iSSues Explorer (July 2022)

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JULY 2022

i ues explorer

Contents SPARK! Secondary 4N(T) Book 4: How can we make Singapore a better place for everyone?

ENGAGE

Ukraine-Russia Crisis: Global Responses and Impacts in a Globalised World

VOICES The Value of Social Studies: What Do Our Students Say?

GLOW UP! Resources for Teachers

SLS RESOURCES Planning Ahead: SLS Lessons for August 2022

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We hope these resources will be useful to you!

From all of us in the Social Studies (Secondary) Unit, Humanities Branch!

Email us!

CONTENTS

If you know any Social Studies teachers who have not been receiving our e-newsletters; or are not on our mailing list (especially Beginning Teachers); please drop us an email at SIM_Jie_Kai@moe.gov.sg

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Spark!

Secondary 4 Normal (Technical)

Book 4: How can we make Singapore a better place for everyone?

Introduction This section provides a lesson idea based on two SLS lessons for Book 4 of the 2020 Normal (Technical) syllabus.

Students will examine the topic “Building a Caring Nation and an Inclusive Society”. They will learn about how youths can care for society; and become active citizens in building an inclusive society through youth volunteerism.

The lesson also allows students to think about the broader Inquiry Focus:

The SLS lessons can be accessed via the links below:

Book 4 - 18-Year-Olds Step Up to Volunteer Amid Covid-19 Pandemic Book 4 - Yolden 2019 – Youth Corps Singapore Refer to Lesson Ideas 17 and 18 for more detailed guidance on facilitating this lesson.

How can we make Singapore a better place for everyone?

Teacher preparation Prepare resources that depict the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the following groups of people: Homebound elderly who are unable to prepare or buy meals Persons with disabilities Persons with mental health issues Low-income families

STP Teaching Action: Using Stories and Images Click here for further guidance on using this STP Teaching Action to activate students’ prior knowledge and spark their curiosity to uncover how they can help meet these needs in society.

Teachers may consider using resources such as pictures, videos, personal recounts and newspaper articles to depict different needs in society.

SPARK! 4N(T) BOOK 4

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SPARKING CURIOSITY by activating prior knowledge Project the images or stories on the screen, and have students: identify the possible needs of the people in the resources; and think about how they can help these people meet their needs.

Invite some students to share their responses with the class.

Link students’ responses to the definition of youth volunteerism.

Ask students to reflect about a time when they volunteered. Some possible questions: How did their volunteer work help meet the needs of society?

How did it teach them the value of youth volunteerism?

Invite some students to share their volunteer experiences.

Categorise their experiences as “Self-initiated” or “Part of an existing project”.

GATHERING DATA through self-directed SLS activity Have students to complete either SLS lesson depending on their interest: Book 4 - 18-Year-Olds Step Up to Volunteer Amid Covid-19 Pandemic

SPARK! 4N(T) BOOK 4

Clarify Misconceptions

Have students share whether they think the following statements are true or false, and justify their response: Only people in privileged positions can volunteer and contribute.

Only people with plenty of free time can volunteer.

Only people with certain skills and qualifications can volunteer.

Blended Learning Opportunity!

1) Using a virtual meeting platform (e.g., Zoom), split students into smaller breakout rooms to watch either video 1 or 2.

A smaller group setting would provide students greater opportunity to share their views.

2) In their groups, have students share and discuss their views to the questions in the SLS lesson.

The group can then populate their responses collaboratively via an online platform (e.g., Jamboard).

3) Upon returning to the main room, randomly select students to share their responses with the class.

Encourage students to add on to the sharing of previous students(s) by drawing on other ideas discussed in their groups.

Book 4 - Yolden 2019 – Youth Corps Singapore

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EXERCISING REASONING through Class discussion Facilitate pair discussions (e.g., Think-PairShare) on how the youth volunteerism that they saw in the videos can help meet the needs of different groups of people.

REFLECTIVE THINKING on what students have learnt Prompt students to think about their interests and one area of volunteerism they would like to commit to.

