After your final exam in Y4 IP, you will be streamed into different classes for Y5 and Y6 based on your competencies and Y4 subject combination. As a parent or student, you might ask, what options are made available to me? The following few paragraphs will illustrate to you the paths you can take from Y5 onwards.
Y5 follows the Junior College system, which grades subjects based on H1 and H2. In Y5, you are required to take the following, H1 General Paper, H1 project work, H1 Higher Mother Tongue (most students are exempted as long as they have passed higher mother tongue in O level), and last but not least, to decide on the 3H2,1H1 or the 4H2 combination.
What is the significance of 3H2, 1H1 versus 4H2? A subject taken at the H2 level is deeper as compared to taking it at the H1 level, and it also bears a more significant weight when it comes to calculation of rank points. IP students who wish to take the 4H2 combination would also typically have to maintain a 3.0GPA in most schools for Y4. Otherwise, you will have to take the 3H2, 1H1 combination.
What is the purpose of taking 4H2 then if it gives more workload? Typically, students taking the 4H2 combination would have a wider variety of H2 subjects to choose from, which will give them more choices in University. Some courses, such as Chemical Engineering, require the student to take H2 chemistry at Alevel as a pre-requisite. If a student has not taken chemistry as he has taken H2 physics, H2 Math and H2 Econs, they will not be allowed to make the choice of taking such a course at University and would have to settle for other courses such as mechanical engineering, as compared to a student who has taken the 4H2 combination such as H2 Physics, H2 Math, H2 Chem and H2 Econs, who can take almost all engineering courses. 4H2 combination also typically opens more doors to scholarships, and certain courses such as medicine would also require students to take 4H2.
So is taking 3H2,H1 bad? Not necessarily. By taking that combination, an IP student would have more time to focus on all of their subjects, and eventually even perform better than their peers at Alevels. Students who are very sure of their path in University and want to forgo the stress of handling 4H2s can opt for the 3H2, H1 plan as well. This leaves more time to attend to extra-curricular activities and also other actvities such as learning programming or other important skills that are valued in the workforce. The student can still stream into popular courses such as computer science, engineering, and sciences with only 3H2s.
If you have failed the promotional exams and feel very lost, please schedule a consultation with me ASAP.
Mr YS Pang, IP tutor at SL
For lessons, contact 9385 534.
Location: Blk 644, Bukit Batok Central, #01-68. S(650644).
PM us on FB if you wish to have a free consultation.
https://www.facebook.com/SingaporeLearner/
Importance of Lower Secondary Math and Science
A strong competency in lower sec math and science is often underrated by students and parents. The idea that after streaming at sec2, you will be able to drop one science subject, or simply just not being interested in A-math, is a dangerous idea to toy with.
Lower sec science explores all 3 major aspects of science, which are chemistry, biology and physics. By underperforming in lower sec science, students would have a tougher time choosing whichever science specialization they want to go to after streaming. Underperforming in lower sec science actually sacrifices the potential of the student, and results in lost opportunities. You must bear in mind that choosing a pure science subject in sec 3 onwards affords you certain opportunities in post-secondary education, and eventually in the workforce. It would be a shame to underperform in lower sec science, take combined science and then to eventually realize that you were meant to become an engineer or a science researcher. A strong foundation in lower sec science also prepares you for the intensity of pure sciences at sec3, as former concepts will not be covered again. You will not want to be playing catch up for your mistakes in lower sec come the O-level period.
Lower sec math teaches important concepts such as basic equations, basic indices, negative numbers and proportionality. As you can see, these topics are not covered in primary six. This means even if a student has an A* in PSLE math, there is a limitation on the amount of competitive advantage he has over his peers. Yes, the student might be more skilled in concepts relating to ratio, and creative solving in problem sums, but that does not help much in secondary math which focuses on rules, and further algebra. A consistent effort in lower sec math goes a long way into ensuring a smooth secondary school life, as many students often forget that E-math is compulsory. Another factor to consider is that an A in lower sec math allows the student to take A-math, which is necessary for certain industries such as accounting, and those industries generally enjoy high employability. A-math is also a ticket to entering JC, which can pave the way for their children to enter university. It would be disastrous if a child were to underperform in lower sec math and be rejected from A-math, eventually crushing their dreams of entering JC.
