Singapore Secondary 2 Geography Syllabus

This syllabus focuses on sustainable resource use and management, covering natural resources and urban development. It aims to develop students' geographical thinking through inquiry-based learning.

Introduction to Geography

Geography studies the relationship between people and their environment, encompassing both physical and human aspects. Key concepts include space, place, environment, and scale, which are used to analyze geographical phenomena. Geographical inquiry involves posing questions and conducting investigations to understand the world.

Theme: Sustainable Resource Use and Management

This theme explores how natural resources can be managed sustainably and how cities can be built with sustainability in mind.

Thematic Question 1: How Can We Sustainably Manage Natural Resources?

This question explores the management of essential resources like water, tropical rainforests, and mangroves. It considers the balance between resource extraction and environmental conservation.

Topic 1.1: Water

This topic examines the importance of water, its distribution, the hydrological cycle, and the impact of human activities on water quality. It also explores strategies for sustainable water management.

Topic 1.2: Tropical Rainforests and Mangroves

This topic covers the characteristics, distribution, and adaptations of tropical rainforests and mangroves. It also explores the relationship between these ecosystems and the environment, as well as the impact of human activities and strategies for sustainable management.

Thematic Question 2: How Can We Sustainably Build Cities?

This question focuses on the challenges and opportunities of urban development, specifically in housing and transportation.

Topic 2.1: Housing

This topic examines different types of housing, their characteristics, and their location within cities. It also explores the impact of housing on the environment and people, as well as strategies for sustainable housing management.

Topic 2.2: Transport Systems

This topic covers the characteristics and location of transport systems in cities. It explores the impact of transport systems on the environment and people, and strategies for sustainable transport management.

Geographical Investigation

Geographical Investigation (GI) is an integral part of the syllabus, providing students with opportunities to conduct independent research, apply geographical skills, and develop solutions for real-world issues. Each topic includes a corresponding GI.

Geographical Data Skills and Techniques

This section outlines the skills and techniques for working with geographical data, including graphs, maps, images, field sketches, tables, texts, and schematic diagrams. Students learn to read, construct, analyze, and interpret these data types.

Pedagogy

The syllabus emphasizes learning through geographical inquiry, a process that involves sparking curiosity, gathering data, exercising reasoning, and reflective thinking. The use of geospatial technology is also encouraged to enhance learning.

Assessment

Assessment is integral to the learning process and aims to provide students with feedback to improve their understanding. Assessment objectives include knowledge, critical understanding, constructing explanations, and interpreting and evaluating geographical data. Recommended assessment modes include class tests, examinations, responses to geographical issues, and geographical investigations.