The General Paper syllabus is designed to equip students with critical and inventive thinking skills and the use of the English language for effective communication. The syllabus requires students to actively explore a range of key issues of local, regional and global significance. These issues cut across disciplines and are explored from diverse perspectives. Students develop fair consideration of, and respect for different perspectives, appreciate the interrelationship of ideas, and become more adept at interpreting and evaluating the complexities of the world we live in. At the same time, they develop the disposition of active inquiry, the habit of reflection, and the willingness to convey their views in a balanced and thoughtful manner. Students are also encouraged to contribute constructively towards their communities. Underpinning all these are sound values which will help guide students in making responsible decisions in life and for life.
This year as we moved towards e-learning, we designed weekly online modules that would build up students’ content knowledge and model how to apply this knowledge to P1 questions. The modules helped to organise the most salient issues in a topic for students using a variety of sources including articles, podcasts, videos, quizes, and specialised lectures from GP tutors.
In addition, the modules were designed to be standalone and self-contained which allowed greater flexibility for students to organise when they would complete these modules.
One of the highlights of our HBL modules involved inviting the Assurance, Care, and Engagement (ACE) group from the Ministry of Manpower to share their experience with supporting migrant workers during the dormitory crisis last year.
Students attending the session were able to send in questions before and during the live session.