What puzzles me is that parents, students, and even tuition centres can completely neglect lower sec math and science, and de-prioritize it from their lives. If you are reading this, and you are a parent who is seriously concerned with the well being of your lower sec child, and you are unable to find proper avenues for help in lower sec math/science, I urge you to sign up for my lower sec math and science classes and seek my expert opinion.
Mr YS Pang, Sec Math and Science tutor at SL
For lessons, contact 9385 534.
Location: Blk 644, Bukit Batok Central, #01-68. S(650644).
PM us on FB if you wish to have a free consultation.
https://www.facebook.com/SingaporeLearner/
Tips on how to Excel in Integrated Programme
The challenges of the Integrated Programme may be overwhelming for many of us, especially for those of us who are not well informed about the expectations that the school has for the students. This is a guideline on the mindset you must have, and steps you can take to excel in the IP system.
- Humble yourself
For many students who have entered the IP system, you would have scored at least 250 cut off points and above, making you the top 10% of the P6 cohort. Most students of your calibre would also have been top students in your individual primary schools, enjoying years of praise and accolades bestowed upon you by teachers and parents alike. In IP schools however, you are a dime a dozen, and the “miracle” that you pulled off in PSLE may not work as well as you think it will from Y1 onwards. Secondary school education is about discipline and practice, unlike PSLE questions. Humble yourself and be open to learning new things, as well as consulting your teachers and even your peers. You are in a new world now, with many people who may be more academically gifted than you. Seek help whenever necessary and keep an open mind.
- Be proactive
Learning never ends in the IP system. Unlike Express stream, some IP schools may not have an official textbook or guideline to follow, and teachers use their personal notes and base their syllabus off their own judgment. Being proactive allows you to anticipate such challenges and prepare for them before it becomes disastrous. Consult your seniors, and read deeply into topics that are taught. You will not find a guide in the O-level texts, but you can use them for practice before you are taught that certain topic. The school expects you to learn ahead, and you might be surprised to find that many of your peers are doing so during the holidays. Be proactive and don’t idle away your time.
- Learn smart
I have lost count of the amount of students I have seen struggle with the IP system because they hold on to the idea of rote learning and memorization. Unless you have a photographic memory, memorization will not serve you well. On the contrary, it will sabotage your grades. The IP system is about critical thinking, and often poses open ended questions. However, you can spot certain trends, and work more on such problems in anticipation of them coming out in exams. Learn what’s on your formula sheet, and only remember equations that are not on it. Take note of what teachers emphasize on during lessons and tutorials. Don’t blindly memorize, instead, link the information to each other and understand how they interact. Make efficient cheat sheets and short notes on your own. Another pro tip, the IP syllabus typically likes to omit or test less of what is not in the A-levels, so you might want to proceed with that in mind.
- Plan ahead
Plan your time well, and do not procrastinate. Attend to your assignments, homework and project work immediately as you might not get the chance to do so. This is because there can be events such as SYF, bringing about extra CCA sessions, leaving you drained and tired. Teachers can suddenly assign new projects or heavy workloads without coordinating with one another. Surprise quizzes may be conducted. There is a reason for this, and it is to prepare you to be a leader in a volatile working world. Plan ahead, do not procrastinate, and put in a consistent effort every single day. Remember, your score is determined over the year, not on one single exam.
Lastly, try to have fun in school. There are many great opportunities for you to take part in and show your leadership skills, but at the same time, you can make many great lifelong friends. Even as a working adult, I still keep in close contact with most of my friends from IP, and we are still inspiring each other to improve and grow together.
