LOWER SECONDARY HISTORY

HISTORY REVISION ON 4 AUGUST 2009

2009-07-30T20:27:00.000-07:00

To all Secondary 2 pupils:

Kindly note that the test period scheduled on 4 August 2009 Tuesday Day 7 is for a revision exercise.

It will be on Chapter 6 and 7.

The test/revision format is simply content-based short questions requiring short sentences.

Chapter 6 How did WWII affect Singapore?

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History Test Corrections 30 June 2009

2009-07-12T22:42:00.000-07:00

a) Study Source A. What information does Source A reveal about Singapore’s economy between 1929 and 1933? Explain your answer. (4m)

Level 1 Lifting without inference and explanation (1m)

Source A shows that the value of Singapore’s trade decreased from 1172 million in 1929 to 513 million in 1933.

Level 2 Inference unsupported (2m)

Source A shows that Singapore’s economy was badly affected. Singapore’s prosperity depended on trade and with decreasing trade, its economy suffered.

Level 3 Inference supported and explained relevant to question focus (3-4m)

Source A shows that the value of the import fell drastically from 655 to 262 million while that of the export value fell from 517 to 251 million between 1929 and 1933. This implies that there was less trade conducted as the demand for raw materials probably shrank during this period. Hence with less trade, Singapore’s economy was badly affected as it meant that profits would be reduced greatly.

In addition, with the total value of trade falling from 1172 to 513 million, it suggests that many traders would have suffered severe losses and resulted in loss of income. Hence many businesses would have been gravely affected and in turn causing the economy to collapse.

b) Compare Sources B and C. How similar are they in showing the effects of the Great Depression on

Singapore

’s entrepot status? Explain your answer. (6m)

L1: Similarity OR/AND difference in source type/ source provenance (1-2m)

Both sources are secondary sources and both are adapted from historical references.

L2: Similarity OR/AND difference in source content, unsupported (2-3m)

(Award 2m for 1 similarity and 3m for 1 similarity and 1 difference unsupported)

Sources B and C are similar as both shows Singapore was heavily dependent on foreign trade and with the Great Depression, this status would be badly affected.

Or/And

Sources B and C are different as Source B shows the growth of Singapore’s trade with the increased usage of steamships while Source C shows the decrease in Singapore’s trade due to the fall in demand and prices of rubber.

L3: Similarity OR/AND difference in source content, supported (4-5m)

Sources B and C are similar in showing the effects of the Great Depression on Singapore’s entrepot status. Source B shows that many European and American traders made Singapore their port of call. This implies that much trade was probably conducted using Singapore as a transaction port. Hence, with the Great Depression, it would result in less traders coming and less trade would be conducted thus affecting Singapore’s status as an entrepot centre. (Criteria)

Similarly, Source C shows that there was a heavy decrease in demand for raw materials by the western countries. This suggests that less trade would pass through Singapore as these raw materials were exported from Singapore to the other countries. With less demand and trade, Singapore’s status as an entrepot centre was gravely affected. (Criteria)

In addition, Source B shows that Singapore’s status as a port for collecting and distributing products grew in importance. This implies that Singapore’s lifeline was dependent on entrepot trade and with the Great Depression, its status was severely threatened. Similarly, Source C shows that Singapore’s economy was lifted by the production of automobiles and radios. This implies that Singapore must have been an important entrepot port where raw materials and manufactured products were distributed. With the Great Depression, this entreport status was gravely affected. (Criteria)

However, Sources B and C are also different in the presentation of information. Source B presents a positive picture of Singapore’s trade increasing and the prosperity of the settlement due to its entrepot status. This meant that in good times, Singapore’s entrepot status grew. However, in bad times like the Great Depression, its status will be severely affected. In contrast, Source C shows a negative picture of Singapore’s trade which was badly affected by falling demand and prices of raw materials which resulted in the entrepot status being threatened.

