Social Studies Lesson Week 07

Discussion Topic: Who are the vulnerable in our society?

• Focused on groups such as:

• The poor

• The elderly living alone

• Question posed: Whose responsibility is this?

Padlet Activity: Success Criteria

• Goal: Describe, evaluate, and explain how specific factors can contribute to issues surrounding vulnerable populations.

• Key characteristics of selected factors must be identified.

Consolidation Activity

• Link provided: Padlet link

Interesting Observations

• Discussion on the government's obligation to support the elderly, emphasizing its role as the head authority in Singapore.

• Highlighted the need for community and governmental efforts to work hand-in-hand to ensure well-being.

Thoughtful Argument

• Suggested a balance between government responsibility (large-scale programs for healthcare, housing, etc.) and community-based initiatives (localized support for specific needs).

• Importance of direct engagement and innovation from communities.

Examples of Government Initiatives

• KidSTART Pilot: supports children under 6 years with access to healthcare and education.

• Workfare Income Supplement Scheme: aids low-income workers.

• Silver Support Scheme: assists elderly citizens implemented in 2016.

Chapter 2: Functions and Roles of Government

• Definition of what constitutes the good of society:

• Includes health, security, access to education and justice, collective well-being, fairness, inclusivity, social harmony, and equity.

• Stakeholders Identified:

• Individuals, communities, government, businesses, organizations.

Democracy Overview

• Definition: Derived from Greek, meaning rule by the people (demos = people, kratia = rule).

• Representative Democracy: citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf to ensure limited government power in decision-making.

Three Main Functions of the Singapore Government:

1. Makes and passes laws

2. Implements and enforces laws

3. Interprets and applies laws

Branches of Government and Functions:

• Legislature: Composed of Parliament, responsible for making laws.

• Executive: Led by the Prime Minister's Cabinet, enforces laws and implements policies.

• Judiciary: Supreme Court and lower courts, administer justice and interpretations of law.

Government Responsibilities:

• Ensure safety, justice, support economic growth, and provide access to essential services (healthcare, education).

• Safeguard national sovereignty and economic interests.

Law and Order in Singapore:

• Strong legal framework and deterrent penalties, e.g., Misuse of Drugs Act and Vandalism Act.

• Role of community in law enforcement through neighbourhood watch programs.

Economic and Social Well-being:

• Economic Development Board (EDB): attracts MNCs, creating jobs.

• CPF (Central Provident Fund): savings scheme for citizens' retirement, healthcare, and housing needs.

• Universal healthcare through MediShield Life and affordable public housing.

Education & Workforce Development Policies:

• SkillsFuture Initiative: encourages lifelong learning through credits for upgrading skills.

• Compulsory Education Act: ensuring access to primary education.

Promoting National Interests:

• Importance of defending sovereignty and maintaining territorial integrity.

• Policies to secure economic prosperity and social cohesion, promoting racial and religious harmony.

Diploмatic Relations and Trade:

• Singapore maintains strong ties for stability and economic growth.

• Importance of food and energy security, with goals like the "30 by 30" initiative for self-sufficiency in food production.

Conclusion and Reflection:

• Discussion prompts on governance, law and order, economic support schemes, and community roles in social well-being.