Y.S Pang, B.Eng (Hons), IP tutor at Singapore Learner and former IP student
OUR IP TUTORS:
Mr Pang: Mr Pang graduated with a B.Eng(Honors) from NUS, and has been coaching students in O-level/IP and A-level Mathematics and Science for more than 5 years. An alumnus of RVHS(IP) and an experienced tutor in IP/A-level education, Mr Pang is a results oriented tutor whose students do very well in exams through efficient learning methods and exam preparation skills. Mr Pang employs a variety of teaching methods to cater to every type of learner, as well as teaching them the skill of self diagnostics, giving them the ability to constantly spot and rectify their own errors. He takes pride in inspiring his students to become confident learners and critical thinkers.
Mr Ilyasa: An NIE-trained Teacher, Mr Ilyasa has been coaching students in O-Level & IP Chemistry, Physics and Math for more than 12 years. An alumnus of Raffles Institution, Mr Ilyasa holds a a Bachelor of Science degree from the NUS as well as a Master of Education (Curriculum & Teaching) degree from the National Institute of Education. Mr Ilyasa’s thinking and metacognitive approaches to problem solving has helped many students of varying abilities to excel in Math and the Sciences. He has coached students from many different schools and streams, including IP, SAP, and IB.
For INDIVIDUAL (1-1) TUITION, you may contact Mr Ilyasa at 97860411.
To find out more about our teaching methods for IP and IP Tuition:
Why it is important to invest in JC Tuition
Cost of JC tuition v.s Cost of private University
Why is JC tuition so expensive? This is because many parents deem it to be an appropriate level of investment into their child’s education, and to mitigate further costs down the road at the tertiary level of education. JC tutors are mostly ex-JC students, university educated, specialize in certain subjects, and have small class sizes. JC classes, unlike PSLE classes, only caters to a small proportion of students in Singapore, making it a niche and specialized product. All these factors contribute to its high cost.
It is not sufficient to just pass the A-levels, as local universities typically require students to score above 65 rank points to qualify for most of their courses. Popular courses are also highly competitive, requiring multiple As as a bare minimum. Polytechnic graduates and Foreign students can compete with JC students for quite a large proportion of the spots as well. With increasing competition and constantly limited vacancies, it can be difficult to enter your ideal University course in Singapore. For students who have failed to qualify for their chosen courses in a local University, they would have to take the course in a foreign University if they want to continue pursuing their dream career.
Costs of Singaporean University v.s Foreign University(annual)
The International Universities chosen are popular schools that Singaporeans attend, which are also of a similar standing in the QS ranking, compared to our local Universities.
This does not take into account the costs of lodging, food, and other basic needs while studying in a foreign University, which can cost anywhere around $14k and up.
Fees are reflected as annual fees, and converted into SGD
University of Melbourne (Australia)
Average Cost: $40k – $45k
Medicine or related course: $86k – $91k
University of Toronto (Canada)
Average Cost: $52k – $55k
Link: https://utsc.utoronto.ca/admissions/tuition-fees
University College London (UK)
Average Cost: $32k – $47k
Medicine or related course: $60.6k
Link: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/prospective-students/undergraduate/fees-funding/tuition-fees/overseas
University of Chicago (USA)
Average Cost: $65k
Medicine or related course: $72k
Link: https://www.ssa.uchicago.edu/tuition-fees
Singapore (NUS, NTU, SMU, etc)
Average Cost: $8k – $12k ($12k for Law)
Medicine or other related course: $28k – $34k
Link: https://dollarsandsense.sg/2018-cost-guide-singapore-universities-tuition-fee-comparison/
Students studying in local Universities are also eligible for various scholarships and concessions in fees as compared to studying overseas. The difference in fees per year can be from $20k – $55k per year.For most students taking their honors programme, that can mean up to 200k savings in their tertiary education.
