People Who Help Us · Semester 1

Volunteerism and Philanthropy in Singapore

Investigating the landscape of volunteerism and philanthropy in Singapore, its motivations, impact on society, and government support for the non-profit sector.

About This Topic

Volunteers in the Community introduces the concept of giving one's time and skills for free to help others. Students learn that while some people are paid for their work (like doctors), others choose to help because they care about a cause, such as animal welfare, helping the elderly, or protecting the environment.

This topic is an important part of the MOE Social Studies curriculum, as it introduces the idea of active citizenship and the 'Kampong Spirit.' It encourages students to think about how they can contribute to society even as children. Students grasp this concept faster through structured discussion about different volunteer roles and by imagining ways they can volunteer in their own small ways.

Active Learning Ideas

Think-Pair-Share: Why Volunteer?

Students think of one thing they are good at (e.g., drawing, reading, or cleaning). They share with a partner how they could use that skill to help someone else for free.

⏱ 15 min·Pairs

Generate mission

Inquiry Circle: Volunteer Roles

In small groups, students look at photos of volunteers (e.g., at a food bank, an animal shelter, or a beach cleanup). They discuss what the volunteer is doing and why it is helpful for the community.

⏱ 25 min·Small Groups

Generate mission

Simulation Game: The Kindness Project

The class 'plans' a simple volunteer project, like making bookmarks for the school library. They discuss the steps needed and how it feels to do something helpful without expecting a reward.

⏱ 30 min·Whole Class

Generate mission

Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

Students might think that volunteering is only for adults.

What to Teach Instead

Teachers can share examples of 'Kid Volunteers' who help in school or participate in family beach cleanups. This helps students see that they are never too young to make a difference.

Common Misconception

Students may believe that people only volunteer because they have 'nothing else to do.'

What to Teach Instead

Through stories of busy people who still find time to help, teachers can show that volunteering is a choice made out of kindness and passion. This surfaces the idea of personal values and commitment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a job and volunteering?

A job is work that you do to earn money to pay for things you need. Volunteering is work that you choose to do for free because you want to help other people, animals, or the environment. Both are very important for the community.

How can a Primary 2 student volunteer?

Students can volunteer in small ways, such as being a 'buddy' to a new classmate, helping the teacher tidy the classroom, or participating in a family-led activity like donating old toys to a charity or picking up litter at the beach.

How can active learning help students understand volunteering?

Active learning, such as a 'Kindness Project' simulation, allows students to experience the 'helper's high', the good feeling that comes from assisting others. By actually planning and executing a small act of service, the concept of volunteering moves from a definition in a book to a personal experience, making it much more likely that they will want to volunteer in the future.

What are some famous volunteer organizations in Singapore?

Some well-known ones include the Red Cross, the SPCA (for animals), Food from the Heart (for food donation), and various environmental groups that organize beach cleanups. Many people also volunteer through their local Community Centres.

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