Singapore Secondary 2 School Syllabus - Humanities > Literature in English (G1)

The Secondary 2 Literature in English (G1) syllabus is part of the Humanities Exposure Modules (HEM). The HEMs aim to provide a broad humanities experience, focusing on developing knowledge, skills, values, and dispositions related to understanding people's relationships with themselves, society, and the environment. Literature in English contributes to this goal by focusing on reading and responding to literary texts, connecting texts to students' lives and the world around them.

Unit 1: Multiple Perspectives in Texts

This unit explores the value of understanding different perspectives. Students learn to consider how and why people might view the same event differently and the importance of considering multiple viewpoints. Through picture books and poems, students examine the reasons behind differing views and how writers convey these perspectives. The unit aims to develop students' openness to other viewpoints and the understanding that situations can be interpreted in multiple ways.

Gateway Text: Voices in the Park* by Anthony Browne

Main Literary Text: "Every Day the Planet Burns a Little More"* by Brian Bilston

Unit 2: Perspectives on Admirable Characters

Building on the concept of perspectives, this unit focuses on admirable character qualities. Students explore what makes a character admirable, examining how speech, actions, and others' perspectives shape reader impressions. Using their prior knowledge of heroes and exploring a graphic novel, students delve into the qualities that define heroism. They also reflect on individuals they admire in their own lives.

• Gateway Text/Material: Images of heroes in fiction and popular culture

Main Literary Text: Lieutenant Adnan and the Last Regiment* by Danny Jalil and Zaki Ragman