Using Blog to supplement students learning for Social Studies Topics

Classroom Situation/Context
Secondary Three students find difficulty relating to the Social Studies concept of Governance.

Problems
They are unable to grasp the abstract concept of governance and its relevance to their everyday lives. They are therefore unmotivated and uninterested in their Social Studies lessons.

Solutions
To stimulate students’ interest, images, cartoons and videos are posted on the teaching blog. If internet connection is available in all classrooms, this blog is to be used in tandem during lesson. If not, teacher to direct students to view the blog on their own.

Links to other relevant sites will be created to provide students with additional information outside the textbook.

Introduction to governance in Singapore

Singapore is a fine city

This is all thanks to our government!
A government makes important decisions to meet the needs of the nation and its people.

Functions of a government

There are 4 functions of a government:

1) Ensures stability in the government

2) Builds a nation

3) Meets people’s needs

4) Maintains sovereignty

Principles of Good Governance

1) Leadership is key

•Honest and capable leaders
•Incorruptible
•Must do what is right and not what is popular with the people

2) Anticipate change and stay relevant

Integrated resorts NEWater

3) Reward for work & Work for reward

E.g. Progress package
•A way of the government to share surplus earnings

•Sharing the fruits of (economic) success

•Redistributing wealth whenever Singapore prospers

4) A stake for everyone, opportunities for all
•Having a say in decision-making develops in people a greater sense of belonging to the

country

For more information on principles of good governance, please click here.

For an interesting video on the Media Development Authority vision, please click here.