L4: Similarity AND difference in content and purpose supported with reference to contextual knowledge (6m)

Level 3 answer plus:

Both sources tend to educate the readers regarding the dependency of Singapore on external factors. In Source B, Singapore’s trade grew as a result of the demand for raw materials by foreign countries and in Source C, Singapore’s trade decrease due to a fall in demand for these raw materials. This implies that Singapore’s entrepot status was strongly influenced by global forces. Hence, both sources are similar in purpose which is to emphasize that Singapore’s status as an entrepot port is vulnerable and was affected in both positive and negative way.

1) Explain how the opening of the Suez Canal affected Singapore in the late 19^th Century to the early 20^th Century CE. (5m)

Level 1 State the benefits of using the Suez Canal between Europe and Singapore (1m)

The Suez Canal shortened the distance and time taken to travel between Europe and Singapore.

Level 2 Describe the benefits of using the Suez Canal between Europe and Singapore (2-3m)

Before the opening of the Suez Canal, traders from Europe going to the east had to sail around the Cape of Good Hope. This Cape route is long and dangerous and took about 120 days of travel time. With the opening of the Suez Canal, the distance is reduced and travelling time was cut to about 80 days. This shortened journey and travelling time facilitated more traders coming to Singapore and thus Singapore benefitted from an increased volume of trade.

(Award 2m for description of benefits and 3m for highlighting effects on Singapore)

Level 3 Explain the implications of the Suez Canal and its positive effects on Singapore’s trade (4-5m)

(Award 5m if answer shows understanding of the inter-connectedness of the Suez Canal and the use of steamships)

The opening of the Suez Canal shortened the distance between the East and the West. Prior to this event, traders using the Cape route took about 120 days to sail from London to Singapore. With the Suez Canal, the travelling time was reduced to 80 days. This meant that the cost of shipping goods was reduced due to the savings in distance and time and thus Singapore benefited greatly with the Suez Canal as traders were able to make more profits.

In addition, the opening of the Suez Canal brought about a great expansion in Singapore’s trade. This was due to the increased speed and volume of ships passing through the Straits of Melaka and calling at the port of Singapore to refuel and replenish food supplies. Singapore thus maintained its role as an important port of call and trading centre. (4m)

The opening of the Suez Canal also ushered in the heavy usage of steamships for transporting goods. This was due to the wind conditions in the Red Sea where the wind blows in a north-southerly direction. This was detrimental to traders using sailing vessels and hence many traders used steamships instead.

With more steamships being used, it is thus not feasible to cut through the Indian Ocean to reach the east because of the need to replenish coal. Hence many coaling stations were set up along the coastline from India to Southeast Asia. This in turn indirectly forced the steamships to go via the Straits of Melaka and as a results, many traders made Singapore a stopover as it was conveniently located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. With steamships arriving in an ever increasing volume, Singapore became an important coaling station and port facilities were improved. This in turn benefited Singapore greatly and contributed to its prosperity.

History Test 30 June 2009

2009-06-30T18:06:00.000-07:00

For pupils who are on Leave of Absence and missed the history test on 30 June, you may wish to do the test as a practice. When you return to school, submit your work and let me mark. The marks however will not be counted in the CA.

Comparison Practice Question

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As part of your revision you may wish to try this comparison question.

Source A

An account of the Immigration Restriction Ordinance in early Singapore

In order to cope with rising unemployment, quotas were imposed on Chinese immigrants, and these were reduced in 1931 and further in 1932. The effect was dramatic. Chinese immigrants dropped from 242,000 in 1930 to less than 28,000 in 1933, and the fall was most marked among adult males, against whom the legislation was primarily aimed at. From 158,000 in 1930, their numbers fell to less than 14,000 in 1933.

Extracted from A History of Singapore 1819-1988 2^nd Edition, C.M. Turnbull, Oxford University Press

Source B

An account of the Great Depression of the 1930s

Asia was hit by the Great Depression due to its dependence on the export of raw materials with Europe and America, predominantly rubber and tin for the automotive industry. Asian trade fell sharply as America and Europe were gripped by the depression. Firms in Asia responded by cutting their workforce and reducing wages.