Invite students to share their responses with the class.

Highlight the importance of caring for and empathising with people with different needs.

STP Teaching Action: Think-Pair-Share Click here for further guidance on using this STP Teaching Action to help students learn actively as they discuss questions in pairs and with the whole class.

Extension of Learning & Real-Life Application

As an extension of students’ learning, consider grouping students with similar interests and suggesting that they initiate their own volunteering project or join an existing one.

How Does This Lesson Reflect The Inquiry Process?

1. Sparking the Inquiry Process Students activate their prior knowledge through stories and images depicting real-life examples.

4. Reflective Thinking Students reflect on their understanding of what it means to care for different needs in society. They also actively reflect on how they can contribute to meeting these needs.

SPARK! 4N(T) BOOK 4

2. Gathering Data Students gather ideas and information from videos on youth volunteerism and their classmates’ responses.

3. Exercising Reasoning Students hone their critical thinking skills by providing justification for their responses and exploring differing views from their classmates during classroom discussions.

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Engage!

Ukraine-Russia Crisis: Global Responses and Effects in a Globalised World This think piece invites students to reflect on Singapore’s response to a global security issue and examines the effects arising from being part of a globalised world.

Globalisation has made our world more interconnected than ever before, as the expansion of international trade has provided access to global markets and accelerated economic growth.

However, multilateral trade does not exist in a vacuum – it can be driven or impeded by global security concerns, which cause countries to adopt sanctions and regulations that restrict trade between countries.

In this regard, the interconnectedness and interdependence of our economies is inevitably a potential vulnerability for countries. Today, this is more evident than ever in the worldwide economic impact of the Ukraine-Russia crisis.

Context: Sanctions against Russia In response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, many countries, including Singapore, have imposed sanctions on Russia in the name of security. These sanctions aim to cripple Russia’s economy and constrain its capacity to conduct its war in Ukraine and cyber aggression. [1] While Russia has effectively been isolated from the global financial system, [2] the imposition of sanctions and trade restrictions on Russia has implications for the rest of the world now and even in years to come. The International Monetary Fund likened the economic effects of the conflict to an “earthquake” and slashed its expectations of global economic growth for the next two years. [3] ENGAGE | GLOBAL RESPONSES AND IMPACTS IN A GLOBALISED WORLD

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Implications Increased prices, supply chain disruptions, higher operating costs As countries coordinate to halt imports and exports to Russia, the supply of energy commodities has been further disrupted against the backdrop of the COVID19 pandemic. [4] Scarcity of these products has led to a spike in energy prices, especially since Russia is the world’s third largest oil producer, second largest natural gas producer and among the top five producers of key metals. [5] As energy commodities are raw materials, the increased prices will eventually have ripple effects on the prices of consumer goods worldwide.

Gas prices have fluctuated by as much as

70% in a single day. [2]

Multinational corporations (MNCs) which rely heavily on global supply chains have seen their operating costs rise immensely. Many MNCs, such as Shell and Netflix, have also stopped operating in Russia to take a stand against the country’s actions. Undoubtedly, this has taken a toll on these MNCs’ profit margins, forcing them to adapt to new ways of operating, such as building a more diversified supply chain and turning to focus their businesses locally or regionally. [6]

Food insecurity Together, Russia and Ukraine export approximately 12 per cent of all the food calories that are traded worldwide. The two countries export almost 30 per cent of the world’s wheat, 20 per cent of the world’s corn and more than 80 per cent of the world’s sunflower oil.

The number of people who are undernourished could increase by 8 million to

13 million worldwide in 2023. [8]

With the Ukraine-Russian war ongoing, harvests from Ukraine cannot be transported out of the country. At the same time, Russia, the world’s largest fertiliser exporter, has suspended fertiliser exports, which will affect farming capabilities around the world. [7] It is little surprise then that global food prices have skyrocketed, and food security around the world is threatened.

