consistent practice and is dedicated to nurturing young learners. The EPH Editorial Team speaks with her to find out what went into the making of her bestselling series, Maths Weekly Revision ($11.50 - $11.90).
Q What motivated you to write this series?
The genesis of this series traces back to my late father, the visionary behind its inception. During his time spent teaching in a primary school, my father wanted to help his pupils achieve mastery of the mathematical concepts taught in school, regardless of their learning abilities. However, some pupils fell behind, thus he decided to devote time to revisit previously taught concepts and ensure his pupils were dutifully practising maths questions. Seeing the improvement made by many of his pupils over time, my father witnessed first-hand the importance of consistent practice. Inheriting my father’s steadfast belief in the power of consistent practice, I’ve carried forward his teachings into my own role as an educator. My father and I believed that an assessment series that embraced the values of discipline in consistent practice would serve as the building blocks towards success in maths. Thus, the Maths Weekly Revision series was born.
Q Where did you get the inspiration or ideas for this series?
The fundamental principle which guides us in writing this series is consistent practice as a catalyst for mastery in maths. We draw inspiration and ideas from our classrooms, and try to conceptualise what works for our pupils and put what was practised in class on paper. For instance, pupils who struggle with basic operations like multiplication inspired us to design creative and engaging multiplication booklets. Through consistent practice sessions, they were eventually able to master the multiplication tables while having fun learning.
Q Why is consistent practice important in maths?
Consistent practice allows pupils to solidify their understanding and achieve deeper mastery of concepts. It cultivates a deeper retention of knowledge and enables pupils to navigate complex mathematical problems with confidence.
Q How can this series help pupils excel in maths?
The Maths Weekly Revision series aids pupils in excelling in maths by providing structured and regular practice materials. Inspired by successful classroom strategies, it reinforces key concepts and encourages self-directed learning. This approach helps build a strong foundation, prepares pupils for assessments, and makes maths more engaging and enjoyable.
The genesis of this series traces back to my late father, the visionary behind its inception. During his time spent teaching in a primary school, my father wanted to help his pupils achieve mastery of the mathematical concepts taught in school, regardless of their learning abilities. However, some pupils fell behind, thus he decided to devote time to revisit previously taught concepts and ensure his pupils were dutifully practising maths questions. Seeing the improvement made by many of his pupils over time, my father witnessed first-hand the importance of consistent practice. Inheriting my father’s steadfast belief in the power of consistent practice, I’ve carried forward his teachings into my own role as an educator. My father and I believed that an assessment series that embraced the values of discipline in consistent practice would serve as the building blocks towards success in maths. Thus, the Maths Weekly Revision series was born.
Q Where did you get the inspiration or ideas for this series?
The fundamental principle which guides us in writing this series is consistent practice as a catalyst for mastery in maths. We draw inspiration and ideas from our classrooms, and try to conceptualise what works for our pupils and put what was practised in class on paper. For instance, pupils who struggle with basic operations like multiplication inspired us to design creative and engaging multiplication booklets. Through consistent practice sessions, they were eventually able to master the multiplication tables while having fun learning.
Q Why is consistent practice important in maths?
Consistent practice allows pupils to solidify their understanding and achieve deeper mastery of concepts. It cultivates a deeper retention of knowledge and enables pupils to navigate complex mathematical problems with confidence.
Q How can this series help pupils excel in maths?
The Maths Weekly Revision series aids pupils in excelling in maths by providing structured and regular practice materials. Inspired by successful classroom strategies, it reinforces key concepts and encourages self-directed learning. This approach helps build a strong foundation, prepares pupils for assessments, and makes maths more engaging and enjoyable.
Primary Maths DIAGNOSTIC ASSESSMENT
Here’s a handy evaluative tool to help gauge and track your child’s academic progress.
Nov 2023 | By EPH Editorial Team
Here’s a handy evaluative tool to help gauge and track your child’s academic progress.
Nov 2023 | By EPH Editorial Team
Q What is diagnostic assessment?
Diagnostic assessment is a type of formative assessment designed to gather information about how pupils perform in a particular topic. Usually, a pre-evaluation is given at the start of a lesson and/or a post-evaluation is given at the end of it. The pre-evaluation allows pupils to discover how much prior knowledge they possess about the topic while the post-evaluation shows how much improvement they have made over the course of the lesson.
Diagnostic assessment is a type of formative assessment designed to gather information about how pupils perform in a particular topic. Usually, a pre-evaluation is given at the start of a lesson and/or a post-evaluation is given at the end of it. The pre-evaluation allows pupils to discover how much prior knowledge they possess about the topic while the post-evaluation shows how much improvement they have made over the course of the lesson.
Q Why is diagnostic assessment important?
Diagnostic assessment is an essential tool to understand a pupil’s strengths and weaknesses. It is used to gauge pupils’ levels of knowledge and allow them to become aware of their own learning gaps. This is particularly important as pupils must be able to pinpoint and work on their areas of weakness early to avoid falling behind. In addition, diagnostic assessment also helps teachers and parents determine how best to address the specific learning needs of each child.
Q How does diagnostic assessment help your child in Primary Maths?