In Singapore, unemployment and poverty rose, disproportionately affecting the lower classes.

Adapted from http://wiki.answers.com/Q/How_did_the_great_depression_affect_Asia

Study Sources A and B. How similar are they in showing the effects of the Great Depression on Singapore in the 1930s. Explain. (6m)

Note: For this question, bear in mind the question type and question focus. Your answer should always reflect the question focus. Since it is a comparison question, then the question focus is also the criteria for comparison.

TRY!

June Holidays History Lesson for Sec 2

2009-06-22T01:12:00.001-07:00

To all pupils of Sec 2 under Mr Ang for History.

Please note that there will be no lesson during the last week of the June Holidays. As discussed in the last week of Term 2, there was an intended lesson to prepare you all for the History test on 30 June. As I just returned from Thailand, therefore I deem it necessary to stay home for quarantine as Thailand is one of the infected areas for H1N1.

I will be posting a question for comparison source-based.

Check back regularly this week for more updates.

Thanks and apologies for not able to conduct the lesson.

Regards
Mrang

SAQ Sample Answer as discussed in class

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Elaborate how the invention of steamships and the opening of the Suez Canal helped Singapore prosper in the 1800s. (5m)

Level 1 – Describe the invention of steamships and opening of Suez Canal (1-2m)

n addition, the opening of the Suez canal shortened the distance between London and Singapore. Traders took about 76 days to travel between the two places. Hence this implies that the shortened resulted in more trade. (2)

Level 2 – Explain HOW invention of steamships and opening of Suez canal helped Singapore prosper (separately) (3-4m)

Due to the industrial revolution, steamships were invented. With the use of steamships, traders from London took a shorter time to travel to other countries like Singapore. And with shorter time, the use of steamships made trading more popular and efficient. This meant that more traders would stopover at Singapore using it as a port-of-call. With the numbers, more trade was brought into the country resulting in more business and hence the growth in wealth. (3)

In addition, the opening of the Suez canal shortened the distance between London and Singapore. Traders took about 76 days to travel between the two places. Hence this implies that the shortened resulted in more trade. With more traders coming, the variety of goods increased and thus this attracted more traders to flock to Singapore where the locals benefited from increased trading activity. Hence Singapore’s wealth increased. (4)

Level 3 – Explain HOW invention of steamships complement the opening of the Suez Canal in Singapore’s prosperity. (5m)

Ships going by suez canal faced the NS winds, this forced traders to use steamships instead of sailing vessels. Using of steamships required replenishment of coal and going by the suez canal, traders would naturally use the straits of Melaka which indirectly forced them to use Singapore as a coaling station.

Finally explain how these would benefit Singapore. (DIY)

History Assignment Chapter 5 Assessment Rubrics

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For your consideration when you are attempting the write-up. Do take note of the requirements and criteria.

History Test 3 Correction 5 May 2009

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Source-based Question

a) Study Source A. What does this source reveal about how the Malays were treated? Explain your answer. (4m)

Level 1 Lifting without inference and explanation (1m)

Level 2 Inference supported but unexplained (2-3m)

Level 3 Inference supported and explained relevant to question focus (4m)

Chapter 5 How did external events before WW1 affect Singapore (Lesson PPT Slides)

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SAQ Sample Answer and Guide

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To what extent was the British Government successful in improving the welfare of the people in Singapore in the 19th Century CE? Explain your answer. (5m)

Sample Answer:

Level 1 Listing British Government’s measures to improve social services (1m)

The British Government improved the Police Force, set up Chinese Protectorate, schools and hospitals.

Level 2 Describe measures implemented by the British to improve welfare of people (2m)

The British government improved the police force by recruiting more officers who could speak Chinese. These officers were also given better pay and proper training. Thomas Dunman was made full time police chief in 1846 and he took an interest in the welfare of his police officers.

In addition the British government also set up the Chinese Protectorate to look into the abuses of the coolie trade and to protect the sinkehs. Officials ensured that the sinkehs were not ill-treated by the coolie-agents and employers. Contracts between coolies and employers were registered to prevent abuses.

