Social Studies S3 Past Paper PDF

Social Studies Integrated humanities for S3, brief notes and overview Chapter 1 What does citizenship mean to me 1.1 Legal Status: What are some ways to gain legal status as a citizen of a country? some ways people can obtain legal status as citizens; and the ways people can become...

Social Studies Integrated humanities for S3, brief notes and overview Chapter 1 What does citizenship mean to me 1.1 Legal Status: What are some ways to gain legal status as a citizen of a country? some ways people can obtain legal status as citizens; and the ways people can become citizens in Singapore. Birth: born in that country Descent: one of the parents are citizens Marriage: their spouse is a citizen Naturalisation: applying to become a citizen Specific to Singapore Singapore does not allow dual citizenship A child who is born in Singapore and has one parent who has Singapore citizenship is granted citizenship automatically A child who is not born in Singapore but has a parent who has Singapore citizenship will not be granted citizenship 1.1.1 Legal status (rights of citizens): How do citizens' rights shape their understanding of citizenship? some rights that citizens of a country can have; how these rights should be exercised; and how citizens' rights can shape their understanding of citizenship. We must use our rights responsibly We have several rights like free education, freedom to speak, freedom of religion 1.1.2 Legal status (obligations of citizens): How do citizens' obligations shape their understanding of citizenship? some obligations of citizens; why citizens need to fulfil their obligations; and how citizens' obligations can shape their understanding of citizenship. Examples of obligations Paying taxes (contribute to the country’s revenue) Obeying the law Defending the nation (contribute to the defence of Singapore) 1.2 Sense of identity: How does a sense of identity shape citizens' 1  understanding of citizenship? how people can develop a sense of identity in their country; and how the sense of identity can shape their understanding of citizenship. Defining a sense of identity This means that citizens feel they belong to the country, even when they are studying or working overseas. They feel they have a sense of connectedness and something in common with other citizens. 1.3 Shared values: How do shared values shape citizens' understanding of citizenship? some values shared by Singaporeans; some factors that shaped the shared values in Singapore; and how citizens' shared values can shape their understanding of citizenship. Is it important for citizens to share similar values? strengthen citizens' sense of identity towards the country. (openness and multiculturalism,) Sense of connectedness with one another. They will take action to bring about a better society. What factors shaped the values of citizens? Singapore's multicultural population and heritage. ○ Allowed Singaporeans to experience the richness of different cultures. For example, Singaporeans enjoy food from different cultural groups. Hence, Singaporeans appreciate multiculturalism. Certain experiences ○ One such experience was the Circuit Breaker to manage the COVID-19 pandemic in Singapore in 2020. Such experiences "forced" Singaporeans to adapt to get through the difficult time. 1.4 Civic participation: How does civic participation shape citizens' understanding of citizenship? How citizens can participate in public affairs and how civic participation shapes one’s understanding of citizenship Some facts on civic participation People can participate by volunteering ○ With informal groups or formal groups, such as Food from the Heart People’s motivations differ ○ to participate in public affairs because they wish to address societal issues or help certain groups of people in the country. People’s views differ ○ Some people may view civic participation as an important way they can contribute to their country. But others may view being personally 2  responsible and taking care of family members as ways they meet the country's needs. How do citizens partake in civic participation? As individuals volunteer their time, effort and money in matters they are concerned about. Citizens with common interests or purposes can also organise themselves into community groups to contribute to the specific needs of society. These groups can be formal groups or informal groups 3 Chapter 2: What are the functions and roles of government in working for the good of society? A. 2. Government in a Representative Democracy: What is a representative democracy? what a representative democracy refers to; how Singapore practises representative democracy; and the role that citizens play in a representative democracy. What does a representative democracy refer to? In a representative democracy, citizens elect representatives to form the government. These elected representatives make decisions on behalf of the citizens How does Singapore practice democracy? It allows citizens to elect political representatives to govern the country on their behalf In Singapore, every adult Singaporean has the right to vote. No group of people should have difficulty voting Voting is compulsory and every voter is entitled to one vote in each election. Voting is free from fraud, ballots are counted accurately What is the importance of