The H1 General Paper syllabus and examination are intended for all candidates who follow the General Paper course of study at the H1 level. It continues to underscore maturity of thought, independent thinking and the proficient use of language.
The syllabus aims to enable candidates to achieve the following outcomes:
2.1 Understand better the world in which they live by fostering a critical awareness of continuity and change in the human experience
2.2 Appreciate the interrelationship of ideas across disciplines
2.3 Broaden their global outlook while enabling them to remain mindful of shared historical, social and cultural experiences both within Singapore and regionally
2.4 Develop maturity of thought and apply critical reading and creative thinking skills
2.5 Develop the skills of clear, accurate and effective communication
2.6 Develop the skills of evaluation of arguments and opinions
2.7 Promote extensive and independent reading and research.
3. The candidate will be expected to demonstrate:
3.1 A broad and mature understanding of a range of subject matter from the humanities and culture as well as science and technology, including current affairs, issues of global significance and issues of significance to Singapore. This includes the ability to:
3.2 Comprehension, interpretation and application of a range of subject matter. This includes the ability to:
• comprehend the text(s) in detail and as a whole
• identify information
• infer relevant information
Candidates are tested on two papers. Paper 1 and Paper 2 will be taken at separate sittings on the same day
Paper 1: Essay
5.1 Twelve questions will be set, of which candidates answer one. This will allow candidates the
opportunity to express an informed, critical, creative and relevant response.
5.2 The suggested topic areas are:
5.3 Questions will not necessarily be set on every topic area and will not be set in any particular order.
They will be general in nature and require candidates to draw on their knowledge from across
disciplines to show an awareness of significant global/national/local issues.
5.4 The ability to convey a sustained and well-thought-out argument will be important. Examples will be
needed to support that argument.
6. Paper 2: Comprehension
6.1 One or two passages of continuous prose will be set. The passage(s) should allow for comparative analysis.
6.2 There will be a range of questions on the text(s), requiring candidates to demonstrate their ability to comprehend, explain, infer, evaluate and summarise.
6.3 Candidates will also be required to synthesise information and respond to concepts or ideas
conveyed. They will apply their response, based on their understanding and interpretation of the text(s) as a whole, to a task derived from the text(s).
Full General Paper syllabus details can be read in the SEAB H1 General Paper Syllabus 2023.