As you can see, this is the reason why some parents are willing to pay a few thousand a year for quality JC tuition, in order to secure their children a spot in the local Universities, and save on University education costs.
To find out more about our JC Tuition programmes, please click below:
MCQ Prep for O-Level Physics, Chemistry & Science (Phy/Chem)
Start Date: THURSDAY 8 Nov 2018
Location: Blk 644, Bukit Batok Central, #01-68. S(650644).
Focus: CONCEPTUAL UNDERSTANDING & APPLICATION OF SKILLS
Format: Teaching + Worksheets + Discussions
Target Group: Current S4 students taking O-Level Exam and need final revision for MCQ.
Weekday Slots & Times:
(Thursday 8/11, Friday 9/11, Monday 12/11, Tuesday 13/11, Wednesday 14/11, Thursday 15/11)
2 Sessions a day, Session 1 (2.30pm – 4.30pm), Session 2 (5.30pm – 7.30pm)
Weekend Slots & Times
Saturday 10/11: 2.30pm – 4.30pm
Sunday 11/11: 11.00am – 1.00pm OR 1.30pm to 3.30pm
Fee: $50 per 2h session
Note: You can choose as many sessions as you want. You can also bring your own MCQs. You can do both Physics and Chemistry in the same session.
To book a session/sessions, SMS “MCQ”, YOUR NAME, DATES & TIMES to 88765498.
Please bring the fees every session or pay by full amount on first session. Thank you!
A-LEVEL GENERAL PAPER CRASH COURSE (SEPTEMBER)
Course Outline:
This programme aims to lay/fine-tune the foundations of the subject so that the student is able to feel comfortable and confident in attempting both essay and comprehension papers. It will also provide students with the necessary tools to continuously build upon these skill-sets beyond the duration of the workshop.
Topics to be covered:
a) Essay Writing techniques
b) Comprehension mastery
c) Content revision
Focus:
(i) Critical thinking frameworks. How to brainstorm effectively
(ii) Effective essay structure/formats
(iii) Various comprehension question types, including “how to score for the AQ”
(iv) Streamlining content memorization and focusing more on application of knowledge
Format: Teaching + Worksheets + Discussions
DATE: 3 September (Mon) to 5 Sep (Wed) 2018
TIME: 12.45 PM – 3.45 PM (Monday to Wednesday)
Fees: $540 (10% discount if sign up with a friend. Only $486 each for both of you)
Location: Blk 644, Bukit Batok Central, #01-68. S(650644).
Target Group: Current JC2/ Year 6 IP students who wish to better prepare for the GP Paper in their A Level year
Background of Tutor:
The tutor is an NUS graduate (Bachelors Degree with Merit), with a decade of teaching experience in a Junior College, and over 15 years of providing consultation in all domains revolving around linguistics and analytics.
To register, SMS to <STUDENT NAME>, <GPCC>,<BB> to 98530744 / 97860411
For any queries, kindly call or SMS to 98530744 / 97860411
H2 PHYSICS REVISION/RELEARNING BY TOPICS (SEPTEMBER)
Our experienced tutor is prepared to go through specific topics of H2 Physics to aid in your exam preparation.
Book the slots according to what you need.
No need to sit in through topics that you are confident in.
SCHEDULE
Days: 3rd Sep – 7th Sep (Mon – Fri)
Times: 730 pm – 10 pm
Days: 8th Sep – 9th Sep (Sat – Sun)
Times: 1000 am – 1230 pm
Location: Blk 644, Bukit Batok Central, #01-68. S(650644).
Target Group: Current JC students who cannot seem to reach their intended grades despite great effort.
To sign up, sms <Student name>, <J2H2SepPhysics>,<Date>,<Time> to +(65) 9786 0411
O-LEVEL E.MATHS CRASH COURSE DURING SEPTEMBER HOLIDAYS (2018)
Tutor background: He is an NIE trained ex MOE school teacher who has been COACHING students to master E Math for more than 12 years.