allowing citizens to vote in the elections Allows citizens to choose the representatives that they believe can make the best choices to better the country Every vote counts, and each vote sends a signal of what the voter wants the future of the country to be. 4  B. 2.1 Functions of government: What are the three functions of government? the three functions of government; and the three branches of government that carry out these functions. The branches The Legislature The Executive The Judiciary Their respective Making and Enforcing and Interpreting and functions passing laws implementing laws applying laws C. 2.1.1 Functions of government: How does the Legislature make and pass laws? Importance of laws Regulate behaviour and practices to benefit society as a whole 5 How is a bill made into a law? First Reading ○ When the Bill is introduced by a Minister at the first reading, copies are distributed to Members of Parliament (MPs). They will study the Bill and prepare questions and comments for the next reading. Second reading ○ MPs will ask questions and debate over the Bill ○ and different views on how the Bill may impact society can be raised. This ensures that the law that is passed eventually can benefit society. Committee stage ○ The bill is further reviewed Third reading ○ MPs vote on whether to pass the bill during the Third Reading. ○ In the Third Reading, the debate is limited to only minor amendments such as spelling and language errors. However, if there are any further disagreements or amendments, the Bill can be recommitted to the Committee Stage. Presidential council for minority rights ○ The bill must be scrutinised by the PCMR to ensure that the Bill does not discriminate against any racial or religious community. Presidential assent Gazetting D 2.1.2 Functions of government: How does the Executive implement and enforce laws? In this lesson, you learnt that the Executive enforces and implements laws passed by the Legislature. It also formulates and implements government policies in areas such as education, healthcare, housing and transport. It is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the affairs of the state. The work of the Executive is supported by various ministries and statutory boards. E. 2.1.3 Functions of government: How does the Judiciary interpret and apply laws? Family Justice courts State courts Supreme court Youth Courts Community the High Court which hear cases Criminal Court which hears civil relating to which hears and criminal children and cases such as cases as well as 6  young persons; those involving appeals from Family Courts youthful offenders State Courts; and which hear all (aged 16-21); and Court of Appeal family abuse and cruelty which hears proceedings to animals; appeals against except Youth Coroner's Court the High Court's Courts' cases; holds inquiry decisions High Court when, for (Family Division) example, there is which hears a reason to appeals against suspect a person decisions made in died suddenly and Youth Courts and unnaturally; Family Courts. Migistrate Courts hear civil cases of lower monetary value and criminal cases involving lower penalties. The Judiciary carries out the function of interpreting and applying laws so as to administer justice. The courts make formal judgements on disputes between individuals and on those between individuals and the government. In making these judgements, the Courts are not allowed to interpret and apply laws in any way they want. Instead, they are guided by various principles. 4 principles to guide the court's judgement 1. Proportionate punishment ☺ The sentence must match the crime 2. Deterrence ☺ Deter criminals from committing the same crime 3. Prevention ☺ Prevent criminals from causing harm to society 4. Rehabilitation ☺ Help offenders turn over a new leaf Different types of sentences 1. Imprisonment 2. Community-based sentences 3. Probation 4. Fines 7 F. 2.1 Functions of government: Why is there a separation of powers between the three branches of government? This separation of powers between the three branches prevents the concentration of power within a small select group. It also allows each branch of government to check that the other branches do not act illegally or irresponsibly. In this way, the separation of powers ensures that the government remains fair and accountable to the people. G. 2.2.2 Roles of government: How does the government ensure the economic and social well-being of citizens? What does economic and social well-being refer to? has his or her basic needs for food, water and shelter met, and has the opportunity to pursue his or her goals and enjoy a satisfactory quality of life. 8 Basic Needs Pursuing Goals Healthcare (social) Skills Future program ☑ $4000 Medisave grant and ☑ Skill-focused programs relevant to subsidies for new-borns industry needs for career ☑ Singaporeans pay $0-$5 for health development screening with Screen or Life ☑ Opening skills future credit when ☑ 10-12 new polyclinics by 2030 Singaporeans turn 25 to encourage continuous learning Economic (use credits to enjoy a satisfactory ☑ CPF(Central Provident Fund) life) comprehensive savings plan that ○ to attend courses they are provides a foundation for the interested in and pursue retirement of most Singaporeans. their interests. ☑ The Ordinary Account savings can ○ attend courses to