Lastly, the British also set up schools to provide education for the people so as to fill up government posts. Hospitals were set up to provide medical services to the masses.

Level 3 Explain measures with reference to success of improving welfare of the people (3-4m)

The British government was successful in improving the welfare of the people in early Singapore. Due to the problems created by the Chinese secret societies, the people lived in fear and anxiety. To solve the problem, the British government improved the police force by giving its officers proper training and better pay. It also employed capable officials who could speak the local dialects so that they could resolve conflicts among the locals easily. Hence law and order improved and the people could go about their livelihood without much worry about their safety.

The British also set up the Chinese Protectorate to look into the abuses of the coolie trade as well as regulate the activities of the Chinese secret societies. The officials of the Chinese Protectorate ensured that the sinkehs were protected. They achieved this by ensuring that the coolie-agents and employers honoured the work contracts through registration. In addition, they also rescued coolies who were sent to work in neighbouring countries against their will. Regular inspection was made to ensure that the coolies were not ill-treated and that their living conditions were acceptable. Other measures included preventing girls from being forced into prostitution and also rescuing girls from brothels. The efforts of the Chinese Protectorate were successful in addressing some of the abuses of the coolie trade.

In addition, the British government also stepped up its efforts to provide for social services like education and health. Schools were set up to provide education for locals so that they could fill up posts in the government offices and trading companies. This provided the people with a means of living and hence their welfare improved. Health care was also given to the people when the government set up the Public Health Department. This measure was taken to prevent the spread of infectious diseases which would greatly affect the economic prosperity of Singapore. As such, the people’s welfare improved.

Level 4 Explain measures with reference to success and limitations of the efforts by the British Government (5m)

Level 3 answer plus:

While the British government did improve the social services for the people, much was done in order to meet their own objectives. In the area of law and order, the British Government improved the police force and set up the Chinese Protectorate to see to the problems created by the Chinese community. However, this was done mainly because the British felt that the problems created the Chinese were detrimental to the economic health of the settlement. They did so probably to ensure that their trading interests was protected and not disrupted by these problems.

In addition, the structure of the British Government was made up primarily of British officials. There were very few Asian representatives in the Legislative Council and as such it was very difficult for these Asian to effectively bring about improvements to the masses. Also, it was not until 1924 that the number of non-official members was increased and equaled to the official members of the council. This suggests that the British Government was not really concerned about improving the welfare of the people but more to safeguard their own trading interests.

More importantly, the British were seen to be the Colonial masters. In the government service, Asians who were more qualified were not given the opportunities to hold senior positions and were also paid lower than their British counterparts. Social discrimination was also practiced where Asians were discouraged from traveling in first-class carriages and they were not allowed to use the dance floor or bar reserved solely for the Europeans. These discriminatory practices did not augur well with the locals and thus the rift between masters and ‘servants’ grew wider.

Hence, the British may be successful in improving certain aspects of the welfare of the people through its measures but they were not very successful in raising the level of happiness and loyalty of the people. This would affect the welfare of the people as they felt that they were being discriminated against.

Supplementary Reading for Chapter 4

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PLEASE TAKE NOTE:

Sec 2PE and 2GR. You need not do the exercise on Page 31 of your workbook. Rather, read the notes given for the topic regarding the measures taken by the British Government to improve law and order. Thereafter, kindly attempt this question and hand in answers by Thursday 30 April 09.

Sec 2CO 2SE/GY and 2PR, kindly attempt the question too. Deadline as above.

QUESTION:

To what extent was the British Government successful in improving the welfare of the people in Singapore in the early 19th Century CE? Explain your answer. (5m)

Reading for Chapter 4 (Revision for Upcoming Test)

2009-04-24T06:08:00.000-07:00

Due to the upcoming test on the 5 May 2009, I deem it necessary that you go to the following links and do some reading up to supplement your textbook.

http://infopedia.nl.sg/articles/SIP_1346_2008-12-10.html

http://www.streetdirectory.com/travel_guide/print_article.php?focusId=75

Chapter 4 How did the British govern Singapore before World War 2?

