Curriculum
Taking an Applied Learning approach to instruction, SST provides students with a strong foundation in the various disciplines – and more. Here is a snapshot of how we approach learning at SST:
General Course of Study
Languages
SST goes beyond honing writing, reading and oral communication skills in language classes. Through effective language learning, we aim to groom eloquent and effective communicators who are able to hold an independent position on issues, and clearly articulate their views in a cogent and compelling manner. Students will engage in a host of learning activities to develop critical thinking skills to become discerning consumers of information and users of knowledge. New initiatives at the lower secondary include select group participation in forum discussions with non-governmental organisations, enrichment courses, learning journeys and service learning projects like engaging the elderly at day care centres and a food donation drive.
Science
Grounded in inquiry, experimentation and discovery, the science curriculum presents students with opportunities to encounter science in all its forms. This will help them develop keen observation and analytical skills, enable them to satisfy their curiosity about the natural world, and cultivate habits of mind to be out-of-the-box innovators. Some lower secondary student-initiated experimental studies include the investigation of the effect of frequency on the resonance effect of sound in an open pipe and the development of a structure to protect homes from rising sea levels. The Investigative Skills in Science (ISS) Module at lower secondary provides students with the opportunity to be inquirers by conducting in-depth studies in an area of their interest. Students who demonstrate strengths and aptitudes are then given the support to develop their projects for showcase and competition. Some competitions they have participated in with their research projects include the EZ A*STAR Science Fair and Singapore Youth Science Fair.
- Environment Education
The school creates an awareness of energy conservation as our way of life through education for both students and staff.
Our approach is authentic and implemented via various platforms in a subtle manner through staff engagement sessions, assembly programmes, learning journeys, and with great impact through our unique applied learning curriculum.
SST has received accreditation for its work in fostering thought leadership and advocacy in the areas of environment conservation. This includes the Lotus Award (2015) and the Gold Award in the Singapore Environment Council (SEC)-StarHub School Green Awards.In particular, the school was presented the Best Energy Efficiency Practices for Public Sector (EENP) Agencies (School) Award. This award, conferred by National Environment Agency, Energy Market Authority, and Economic Development Board, recognises schools that have demonstrated a high level of commitment towards energy conservation.
Mathematics
Mathematics is brought to life by exposing the students to a variety of learning experiences. By teaching from first principles, students develop a deeper understanding of how theorems, laws and formulae are derived. Through performance tasks, students are given opportunities to apply Mathematics in their everyday lives. For a “Viva Voice” performance task, students will be asked to demonstrate their understanding of concepts and calculations via a recorded presentation. They would then share their videos with the rest of the class on an online platform. For a “Mathematical Modelling” performance task, students had to study a population pattern and write a report based on their findings. In the process, students integrate concepts from other disciplines, make assumptions within the context and propose solutions based on their mathematical calculations.
Integrated Humanities
The humanities curriculum is designed to promote deeper understanding of people, places and times by evaluating various political, economic and social factors. Students will encounter real-life examples that will contribute to a holistic perspective of the world, through the study of history, geography, economics and global interdependence. They will also have opportunities to embark on inquiry-based fieldwork, to challenge them to investigate, compile and publish authentic knowledge of their local communities. For instance, students develop their own iBooks to co-create their own learning, instead of using textbooks.
Sports and Wellness
The SST S&W curriculum is based on the philosophy of education through the physical, a multi-dimensional approach to develop students holistically through sports and games excellence. The curriculum engages students actively with relevant activities that help them learn experientially. Lessons are focused on acquiring games skills for sports recreation, uncovering games concepts for understanding, and promoting sportsmanship and sporting behaviour through authentic sports participation and competition. There is also a focus on adventure education that compels students to develop and sharpen their coping and management strategies in an ambiguous environment. Students experience physical, mental and social emotional challenges that effectively develops their strength of character.
