Humanities Flashcards

In Singapore O-Level Social Studies, what is the concept of 'governance'?

Answer: The process by which a country is managed, including how decisions are made, how authority is exercised, and how citizens participate

Governance encompasses the entire system of managing a country — decision-making processes, exercise of authority, accountability mechanisms, and citizen participation in public affairs.

What is Source-Based Questions (SBQ) technique in O-Level Social Studies?

Answer: Analysing primary and secondary sources for reliability, usefulness, purpose, and cross-referencing with contextual knowledge

SBQ requires students to analyse sources critically: identify purpose and perspective, assess reliability and utility, compare sources for agreement/disagreement, and use contextual knowledge to evaluate claims.

What was Singapore's key strategy for economic development after independence in 1965?

Answer: Attracted foreign direct investment (FDI), developed export-oriented manufacturing, invested in education, and built world-class infrastructure

Singapore attracted MNCs through political stability, rule of law, efficient infrastructure, and skilled workforce. The strategy shifted from labour-intensive manufacturing to high-tech industries and services.

What is the significance of the 1964 racial riots in Singapore's history?

Answer: They demonstrated the dangers of racial tension, leading to policies promoting racial harmony, integration, and the Sedition Act to prevent racial incitement

The 1964 racial riots between Chinese and Malays resulted in deaths and injuries, shaping Singapore's commitment to racial harmony through policies like the Ethnic Integration Policy and Racial Harmony Day.

What is the Structured Essay Question (SEQ) format in O-Level Social Studies?

Answer: A multi-part question requiring students to explain, give examples, and evaluate using both source material and own knowledge

SEQs typically have parts (a) and (b): part (a) asks students to explain with examples, and part (b) requires evaluation or assessment of a statement using both given sources and personal knowledge.

Why did Singapore separate from Malaysia in 1965?

Answer: Disagreements over economic policies, racial tensions, and political conflicts between PAP and the central government led to Singapore's expulsion

Key factors included disagreements over a common market, racial politics (PAP's 'Malaysian Malaysia' concept vs. Malay special rights), and political rivalry between Lee Kuan Yew and Tunku Abdul Rahman.