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Answer Scheme to Test on 31 March 2009

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a) Study Source A.

What information does Source A reveal about the treatment of the early immigrants in Singapore in the early 19^th Century? Explain your answer. (4m)

Level 1 Lifting without inference and explanation (1m)

Source A shows that the government spent nothing on schools and that poverty was unobserved by the Europeans.

Level 2 Inference supported but unexplained (2-3m)

Source A shows that though poverty, crimes and diseases were rife, the government did nothing. This suggests that the government did not care about the people.

In addition, Source A shows that though many were dying from lack of food, it was unobserved by the Europeans. This shows that they did not put in any effort to make the situation better.

Level 3 Inference supported and explained relevant to question focus (4m)

Source A shows that the British government did not spend anything on social needs though Singapore was growing faster than it could cope. This shows that the British government did not care about providing any social benefits for the people. Therefore, the immigrants were not treated well and their welfare was probably neglected.

In addition, Source A shows that though disease and poverty were rife and that many were dying, it was unobserved by the Europeans. This implies that the British government had deliberately ignored the plight of the immigrants and hence, these people were not treated as important but merely there to serve the Europeans.

b) Study Source B. How useful is Source B in showing the reasons for the coming of the immigrants to

Singapore

in the early 19^th Century? Explain your answer. (6m)

Level 1 One sided answer. Useful or Not useful without explanations (1m)

Source B is useful in showing the pull factors which attracted the immigrants to come to Singapore.

Source B is not useful in showing all the pull factors which attracted the immigrants to come to Singapore

Level 1 Two sided answer with no explanations (2m)

Both of Level 1 answers

Level 2 One sided answer. Useful or not useful with inferences unsupported (3m)

Source B is useful in showing the reasons for the coming of the immigrants. From Source B, Raffles made Singapore a free port with no custom and port dues. This implies that it was very attractive for the immigrants to come to trade.

Source B is not useful in showing the reasons for the coming of the immigrants. From Source B, it did not state the other pull factors which attracted the immigrants to come like free trade and safe environment.

Level 3 One sided answer. Useful or not useful with inferences supported (4m)

Source B is useful in showing some of the reasons for the coming of the immigrants to Singapore. From Source B, Raffles made Singapore a free port free from custom and port dues, This implies that traders would probably make more profits due to this regulation and hence attracted more. Source B is therefore useful in providing some information about the pull factors which attracted the immigrants to come.

Source B has its limitations. While showing that one of the pull factors was free port which attracted the immigrants to come, Source B did not provide other pull factors like the free trade policy which allowed the immigrants to trade freely in Singapore. It also did not show that Singapore was safe due to the protection of the British and hence attracted more people.

In addition, Source B did not provide any push factors. For example, in China and India, people were forced to leave their countries due to overpopulation, natural disasters and wars which caused shortage of food and lack of jobs. In addition, the source also did not provide the reasons why the Europeans came which was to set up factories and business and to make more profits. Other push factors include that of wars and corrupted governments which forced many like the Chinese and Malays to come to Singapore for a better life.

Level 3 Two sided answer. Useful and not useful with inferences unsupported (4m)

Both of Level 2 answers

Level 4 Two sided answer. Useful and not useful with inferences supported (5m)

Both of Level 3 answers inferences supported

Award 6m if answer shows clear understanding with examples that different immigrants also came due to different reasons and not just general push and pull factors

Short Answer Question

1) Explain how the contributions of the early immigrants brought about economic and social progress for

Singapore

in the 19^th Century. (5m)

Level 1 State what the occupations of the immigrants were (1m)

The early immigrants were coolies, labourers, traders, businessmen, hawkers etc.

