Singapore Secondary 2 Science Syllabus

This syllabus outlines the curriculum for Secondary 2 Science, based on the Singapore Ministry of Education (MOE) syllabus document ( The curriculum is built around five key themes:

A. The Scientific Endeavour

This theme introduces students to the nature of science, scientific inquiry, and the impact of scientific advancements. It emphasizes:

• Science as a study of natural phenomena, observable in everyday life.
• Scientific knowledge as a product of observation, experimentation, analysis, and human creativity.
• The dynamic nature of scientific knowledge, subject to change with new evidence.
• The application of scientific knowledge and its potential for both beneficial and harmful consequences.
• The importance of ethical considerations in scientific pursuits.

B. Diversity

This theme explores the diversity of matter and its classification. Key topics include:

• Exploring Diversity of Matter by its Physical Properties: Students learn about various physical properties of materials (e.g., electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, melting/boiling point, density) and their implications for material selection and sustainable use.
• Exploring Diversity of Matter by its Chemical Composition: Students learn about elements, compounds, and mixtures, and how their chemical composition influences their properties and applications. They also explore the concepts of solute, solvent, and solution.
• Exploring Diversity of Matter using Separation Techniques: Students learn about various separation techniques (e.g., magnetic attraction, filtration, evaporation, distillation, paper chromatography) and their applications in everyday life and industries.

C. Models

This theme introduces the concept of scientific models as representations of phenomena. Key topics include:

• Ray Model of Light: Students learn about the ray model of light and its use in understanding reflection, refraction, and dispersion.
• Model of Cells - the Basic Unit of Life: Students learn about the structure and function of typical plant and animal cells, and how these models represent the basic building blocks of multicellular organisms.
• Model of Matter - The Particulate Nature of Matter: Students use the particulate nature of matter as a model to explain the properties of solids, liquids, and gases, and phenomena like diffusion.
• Model of Matter - Atoms and Molecules: Students learn about atomic structure, the concept of molecules, and how these models help us understand the nature of matter.

D. Interactions

This theme explores the interactions between matter and the transfer of energy. Key topics include:

• Application of Forces and Transfer of Energy: Students learn about contact and non-contact forces, the transfer of energy, and the effects of forces on motion, turning effects, size, shape, and pressure. They also explore different energy sources and their environmental impact.
• Transfer of Heat Energy and its Effects: Students learn about heat transfer through conduction, convection, and radiation, and the effects of heat on expansion and contraction. They also explore the applications of heat transfer in everyday life.
• Chemical Changes: Students investigate different types of chemical reactions (e.g., reactions between acids and alkalis, metals, and carbonates) and learn about the conservation of mass during chemical changes. They also explore the beneficial and harmful effects of chemical reactions.
• Interactions within Ecosystems: Students explore the interactions between organisms and their environment, including biotic and abiotic factors. They also learn about the importance of conservation and the impact of human activities on ecosystems.

E. Systems

This theme explores the concept of systems and how different parts interact to perform a function. Key topics include:

• Electrical Systems: Students learn about current, potential difference, resistance, and the effects of electric current. They also explore electrical safety and energy consumption.
• Human Digestive System: Students learn about the structure and function of the human digestive system and how different parts work together to digest food. They also explore the impact of lifestyle choices on digestive health.
• Transport Systems in Living Things: Students learn about the transport systems in humans (blood vessels) and plants (xylem and phloem), and how these systems facilitate the transport of substances.
• Human Sexual Reproductive System: Students learn about the structure and function of the human reproductive system, puberty, the menstrual cycle, birth control methods, and sexually transmitted infections.

This syllabus aims to develop students' scientific literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, preparing them for future learning and responsible citizenship.