ENGAGE | GLOBAL RESPONSES AND IMPACTS IN A GLOBALISED WORLD

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Interconnected fates: Global responses and tensions The state of interconnectedness of our global economy has enabled countries around the world to rally together against a political aggressor – notably, the imposition of sanctions on Russia and weaponry support for Ukraine. [9] Notwithstanding, as outlined above, these economic and political responses also have costs and repercussions for countries around the world.

Singapore appears relatively cushioned against the immediate effects of the sanctions as our direct trade exposure with Russia is minimal. [10] Nonetheless, our reliance on global trade leaves us greatly vulnerable to changes in the global economy driven by the Ukraine-Russia crisis. [11]

Questions for class discussion 1) During the May Day Rally 2022, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong shared the following about the impact of the Ukraine-Russia conflict: Russia’s attack on Ukraine has undermined the global order: the basic rules and norms for countries, big or small, to interact properly with one another…It is bad for every country, but especially for small states like Singapore. Our security, our very existence depends on the international rule of law. That is why Singapore has taken a strong stand, condemned the attack and imposed targeted sanctions against Russia. [12]

What are your thoughts about what PM Lee has shared? Do you think it is necessary for Singapore to impose sanctions on Russia? Why or why not?

2) Despite its limited direct trade with Russia, Singapore is still vulnerable to changes in the global economy driven by the Ukraine-Russia crisis. What do you think are some effects of these changes on Singapore and Singaporeans?

[1] https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Newsroom/Press-Statements-Transcripts-and-Photos/2022/03/20220305sanctions#:~:text=SINGAPORE'S%20FINANCIAL%20MEASURES%20IN%20RELATION,activities%20benefiting%20the%20Russian%20government.

[2] https://foreignpolicy.com/2022/04/05/ukraine-russia-war-world-economy/# [3] https://edition.cnn.com/2022/04/19/investing/imf-economic-outlook/index.html [4] https://www.channelnewsasia.com/commentary/singapore-sanctions-russia-ukraine-war-economic-impact-prices-petrol-electricity-2614031 [5] https://www.coface.com/News-Publications/News/Economic-consequences-of-the-Russia-Ukraine-conflict-Stagflation-ahead [6] https://thediplomat.com/2022/04/how-does-the-russia-ukraine-war-affect-asias-political-economy/ [7] https://www.wired.com/story/the-war-in-ukraine-is-threatening-the-breadbasket-of-europe/ [8] https://www.channelnewsasia.com/world/un-agency-warns-ukraine-war-could-trigger-20-food-price-rise-2558401 [9] https://theconversation.com/ukraine-receives-weapons-support-from-around-the-world-182266 [10] https://www.channelnewsasia.com/commentary/singapore-sanctions-russia-ukraine-war-economic-impact-prices-petrol-electricity-2614031 [11] https://www.straitstimes.com/business/economy/indirect-exposure-to-russia-ukraine-war-are-key-risks-to-singapore-economy-says-mas [12] https://www.pmo.gov.sg/Newsroom/PM-Lee-Hsien-Loong-at-May-Day-Rally-2022

ENGAGE | GLOBAL RESPONSES AND IMPACTS IN A GLOBALISED WORLD

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Voices!

The Value of Social Studies: What Do Our Students Say?

In the previous issue, we explored teachers’ perspectives on Social Studies (SS) – teachers from different schools candidly shared their reflections on teaching the subject and their stories of engaging their students on societal issues. If you have not had the chance to read it, check it out here!

Thank you, teachers, for your hard work and heartwork in moulding our students into informed, concerned and participative citizens! In this issue, let’s explore what our students have to say and their experiences in SS classrooms!

Our students appreciate gaining knowledge about our society and the world through SS lessons.

I always looked forward to SS lessons because it is a very meaningful subject. It taught me about developments in Singapore and in the world – it feels great to be able to better understand the world that I am living in.

My favourite topic in SS would be globalisation. It was interesting to learn about concepts such as hybridisation, where foreign food cultures have been adopted by local food cultures to create new food products which are loved by many Singaporeans, such as the nasi lemak burger!

- Danielle, Regent Secondary School (took SS from 2020 to 2021)

They also hone their critical thinking skills and perspective-taking skills….