upgrade be used to pay for housing so their skills so that they can Singaporeans have a place to live be more employable. in. ○ Being able to find jobs and ☑ The Medisave Account savings get a steady income allows can be used to pay for medical Singaporeans to meet their expenses. basic needs 9 Chapter 3: How Do We Decide What is Good for Society? A. 3.1.1 Challenges in deciding what is good for society: How do differing needs and interests make it challenging to decide what is good for society? Different types of needs 1. Basic needs (food, water, shelter) 2. Needs for well-being Examples of differing needs 🩺 🧑‍💼 Affordable post-secondary education Affordable healthcare 📚 Employment opportunities Mental and emotional wellbeing🫶 🏢 Safety and Security 🔒 🚌 More post-secondary education options Effective public transport B. 3.1.1 Challenges in deciding what is good for society: Why did citizens have different views on home-based learning? (Connect and Construct) Basically 1. Analyse question 2. Connect to what I know 3. Construct an answer (link back to why might this happen?) for eg why must the elderly need a non-slip floor? So they won't get hurt?? C. 3.1.2 Challenges in deciding what is good for society: How do differing priorities make it challenging to decide what is good for society? Eg Ulu Pandan case study In December 2020, the Housing and Development Board (HDB) announced that Build-To-Order (BTO) flats would be launched in Ulu Pandan where Dover Forest 10  is located. The Nature Society Singapore (NSS) raised concerns about this move, citing the need to protect wildlife, including threatened species, in Dover Forest. The decision made by the government? The western half of the Ulu Pandan area would be retained as a nature park. The eastern half of Ulu Pandan was set aside for housing due to the significant demand for public housing in Singapore D. 3.1.3 Challenges in deciding what is good for society: How does unequal sharing of costs make it challenging to decide what is good for society? The unequal sharing of costs refers to the varying impacts that a decision has on different groups of people. While a decision may benefit society in general, it can harm certain groups of people. A case study elder care centres in void deck woodlands who might benefit from the building of the elder-care centre in Woodlands? Elderly who live in the area where the elder-care centre would be built Residents in the area who have elderly parents who might go to the elder-care centre what were some benefits of building the elder care centre in Woodlands? People living in the area would be better supported in their efforts to care for their elderly parents. It would be convenient for people to send their parents to the centre when they go to work and fetch their parents home at night. The well-being of elderly residents in Woodlands could be looked after. The elderly residents in Woodlands can go to the elder-care centre near their homes. In this way, they can remain in an environment that they are familiar with and comfortable with, instead of going to unfamiliar nursing homes. What might be some negative impact resulting from the building of the elder-care centre in Woodlands? The area might be overcrowded. Some residents argued that the area was already overcrowded with other public facilities. Building another facility might make it even more crowded. There would be less space for residents to gather. This is correct. Since the elder care centre would be built in the void decks, some residents were concerned that they would be deprived of a gathering area. F. 3.2 Managing trade-offs: What are trade-offs? trade-off. This means that having more of one thing (comfortable ride for one trip) would result in having less of another thing (sleeping time for the rest of the week). 11 In this lesson, you learnt that trade-offs are involved when deciding between two or more things that cannot be obtained at the same time due to limited resources. This means that having more of one thing would result in having less of another. H. 3.3 Principles shaping governance: What are some principles that shape governance in Singapore? Why is it important that a government anticipates change and stays relevant? By being forward-looking and taking sound actions early, the government can minimise threats and maximise opportunities for the people of Singapore. Why is practising meritocracy important? When people are rewarded based on their abilities and effort, they are encouraged to work harder. People would also feel happy that there is fairness in the system. When people are rewarded based on their abilities and effort, talented people are given the opportunity to lead. This can help bring about progress. 