Diagnostic assessment is useful to identify specific maths topics, concepts, or application methods your child may face learning difficulties in. It can be administered at home or during maths lessons, and feedback can be given almost instantaneously so your child can learn from their mistakes straightaway. For upper primary pupils who can assess themselves, self-administered diagnostic assessment can encourage independent learning and motivate them in their revision as they strive to do better with every assessment. Furthermore, as diagnostic assessments are mostly informal and not used for formal grading purposes, your child can avoid the anxiety of formal assessments and enjoy a positive learning experience at the same time. To evaluate your child’s understanding and application of mathematical concepts, refer to P1 – P3 Diagnostic Practice in Maths ($12.90 each) by Educational Publishing House. This series consists of a pre-test, a main exercise, and a post-test for each topic to fulfil the learning needs of your child at their own pace.
Diagnostic assessment is an essential tool to understand a pupil’s strengths and weaknesses. It is used to gauge pupils’ levels of knowledge and allow them to become aware of their own learning gaps. This is particularly important as pupils must be able to pinpoint and work on their areas of weakness early to avoid falling behind. In addition, diagnostic assessment also helps teachers and parents determine how best to address the specific learning needs of each child.
Q How does diagnostic assessment help your child in Primary Maths?
Diagnostic assessment is useful to identify specific maths topics, concepts, or application methods your child may face learning difficulties in. It can be administered at home or during maths lessons, and feedback can be given almost instantaneously so your child can learn from their mistakes straightaway. For upper primary pupils who can assess themselves, self-administered diagnostic assessment can encourage independent learning and motivate them in their revision as they strive to do better with every assessment. Furthermore, as diagnostic assessments are mostly informal and not used for formal grading purposes, your child can avoid the anxiety of formal assessments and enjoy a positive learning experience at the same time. To evaluate your child’s understanding and application of mathematical concepts, refer to P1 – P3 Diagnostic Practice in Maths ($12.90 each) by Educational Publishing House. This series consists of a pre-test, a main exercise, and a post-test for each topic to fulfil the learning needs of your child at their own pace.
Upper Secondary Geography NEW SYLLABUS
Here's how the new Upper Secondary Geography syllabus differs from the previous one.
Aug 2024 | By Shermaine Wee, Sherlyn Loo & EPH Editorial Team
Here's how the new Upper Secondary Geography syllabus differs from the previous one.
Aug 2024 | By Shermaine Wee, Sherlyn Loo & EPH Editorial Team
One significant change to the 2023 Geography syllabus is the reorganisation of content. The new syllabus is structured into five clusters: Geography in Everyday Life, Tourism, Climate, Tectonics, and Singapore. This new structure provides a broader and deeper coverage of geographical topics, ensuring students gain a comprehensive understanding of both local and global issues.
A second key difference is the introduction of the new clusters, Geography in Everyday Life and Singapore (for Geography only). The Geography in Everyday Life cluster grounds geographical concepts in familiar environments, forming a foundation for understanding different contexts presented in the subsequent clusters. The Singapore cluster examines Singapore’s human and physical characteristics, along with its opportunities and challenges, through a geographical lens.
The third key difference is the introduction of flexibility in the Humanities (Geography) syllabus. Schools can now choose between the Climate and Tectonics clusters, in addition to the mandatory Geography in Everyday Life and Tourism clusters. For the Geography syllabus, students must learn all clusters.
The differences between the old and new syllabuses are outlined in the table shown on the right.
To keep pace with the new syllabus, students can refer to Fast Forward Geography (Upper Secondary) ($14.90), which includes practice papers aligned with the latest assessment requirements. Tips and marks schemes are also included in the answers. Lower Secondary students can refer to Fast Forward Geography (Secondary One/ Two) ($13.90 each).
The third key difference is the introduction of flexibility in the Humanities (Geography) syllabus. Schools can now choose between the Climate and Tectonics clusters, in addition to the mandatory Geography in Everyday Life and Tourism clusters. For the Geography syllabus, students must learn all clusters.
The differences between the old and new syllabuses are outlined in the table shown on the right.
To keep pace with the new syllabus, students can refer to Fast Forward Geography (Upper Secondary) ($14.90), which includes practice papers aligned with the latest assessment requirements. Tips and marks schemes are also included in the answers. Lower Secondary students can refer to Fast Forward Geography (Secondary One/ Two) ($13.90 each).
| 2014 Syllabus (Old) | 2023 Syllabus (New) |
| Geography | |
| Physical Geography • Coasts — Should coastal environments matter? • Living with Tectonic Hazards — Risk or opportunity? • Variable Weather and Changing Climate — A continuing challenge? Human Geography • Global Tourism — Is tourism the way to go? • Food Resources — Is technology a panacea for food shortage? • Health and Diseases — Are we more vulnerable than before? |
• Cluster 1: Geography in Everyday Life (New) • Cluster 2: Tourism • Cluster 3: Climate • Cluster 4: Tectonics • Cluster 5: Singapore (New) |
| Humanities (Geography) | |
| Physical Geography • Living with Tectonic Hazards — Risk or opportunity? • Variable Weather and Changing Climate — A continuing challenge? (excludes Key Question 3) Human Geography • Global Tourism — Is tourism the way to go? • Food Resources — Is technology a panacea for food shortage? (excludes Key Question 3) |
• Cluster 1: Geography in Everyday Life (New) • Cluster 2: Tourism • Cluster 3: Climate OR Cluster 4: Tectonics |