My main takeaway from SS is how it has helped me better analyse information and news articles. I enjoyed doing source-based questions as they challenged me to think critically about sources and information that I read.

VOICES! WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY ABOUT THE VALUE OF SOCIAL STUDIES

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SS has also helped me to gain a better understanding of the issues that affect Singapore and the rest of the world.

Examining societal issues enabled me to consider the perspectives of different stakeholders – something I would not have done prior to studying the subject.

- Megan Teo, Anglican High School (took SS from 2017 to 2018)

… and develop an enduring sense of curiosity about our world and a stronger desire to engage with the issues around us!

SS lessons have made me a more inquisitive student as I often leave the lessons intrigued with many questions about our world.

It was exciting to learn about the various topics, and the issues we learnt in Social Studies fill me with curiosity about our world.

- Addison, St Gabriel’s Secondary School (current SS student)

SS sparked in me a curiosity about real-world issues. Lessons were filled with interactive activities – with the use of online platforms like Padlet, I had opportunities to work with my classmates to analyse various perspectives before reaching a well-reasoned conclusion about a particular issue. SS helped me to understand the developments in our society and the world, and my role in shaping the future of our nation.

Now that I have graduated, I continue to read widely, especially on current affairs, and watch the news daily. This has helped to increase my exposure to current events and encourage me to have conversations with my parents on these issues. SS is a subject that has inculcated in me a deeper understanding of our society and the world.

- Javian Lee, Regent Secondary School (took SS from 2020 to 2021)

VOICES! WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY ABOUT THE VALUE OF SOCIAL STUDIES

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To our fellow teachers, we hope that our students’ sharing has encouraged you and struck you with a deeper conviction of the importance of the work we do in the classroom. At times, we might not see the immediate outcomes of our labour, but we can be rest assured that our efforts will culminate and eventually bear fruit! Press on!

We hope the stories shared by teachers and students thus far have resonated with you and inspired you on this SS education journey. Some of you may also have your own unique memories and experiences that highlight the value of SS. The Social Studies (Secondary) Unit is still on the lookout for good stories from the fraternity and our students, current and past, about how SS education has had a positive impact on their lives. Do continue to share with us your stories and encourage your students to do so as well!

VOICES! WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY ABOUT THE VALUE OF SOCIAL STUDIES

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Glow Up! Watch this video to find out more about the suite of professional development opportunities and resources available to teachers!

SLS Catalogue

SSS Wikipage

The catalogue is regularly refreshed with new SLS lessons!

Access useful resources for the teaching and learning of Social Studies for the E/N(A) and N(T) syllabuses.

Click HERE for the SLS catalogue or scan the QR code!

Access the SSS Wikipage HERE or scan the QR code.

Share Your Feedback With Us We hope you found the articles in iSSues Explorer useful!

We want to continue providing you with relevant and useful resources for your teaching and learning of Social Studies.

We invite you to share your feedback and ideas HERE or scan the QR code.

GLOW UP!

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SLS Resources

RECOMMENDED FOR

Aug

Recommended for E/N(A) SEC 3 EXPRESS

SEC 3 N(A)

SEC 4E/5N(A)

Source Investigation

Source Investigation

Practice

What are the experiences and effects of living in a diverse society?

What are the experiences and effects of living in a diverse society?

Responses to Tensions Arising from Cultural Impact of Globalisation (Example on Streaming Platforms)

Recommended for N(T) SEC 1

SEC 2

SEC 3

Issue 2, Chapter 3 Periods 16 and 17

Issue 4, Chapter 2 Periods 16 and 17

Issue 5, Chapter 4 Periods 23 and 24

Book 1B – Checking Casey (Chapter 3)

Book 2B - Zero Waste Challenge

Book 3 – Budget 2017 How Feedback is Collected for the Budget

Sec 1

Sec 1

Contribute to the SLS Community Gallery SLS RESOURCES (LESSONS FOR AUGUST)

Share your lesson URL with us HERE or scan the QR code.

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