12  Chapter 4: How Can We Work Together for the Good of Society? A. 4.1 Addressing the needs of society: How can citizens and the government work together to address the needs of society? What do you think citizens can do to address the needs of the society Identify the area of need Offer our knowledge, skills and experience to help meet the needs Individuals Groups Government Gillian Tee noticed that RSVP Singapore also runs The government develops senior citizens found it programmes to teach the resources to support difficult to find caregivers. elderly relevant and useful community groups that skills seek to address the needs Gillian Tee used her of the elderly. knowledge and skills to Beneficiaries include create an app connecting socially isolated seniors, Provides financial support the elderly with caregivers. elderly patients discharged for senior citizens with low from hospital care, and the incomes. mentally disadvantaged and at-risk children from Supports community low-income families. groups in setting up programmes to teach senior citizens useful and relevant skills. initiate their efforts or create new community Targeted structures, actively tap into the groups to further attend to policies, and national resources and the specific needs of programmes are programmes provided by society that still need to be established, creating the government and addressed. opportunities for the community groups. community to show care to those around them. 13 C. 4.2 Influencing decision-making in public affairs: How can citizens and the government work together to influence decision-making in public affairs? In Singapore, the government plays an important role in ○ seeking the views of citizens ○ provides citizens with fair and equal opportunities ○ influence public policy decision-making through engagement platforms Reaching Everyone for Active Citizenry @ Home (REACH). REACH is the national feedback and engagement unit under the Ministry of Communications and Information. ○ engage citizens' views on public policies ○ , and listen to their concerns and issues. ○ consolidates the feedback received through various channels and shares it with relevant government agencies. ○ reach out to as many people as possible by making it convenient for people to give feedback Why is it important for the government to seek the views of citizens on public policies? The government will better understand citizens' concerns and challenges from different perspectives. They can also tap into the knowledge, expertise and experiences of individuals 14  to improve policies and programmes. E 4.3 Strengthening citizens' sense of belonging: How can citizens and the government work together to strengthen citizens' sense of belonging? How can the government’s efforts to preserve the country’s heritage strengthen citizens’ sense of belonging? Preserving buildings, such as the pre-HDB flats that are unique, helps to remind citizens of Singapore’s past. This can strengthen citizens’ identity and belonging towards the country. By giving citizens a say and listening to them, the government is giving people a stake in the country. This helps citizens feel that Singapore is their home and thus strengthens their sense of belonging. 15 Chapter 5: What are the Factors that Shape the Identities of People and Contribute to a Diverse Society? A. 5. What is identity and how do different identities contribute to diversity in society? B. 5.1.1 Race and Ethnicity: What is the influence of race and ethnicity on a person's identity? Ethnicity refers to the culture of a group of people who share the same ancestry, customs and traditions. Race refers to the biological classification of people, which includes their physical characteristics. Race and ethnicity can shape a person's identity as they influence his or her beliefs, values, practices and way of life. 16 D. 5.2.1 Religion: What is the influence of religion on a person’s identity? In general, religion refers to an organised collection of attitudes, beliefs, values, practices and world views. It often involves the worship of a god or a group of gods. It usually has a narrative or an account of events to explain the meaning of life and the origins of life. Many religions promote values of compassion, love and respect. F. 5.3.1 Socio-Economic Status: What is the influence of socio-economic status on a person's identity? Socio-economic status may influence a person’s life experiences ○ choice of housing, ○ food, ○ entertainment, ○ activities ○ and friends household’s income is one indicator of a person's socio-economic status. This information helps the government identify groups of people who may require additional assistance to support upward social mobility. H. 5.4 Nationality: What is the influence of nationality on a person’s identity? Nationality refers to being a citizen of or belonging to a particular country. ○ People of the same nationality may feel more connected with each other as they identify with and share a common history and language. ○ They may also live together in a particular geographical area, and share common experiences, practices and traditions. Nationality may result in a person feeling a shared sense of national identity and belonging to his or her country. As immigrants and migrants of different nationalities are attracted to live and work in Singapore, they bring along their distinct identities and practices unique to their country of origin, contributing towards diversity in Singapore. 