Level 2 Describe the occupations of the immigrants (2-3m)

2m for 2 groups of the immigrants with description of their occupations

3m for 3 groups or more of the immigrants with description of their occupations

Level 3 Explain how the occupations of the immigrants impact the economic and social progress of Singapore (4-5m)

4m for only economic or social impact

5m for BOTH economic and social impact

Many Chinese came as either unskilled labourers or as skilled workers. These immigrants were engaged in the entrepot trade of Singapore. For the unskilled labourers they provided labour services, acting as porters and carried cargoes from ships to warehouses and vice versa. Thus, they ensured that the trading activites were carried out smoothly and contributed to the growth of Singapore as a trading centre. In addition, the skilled workers provided services by acting as middlemen between the European and straits traders. Trade grew as traders were able to conduct business even with language barrier. Hence the middlemen ensured the smooth transaction of trading activities and contributed to the economic prosperity of Singapore as a trading centre.

The early Indian immigrants acted mainly as policemen and chettiars. The Indian policemen or sepoys helped to ensure law and order among the communities. They thus provided safety for traders and businessmen to conduct their businesses and attracted more trade leading to the growth of Singapore as a trading centre. In addition Indian chettiars or moneylenders provided aspiring traders with capital to set up their own business. These contributed to the growth of small scaled businesses like services which supported the economic progress of Singapore.

The British also brought in Indian prisoners to help with the construction of roads and the clearing of jungles. This enabled the infrastructure of Singapore to be developed and thus supported the smooth transaction of trade as roads provided efficiency in transportation.

The Malays were mostly engaged in providing basic necessities like foodstuff. This ensured that the other communities were sufficiently provided for and thus contributed to the overall infrastructure of the settlement and enabled Singapore to grow rapidly as a trading centre. In addition, they were also skilled boat makers and repairers. This occupation provided small boats which aid in the transportation of goods from the ships to the harbour.

The Europeans came as professionals and businessmen. They provided the necessary capital and set up factories and companies which in turn provided employment for the other communities. In addition, they also set up agency houses which acted as distribution centres for European products. This created awareness of Singapore as a distribution centre and enhanced its growth as a trading centre.

In addition, people from the various races especially the more successful businessmen were motivated by the need to help their less fortunate countrymen. Thus they came forward and provided social services like hospitals and schools. Some people like Tan Tock Seng and Syed Mohamed bin Alsagoff spent large sums of money on providing medical services and amenities like water wells for the community. They also spent money to ensure that the poor had proper burials. The establishment of the Paupers’ Hospital on Pearl’s Hill in 1844 and the Thong Chai Medical Institution in 1867 showed the social welfare and care provided by the rich businessmen for their fellow countrymen. Their acts of philanthropy made life less miserable for those less fortunate and thus helped in the social progress of Singapore.

Homework for Chapter 4

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Source-based Question (Comparison)

Attempt the question and submit your work to Mr Ang on Friday 17 April 2009.

Source A

A historian account of Chinese secret societies during the early 1800s

The town was unsafe. In the early 1800s, the main danger came from gang robberies, which were reputed to be the work of Chinese secret societies. Gangs of up to 200 Chinese with blackened faces raided parts of the town every night. The whole town lived in fear, and the tiny police force prudently kept out of the way until the gangsters had gone.

Adapted from A history of Singapore 1819 – 1988 (2^nd Edition) by Mary Turnbull, 1989

Source B

An account of Chinese secret societies by Sir Cecil Clementi Smith, governor of the Straits Settlements 1887 -1893

Secret societies were never able to reconstruct the large organizations or recover the widespread power which they wielded before 1890. Gang fights remain frequent but the day of large scale secret society riots which paralyzed Singapore was over. “You will be glad to know that the policy (of registration) has been quite successful. I have made careful inquiry since I came back, and am quite satisfied that there has been no attempt at resuscitation, and that the dangerous societies are entirely blotted out. Of course a careful watch must be maintained. May this cheering view prove exact!”

