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What is Combined Humanities? Combined Humanities is a compulsory ‘N’ and ‘O’ level subject which was introduced in 2001. The first batch to sit for the Combined Humanities was in 2002. Students must study Social Studies (50% of the Combined Humanities subject) together with an elective subject – History, Geography or Literature which will make up the other 50% of the Combined Humanities subject. How are students assessed for Combined Humanities? Students will sit for two separate examination papers – Social Studies (1 ½ hours) and an elective subject (1 ½ hours). Each paper carries a 50% weightage. What is Social Studies? Social Studies is basically about Singapore. The themes covered in Social Studies revolve around the six National Education messages, and focus on issues pertaining to the historical, economic and social development of Singapore. Students also learn regional and international issues that are relevant to Singapore’s development. Why study Social Studies? There is a need for students to become more aware about Singapore’s independence and development after 1965. This so that they will be able to understand how Singapore overcame the odds or constraints in the past and how Singapore can be better prepared to face the challenges in the 21st century. Students are also kept abreast of issues that directly affect Singapore manages the present challenges. By drawing lessons from other countries, Singapore can be better prepared to face the challenges in the 21st century. Students are also kept abreast of issues that directly affect Singapore. Why must foreign students take Social Studies? Since they are studying in Singapore, it is good for them to know more about Singapore. The issues discussed in Social Studies are also relevant for them. They can always reflect about their own country and how their country is handling the challenges. Can I offer another Humanities subject? In this school, we currently have only one Humanities subject i.e. the Combined Humanities although other schools may offer 2 Humanities subjects i.e. Combined Humanities and another pure Humanities subject such as History, Geography or Literature. Is doing well in Combined Humanities important? It is important to do well in every subject that you are studying for. If you are planning to continue your studies in a Junior College or a Pre-U centre, Combined Humanities is one of the required subjects. Your Combined Humanities grade will be tabulated as part of your L1R4/R5. Certain courses in the polytechnics would also require you to offer Combined Humanities as one of your relevant subjects. How do I study for Social Studies? Students should understand the topics well and learn the skills in answering source-based case study and structured-essay questions. The compulsory source-based case study is set on any of the themes in the syllabus while each of the structured-essay questions is set on a different theme in the syllabus. Students should note that the source-based case-study need not be based on the textbook. Thus it will be good for students to read widely on the issues that are covered in the textbook. What is the assessment format for Social Studies? Students will attempt one compulsory source-based case study and choose one of the three structured-essay questions. Each structured-essay question comprises 2 sub-questions. Do I need to keep up with the current developments relating to the issues learned in Social Studies? The content in the textbook is sufficient. However, it is always good to keep yourself updated on the issues and developments happening in Singapore and in other countries. It will certainly widen your knowledge and understanding of what is happening around the world. What is the subject code for Combined Humanities? For students sitting for the ‘N’ level examination from 2008 onwards, the subject codes for Combined Humanities are 2193/1 (Social Studies) and 2193/2 (Geography Elective) For students sitting for the ‘O’ level examination from 2008 onwards, the subject codes for Combined Humanities are as follow :- Sec 4 Express - 2192/1 (Social Studies) AND 2192/2 (Geography Elective) OR 2192/3 (History Elective) 2192/4 (Literature Elective) Sec 5 Normal – 2190/1 (Social Studies) AND 2190/2 (Geography Elective)
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