Days: 3rd Sep – 7th Sep (Mon – Fri)
Times: 930 am – 1230 pm
Location: Blk 644, Bukit Batok Central, #01-68. S(650644).
Target Group: Current Sec 3/4 students who cannot seem to reach their intended grades despite great effort.(Sec 3 students can attend Day 1 – Day 3)
To sign up, sms <Student name>, <SepEMath>,<Date>,<Time> to +(65) 9786 0411.
O LEVEL BIOLOGY INTENSIVE RELEARNING & REVISION JUNE 2018
Learning outcomes:
1) To lay/fine-tune the foundations of the subject so that the student is able to feel comfortable and confident when tackling exam papers.
2) To strengthen students understanding of the fundamentals.
3) To develop students’ interest in studying Biology for ‘O’ levels or beyond.
Topics to be covered:
(A) Principles of Biology:
- Cell Structures, Molecules and Movement of substances
(B) Maintenance of life:
- How human and plant get the nutrients they need?
- How are nutrients being transported in human and plant?
- How do humans and plant breathe?
- How do humans maintain body temperature?
(C) Regulation process:
- Metabolism and reaction
- How do humans excrete the wastes it produces?
- How do humans response to stimulus and threats?
(D) Continuity of life:
- How do cells multiply?
- How human and plant reproduce?
(E) Hereditary:
- What is the fundamental of genetic?
- How genetic information pass on to next generations?
(F) Interaction between Organisms and their Environment
- How does carbon flow from environment to food chain to organisms to earth?
- How do human activities interact with ecosystem?
Format: Teaching + Worksheets + Discussions
DATE: 5 June (Tue) to 7 June (Thu) 2018
TIME: 11.00 AM – 12.30 PM & 2.00 PM – 3.30 PM
Location: Blk 644, Bukit Batok Central, #01-68. S(650644).
Biology syllabus reference
https://www.seab.gov.sg/content/syllabus/olevel/2018Syllabus/6093_2018.pdf
Additional Biology materials
- GLM Biology ‘O’ level conceptual learning assessment book
- GLM Understanding Science Biology (Concept recapitulation practices)
- ‘O’ Level yearly Biology 2008-2017 (Singapore Asia Publisher)
To register, sms <Student Name><BIOLOGY> to 98530744 / 97860411.
For any queries, kindly call or SMS to 98530744 / 97860411.
GENERAL PAPER (GP) INTENSIVE RELEARNING & REVISION JUNE 2018
“A 
good teacher is one that makes himself/herself less necessary”
Course Outline:
This programme aims to lay/fine-tune the foundations of the subject so that the student is able to feel comfortable and confident in attempting both essay and comprehension papers. It will also provide students with the necessary tools to continuously build upon these skill-sets beyond the duration of the workshop.
Topics to be covered:
a) Essay Writing techniques
b) Comprehension mastery
c) Content revision
Focus:
(i) Critical thinking frameworks. How to brainstorm effectively
(ii) Effective essay structure/formats
(iii) Various comprehension question types, including “how to score for the AQ”
(iv) Streamlining content memorization and focusing more on application of knowledge
Format: Teaching + Worksheets + Discussions
DATE: 11 June (Mon) to 13 Jun (Wed) 2018
TIME: 1.00 PM – 4.00 PM
Location: Blk 644, Bukit Batok Central, #01-68. S(650644).
Target Group: Current JC2/ Year 6 IP students who wish to better prepare for the GP Paper in their A Level year
Background of Tutor:
The tutor is an NUS graduate (Bachelors Degree with Merit), with a decade of teaching experience in a Junior College, and over 15 years of providing consultation in all domains revolving around linguistics and analytics.
To register, sms <Student Name><J2GPJUNE> to 98530744 / 97860411.
For any queries, kindly call or SMS to 98530744 / 97860411.