Singapore · MOE Syllabus Outcomes
Primary 5 Social Studies
Primary 5 Social Studies: from the trauma of the Japanese Occupation to the triumph of nation-building. Students explore the challenges of merger, the resilience of the pioneer generation, and the strategies that shaped modern Singapore.
The Japanese Occupation (1942–1945)
An in-depth look at the fall of "Fortress Singapore" and the lived experiences of people during the darkest years of Singapore's history.
Pupils learn how the Japanese invaded Malaya and captured Singapore in February 1942, despite British defences.
Pupils explore what daily life was like during the Occupation, including food shortages, fear, banana money, and the Sook Ching massacre.
Pupils learn about acts of courage and resilience during the Occupation, from people who helped others to the broader spirit of survival.
Exploring the brave individuals and groups like Force 136 and the MPAJA who fought against the invaders.
Pupils learn about Japan's surrender in 1945 and the lasting impact of the Occupation on Singapore's people.
Reflecting on why Singapore must be able to defend itself and the origins of Total Defence.
The Road to Self-Government
The post-war struggle for political rights and the birth of Singapore's own leadership.
Pupils learn about post-war Singapore: the return of the British, poverty, and the growing desire for change.
Understanding the issues of housing shortages, poor sanitation, and frequent strikes during this period.
Pupils learn about the formation of political parties and how Singaporeans began to organise for self-government.
Pupils explore Singapore's first elections and the excitement of people voting for their own leaders.
Learning about Singapore's first Chief Minister and the quest for Merdeka (independence).
Pupils learn about Singapore gaining self-government and the role of the People's Action Party (PAP).
The creation of the National Anthem, Flag, and Crest in 1959 to represent the new state.
The Merger with Malaysia
The political journey to unite with Malaya, Sabah, and Sarawak, and the reasons behind this historic choice.
Tunku Abdul Rahman's proposal and the initial reactions from Singapore's leadership.
Pupils learn about the reasons Singapore wanted to join Malaysia, including economic survival and security.
The intense political campaigning and the 1962 National Referendum.
Celebrating the birth of the new federation on 16 September 1963.
Understanding Indonesia's opposition to Malaysia and the impact of the MacDonald House bombing.
Separation and Independence
The breakdown of the merger and the sudden birth of the Republic of Singapore.
Pupils explore what happened after Singapore joined Malaysia, including tensions and disagreements.
A sensitive look at the civil unrest that broke out and the lessons learned about racial harmony.
The secret negotiations that led to the separation of Singapore from Malaysia.
Pupils learn about the emotional day when Singapore became an independent nation.
Pupils reflect on the enormous challenges facing the tiny new nation.
How Singapore joined the United Nations and became a member of the Commonwealth.
Survival: Building an Economy
How Singapore transformed from a port with high unemployment to a global industrial hub.
Understanding the dire economic situation in 1965 and the withdrawal of the British military.
The strategy of inviting multinational corporations (MNCs) to set up factories in Singapore.
The role of the EDB and Dr. Goh Keng Swee in planning Singapore's industrialisation.
The transformation of Jurong into Singapore's first industrial estate.
How the education system was changed to train workers for factories and technical jobs.
The evolution of the port from a colonial entrepot to a modern container terminal.
The growth of the service sector, including the birth of SIA and the development of tourism.
A Home for Everyone
The social transformation of Singapore through housing, health, and clean environments.
Pupils learn about the HDB housing programme and how it cleared slums.
The tragic event that accelerated the government's plan to provide safe public housing.
The social impact of moving from village life to modern apartments.
The ten-year project to transform a polluted river into a clean waterway.
Lee Kuan Yew's vision of a green Singapore and the first Tree Planting Day.
The improvement of hospitals, clinics, and waste management systems.
How the CPF system was created to help Singaporeans save for housing and retirement.
Security and Defence
Understanding how a small nation ensures its safety through diplomacy and military strength.
Pupils learn about the creation of the SAF and the introduction of National Service.
The development of the Army, Navy, and Air Force into a modern fighting force.
The five (now six) pillars of Total Defence: Military, Civil, Economic, Social, Psychological, and Digital.
The roles of the Police Force, SCDF, and other agencies in keeping Singapore safe.
How Singapore builds friendships with other countries to ensure peace and stability.
Addressing modern threats like fake news, cyberattacks, and online safety.
One People, One Nation
The values and identity that unite Singaporeans as a diverse but cohesive society.
Our policy of racial and religious harmony and the importance of mutual respect.
The meaning behind the words written by S. Rajaratnam in 1966.
The policy of learning English and a Mother Tongue to connect with the world and our heritage.
The principle that everyone has an equal chance to succeed through hard work and talent.
Honouring the men and women who worked hard to build the Singapore we enjoy today.
The evolution of NDP as a celebration of our sovereignty and national pride.
The five Shared Values adopted by Parliament to guide Singaporeans.
How young Singaporeans can contribute to the community and shape the future.
Our contributions to the global community, from humanitarian aid to international leadership.