17  Chapter 6: What are the Experiences and Effects of Living in a Diverse Society? A Interactions in a diverse society and common space: What is common space? Common space physical location and/or a social space where different groups of people interact, cooperate, or collaborate on projects or activities. Such interactions allow people to do the following: ○ Forge ties and establish mutual understanding between people of different races, ethnicities, religions, and socio-economic statuses. ○ Create shared experiences and memories. Common spaces provide opportunities to build mutual trust and good relations, which helps to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts. B. Experiences and effects of living in a diverse society: What does it mean to possess an attitude of openness? what it means to possess an attitude of openness; and how an attitude of openness can bring about meaningful interactions in a diverse society. Being open to listen to, learn from and share with others enriches our interactions with them. This attitude of openness also helps develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of different cultures. C. Cultural Exchange and Appreciation: Why is cultural exchange and appreciation important in a diverse society? what is, and makes up culture; ○ Different ethnic groups have their own shared culture and way of life, commonly reflected in their food, art, music, rituals, and ways of greeting. ○ These are usually developed over long periods of time and are integral to the identity and cohesion of people within the ethnic group how the diversity of ethnic groups in Singapore strengthen their harmonious relationships through cultural exchange and appreciation of their ethnic cultures. 18  ○ The diversity of ethnic cultures in Singapore offers opportunities for people to interact, learn about and appreciate different cultures. ○ This understanding allows for cultural exchange and appreciation resulting from the sharing of ideas, customs, and traditions among people from different backgrounds. how cultural exchange and appreciation can result in a fusion of cultures, producing interesting outcomes. ○ Cultural exchange and appreciation can result in fusion of cultures. This fusion can have interesting and exciting outcomes. D. Cultural Exchange and Appreciation: How do cultural dilution and cultural appropriation affect the experiences of living in a diverse society? There are concerns that fusion could result in a dilution of culture and a loss of identity in communities. Cultural appropriation happens when an aspect of a culture is used without permission or in an insensitive or unfair manner. 6.2. Exchange of Knowledge and Skills: How does the exchange of knowledge and skills affect the experiences of living in a diverse society? A diverse population sees people of different qualifications and experiences interacting with each other, allowing for an exchange of knowledge and skills. This exchange results in the creation of new ideas, methods, and products. This results in scientific breakthroughs, innovations, and more investment commitments in Singapore 6.3 Stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination: What are stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination? Prejudice refers to attitudes and feelings towards other groups that are not based on reason or fact. Prejudice is dangerous and can lead to discrimination. ○ When someone acts on prejudiced beliefs/negative feelings and hurts/excludes a group ○ Discrimination/prejudice regarding race/ethnicity racism. An individual, a community, or an institution can display racism. 19  ○ Stereotypes are generalised beliefs about a particular group of people, often based on qualities such as their physical traits, gender, race and ethnicity, nationality, age, and socio-economic status. ○ Prejudice refers to attitudes and feelings towards other groups that are not based on reason or fact. It can come in the form of stereotyping, assumptions, generalisations, beliefs, or feelings about a group. ○ Discrimination happens when a person acts in a way that reflects his prejudice. He or she may treat others unfairly by hurting or excluding them. Chapter 7: How can we respond to diversity in society? A. Responses of individuals: How can individuals respond to socio-cultural diversity in a way that contributes to harmony? Responses towards issues arising from socio-cultural diversity make a difference. Our response to insensitive comments about a person's identity has implications. Social media can amplify these implications; reacting in anger with insensitive and hurtful words or actions can further fuel sentiments of unhappiness and criticism. When we respond constructively to help others understand the impact of their actions, we raise awareness and address areas of ignorance. We can respond in a way that deepens meaningful understanding and cultivates mutually respectful relationships with those around us. In that case, we will be able to harness our diversity and live harmoniously. B. Responses of community groups: How can community groups respond to socio-cultural diversity in a way that contributes to harmony? Citizens with common interests can organise themselves into formal and informal community groups to contribute towards specific needs or issues in society. The initiatives and proactive responses of community groups help shape the attitudes and actions of the general public. Their efforts help to maintain harmonious interactions in a diverse society as it develops ○ a deeper understanding between different socio-cultural groups; and 20  ○ a spirit of mutual accommodation and trust. C. Assimilationist policies in France: What is the assimilationist policy adopted by the government in France? Governments can respond to socio-cultural diversity