The Elected Presidency: Custodial Powers
Students examine the shift from a ceremonial to an elected president with custodial powers over reserves.
Key Questions
- Explain why the office of the President was changed in 1991.
- Differentiate the 'two keys' regarding the national reserves.
- Analyze how the Reserved Election (2017) impacted public perception.
MOE Syllabus Outcomes
About This Topic
The office of the President in Singapore underwent a major change in 1991, moving from a ceremonial role appointed by Parliament to an elected role with specific custodial powers. The 'Elected Presidency' was designed to act as a 'second key' to protect the nation's past reserves and the integrity of the public service. This topic covers the rationale for this change, the President's powers, and the introduction of the Reserved Election to ensure multi-racial representation.
This topic is a study in 'institutional design.' It connects to the MOE syllabus by examining how Singapore protects its long-term assets. Students benefit from active learning by simulating a 'request for funds' where the President must decide whether to allow the government to draw from the reserves.
Active Learning Ideas
Simulation Game: The Two-Key System
One student plays the Finance Minister requesting to use reserves for a crisis (e.g., a pandemic), and another plays the President. The President must consult the Council of Presidential Advisers and decide if the request meets the 'national interest' criteria.
Inquiry Circle: The Reserved Election
Groups research the 2017 Reserved Election. They must explain why the government felt it was necessary to ensure a President from a minority race and discuss the public's reaction to this policy change.
Think-Pair-Share: Ceremonial vs Custodial
Students discuss: 'Which role of the President is more important: being a symbol of unity or being a guardian of the reserves?' They pair up to list the pros and cons of each and share with the class.
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Common MisconceptionThe President can make their own laws and policies.
What to Teach Instead
The President's powers are 'custodial' and 'reactive'; they can veto certain government actions but cannot propose their own laws. A 'can vs cannot' sorting activity can help students understand the specific limits of the President's power.
Common MisconceptionThe President is just a 'rubber stamp' for the government.
What to Teach Instead
The President has a real veto over the reserves and key appointments, and they have used their power to ask tough questions (e.g., during the 2008 financial crisis). Using historical examples of the President 'turning the key' can correct this view.
Suggested Methodologies
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 'two keys' regarding the national reserves?
Why was the office of the President changed in 1991?
How can active learning help students understand the Elected Presidency?
What is a Reserved Election?
Planning templates for History
5E Model
The 5E Model structures lessons through five phases (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate), guiding students from curiosity to deep understanding through inquiry-based learning.
unit plannerThematic Unit
Organize a multi-week unit around a central theme or essential question that cuts across topics, texts, and disciplines, helping students see connections and build deeper understanding.
rubricSingle-Point Rubric
Build a single-point rubric that defines only the "meets standard" level, leaving space for teachers to document what exceeded and what fell short. Simple to create, easy for students to understand.
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