Singapore Secondary 4 Art Syllabus (G2, G3)

This syllabus outlines the curriculum framework for Secondary 4 Art at the G2 (General 2, equivalent to Normal (Academic)) and G3 (General 3, equivalent to Express) levels. It emphasizes developing students as active artists and informed audiences, capable of expressing themselves visually and appreciating the role of art in society and culture. The syllabus is implemented starting with the 2025 Secondary Three cohort.

Core Learning Experiences

• Building Portfolios: Students document their learning journey, curate selected works, reflect on their progress, and present their portfolios in various formats. This process develops presentation skills and provides a visual representation of their artistic growth.
• Art Journaling: Students maintain a journal (digital or analogue) to explore ideas, experiment with materials, and reflect on their artistic process. This encourages active engagement with concepts and provides a space for personal expression.
• Art Conversations: Students engage in discussions about artworks, fostering critical thinking, contextual learning, and appreciation for diverse perspectives. This develops thoughtful looking, active listening, and respectful communication skills.

Learning Content

• Art Forms & Media: Students explore various art forms, including drawing, digital imaging, and elective options from Fine Art (e.g., painting, printmaking, sculpture) and Design/Time-based categories (e.g., illustration, graphic design, video, animation). G2 students explore two additional art forms, while G3 students explore three.
• Visual Qualities, Visual Strategies & Design Concepts: Building on prior knowledge of Elements of Art and Principles of Design, students learn contemporary visual strategies and design concepts (e.g., appropriation, juxtaposition, typography) to enhance their art making and analysis.
• Context: Students learn to analyze artworks by considering the topic, artist's intent, visual qualities, and audience interpretation. They explore how art relates to identity, history, culture, and the environment.
• Artistic Processes: Students develop their artistic process through observation, research, experimentation, and reflection. They learn to make informed artistic decisions and work towards creative resolutions.

Big Ideas

The curriculum is guided by three Big Ideas:

• Art helps us to see in new ways: Students develop new perspectives and appreciate diverse viewpoints through art making and analysis.
• Art tells stories about our world: Students explore how artists use personal experiences and social/cultural contexts to communicate ideas through their work.
• Art influences how we live: Students examine the impact of art on everyday life and explore how art can inspire positive change.

Assessment (G2/N(A)-Level and G3/O-Level)

Assessment is an integral part of the learning process and includes both formative and summative evaluations.

GCE N(A)-Level Art (Syllabus 6125)

• Paper 1: Coursework (60%): Students create a finished artwork based on one of six given themes, accompanied by preparatory studies showcasing their process and research of relevant artists/artworks.
• Paper 2: Drawing and Painting (40%): A 3-hour exam where students respond to one of six given themes, submitting a final artwork and preparatory studies.

GCE O-Level Art (Syllabus 6123)

• Paper 1: Coursework: Similar structure to the N(A)-Level Coursework.
• Paper 2: Drawing and Painting or Paper 3: Three-Dimensional Studies/Printmaking/Ceramics: Students choose either drawing and painting or one of the other specified art forms for their practical exam.

This syllabus aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and appreciation for art, enabling them to become confident artists and informed members of society.