by adopting the assimilationist policy; and France's assimilationist approach helps to achieve harmony in a socio-culturally diverse society by: ○ ensuring that the principle of laïcité is adhered to; and Laïcité refers to state secularism and secularism refers to the belief in setting a clear separation of religious affairs from governance 21  and not favouring one religion over another. ○ the implementation of assimilationist policies in the areas of education, employment and naturalisation. D Integration policies in Singapore: What is the integration policy adopted by the government in Singapore? Integration is another government response to managing socio-cultural diversity. In countries that adopt this approach, integration policies ensure minority groups and immigrants retain their unique identities while forging common ground with the host country's majority group. The Singapore identity is anchored in the shared values of upholding law and order, respecting racial and religious harmony, and a commitment to working together for a better future. Differences in practices, customs, and traditions of different groups are recognised and respected. Equality is promoted without granting special rights to any racial, ethnic, or religious groups. Common Experiences ☺ Government policies provide a common platform where opportunities are provided for immigrants and locals to interact with one another. ☺ Therefore, coordinated efforts are made across key institutions in Singapore and policies are implemented to create common experiences and promote social cohesion. ☺ Hence, policies like the EIP and NS provide these opportunities to encourage interaction and bond-building between immigrants and locals. Naturalisation Intiatives 22  Governments can respond to socio-cultural diversity by adopting the integration policy; and Singapore's integration policy helps to achieve harmony in a socio-culturally diverse society through a combination of government and community-based initiatives such as: ○ the existence of ground-up community support; ○ the provision of naturalisation initiatives; and ○ opportunities provided to forge common experiences between immigrants and locals. E Responses of individuals: How can individuals respond to issues faced by individuals and groups from different socio-economic backgrounds? An individual can respond to their socio-economic challenges by adopting an attitude of grit and perseverance; and Individuals can play their part and respond by contributing their time, effort and money to meet areas of need in society. H Responses of community groups: How can communities respond to issues of socio-economic diversity? I saw some videos like New Charis Mission where ex-offenders help refurbish elderly’s homes while also spending time with them and breaking them out. I Government-financed approach in Sweden: How does the Swedish government respond to a socio-economically diverse society through its government-financed approach? Where do the taxes go to? Free education (e.g., several degrees at no cost), long parental leave (e.g., 1.5 years), highly affordable full-time childcare, medical insurance (which means they do not have to worry about the financial cost of falling ill), and safety nets in the case of emergencies. J Challenges faced by Sweden: What are the challenges faced by Sweden's government-financed approach? High Taxation Rate ○ Social benefits: lengthy parental leave, unemployment allowances, free healthcare, education Aging Population 23  High immigrant unemployment work ○ Challenges in integrating immigrants Increased government spending, especially in the areas of health and long-term care- as the population ages. As more people retire, less people will be paying income tax and thus, there will be a smaller working population to bear the cost of providing benefits in the 4 areas of healthcare, education, housing and skills training.There may be also be a need to: ○ increase employment rates; and/or ○ lengthen the employment years of those still working; and/or ○ raise taxes on the working population. K Shared-responsibility approach in Singapore: How does the Singapore government respond to a socio-economically diverse society through its shared responsibility approach? DPM has promised to continue to provide affordable and accessible public housing for Singaporeans. DPM has promised to design a support scheme that provides assurance and a targeted re-employment scheme for Singaporeans who have lost their jobs. Subsidies in Singapore Subsidies for essential services ○ Government Subsidies (up to 80% in public hospitals) ○ Medisave (pay medical fees of immediate families ○ Medishield (pay for large hospital fees/outpatient treatment) ○ Medifunds help those who are unable to pay subsidised funds Subsidies for preschool ○ Government subsidies for preschool fees increased ○ Lower-income families making less than 3000 per month pay $3 per month at preschool centres under the Anchor operations scheme funded by the government Social and community assistance for lower-income families ○ Financial support to help them during difficult times to regain stability Vouchers for low to middle-income families ○ U-save rebates help with utility bills ○ Cash payouts in August Opportunities for upskilling and training ○ Have cash awards for low-wadge Singaporeans 24