Singapore Primary School Art Syllabus

This syllabus outlines the curriculum for Art in Singapore Primary Schools, focusing on developing students as active artists and informed audiences. The syllabus is built around three Learning Domains: See (Observe-Inquire), Express (Create-Innovate), and Appreciate (Connect-Respond). These domains are explored through four key components: Context, Artistic Processes, Visual Qualities, and Media.

Aims of Art Education

The aims of art education are to enable every child to:

• Enjoy art
• Communicate visually
• Make meaning through connecting with society and culture

Learning Domains and Key Competencies

The syllabus is structured around three learning domains, each with corresponding key competencies:

• See (Observe-Inquire): Students develop visual inquiry skills to observe their surroundings closely, analyze, and reflect on their visual experiences. They learn to record and interpret their observations, developing visual literacy.
• Express (Create-Innovate): Students generate ideas from their observations and explore ways to create and communicate using various materials, tools, art forms, and media. They experiment and innovate with visual elements and artistic processes to achieve their artistic intentions.
• Appreciate (Connect-Respond): Students acquire skills and vocabulary to discuss and interpret artworks. They deepen their understanding of Singapore and the world by connecting with artworks and artists from different cultures and contexts.

Content

The syllabus content is organized into four key components:

1. Context: Students learn from a range of artworks by Singaporean and international artists, organized under three focus areas: Self and Immediate Environment; Singapore Past, Present and Future; and The World and Region We Live in. 2. Artistic Processes: Students engage in six key artistic processes: Inspiration, Imagination, Experimentation, Materiality, Emotion, and Presentation. These processes are interwoven and non-linear, emphasizing both the creative journey and the final artwork. 3. Visual Qualities: Students learn the language of art through exploring elements of art (e.g., line, shape, color, texture) and principles of design (e.g., balance, contrast, rhythm). They learn to analyze how these elements and principles are used in different art forms and apply them in their own work. 4. Media: Students are exposed to a range of art tools and materials associated with various art forms, including drawing, painting, photography/film/technology, mixed media, printmaking, sculpture, and textiles.

Core Learning Experiences

The syllabus includes three core learning experiences:

• Drawing (Primary 1-6): Drawing is considered the foundation of art and is taught across all primary levels. The focus is on using drawing as a tool for expression and communication, rather than technical perfection. A blended learning approach is used, with online resources complementing classroom activities.
• Museum-Based Learning (Primary 4): This experience provides an authentic context for learning about local art and its connection to Singapore's history and heritage. It involves pre-, during-, and post-visit activities to a local art museum.
• Exhibition in Curriculum (Primary 1-6): Students participate in displaying their own and their peers' artworks in the classroom, school, and community. This experience helps them understand how display choices affect meaning and develops their presentation skills.

Dynamic Learning Experiences

Schools have the flexibility to design dynamic learning experiences that complement the core experiences and enrich students' learning.

Assessment

Assessment in Art is holistic and focuses on supporting student learning and development. Portfolio assessment is the main assessment mode, allowing students to showcase their progress, reflect on their learning, and demonstrate their understanding of art concepts and skills.

Syllabus Refresh

The Primary Art syllabus has been refreshed for implementation from 2024. The refresh includes a wider range of media, topics, and themes, with a focus on deeper engagement and interdisciplinary learning. It also incorporates digital art creation and digital photography, reflecting current trends in art and education. The works of several local artists have been added to the syllabus.