Adapted from a letter from Sir C. C. Smith, dated December 29, 1890

Compare Sources A and B. How different are the sources on their account of Chinese secret societies as lawless and fearful? Explain your answer. (6m)

The Free and Contract Labourers

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As discussed in class, the free labourer is able to pay for his own passage to Singapore. As such, he is free from all obligations to any coolie-agent or employer. He is thus free to seek employment from anyone who is willing to employment him. That allows him the freedom of choice and since he is not bound to any contract, he is not controlled by the coolie-agent. As such, he is not susceptible to the abuses of these coolie-agents.

In contrast, the contract labourer will have to sign a contract promising to work for anyone who is willing to pay for his passage. That means he has no freedom of choice for jobs and he is obligated to work for anyone even if the employer is from other countries. In addition, the coolie-agent is responsible for the coolies from the time they leave China to the time they reach Singapore. Very commonly, the coolies are subjected to the abuses of these agents. For example, poor conditions onboard the ships and deplorable living conditions in warehouses when they arrive.

Samle Answer

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Source A is useful in showing some information about the life of a coolie. From Source A, the coolie was sold as a ‘little pig’ and he did not know where he was taken (evidence). This implies that he might have been a contract labourer and he was uncertain about his destination (conclusion) Hence life for this coolie could have been very miserable and controlled. (explanation)

In addition, source A shows that the ‘towkays’ threatened and beat the coolies (evidence). This suggests that the coolies were probably abused constantly by their supervisors (conclusion) Therefore life could have been very harsh for this coolie (explanation with reference to the question focus.

However the source has its limitations. While showing the account of one coolie, it did not show the lives of other CHINESE coolies. For example, the other Chinese immigrants could have been engaged in jobs like traders and middlemen who probably prospered with their business. Hence life for them could have been better.

In addition, the source did not show other races like the Europeans, Malays and Indians who were engaged in occupations like chettiars, craftsmen and hawkers who probably led a less restricted life as they might not be abused.

Finally, the source shows the coolie who seemed to be a contract labourer as he could be ‘SOLD’. Source did not show the lives of the FREE labourers who could have paid for their own passage and thus free to choose their own jobs. Hence life for them could have been much more pleasant and unrestricted as compared to the contract labourer.

Source-based Practice

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Source A

The experiences of a coolie who first arrived in Singapore in the mid-19^th Century

We came on shore and I was sold as a ‘little pig’. This morning I was taken to a boat with others but I didn’t know where they were taking us to. But we heard that the place is 11 or 12 days’ sail from this place, and that we had to work in tin-mines. Of course we refused to go to another country, as we had understood Singapore to be our destination, and I can’t work as a miner. On our way to the boat we refused to proceed, so the towkays (supervisors) threatened and beat us.

Adapted from Travellers’ Tales of Old Singapore

1. Study Source A. How useful is the source in showing the lives of the immigrants after they arrived in early Singapore? Explain your answer. (6m)

Sample Answer for Source-based Question

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1) Study Source A. How useful is Source A in showing the contributions of the early immigrants in Singapore? Explain your answer. (5m)

Source A is useful in showing the contributions of the early immigrants. From the source, coolies provided labour services in loading and unloading coal. (evidence) This suggests that the coolies played a very important role in early Singapore as they helped to ensure that trade could be conducted efficiently.

In addition, from the source, the Chinese coolies were seen to be loading/ unloading coal onto a steamship. This suggests that the coolies were probably working for rich businessmen who owned the steamship. (conclusion) This meant that the Chinese coolies played a very important role in helping trade to grow as their labour was vital to the businessmen.

However, Source A has its limitations. According to the source, only Chinese coolies were shown loading and unloading coal. (evidence). The source failed to provide other information regarding the other races like the Malays, Indians and Europeans. These races also contributed to the growth of Singapore as an early settlement as they provided basic necessities like food and other specialized skills like administration of the country. These services were crucial to the society where a way of life was developed and the country could then prosper.

In addition, Source A only shows the Chinese providing labour. It did not show the other occupations of the Chinese. (evidence) For example, the Chinese also acted as middlemen who helped transacted between the Europeans and the Straits merchants. This contribution helped more people trade and as a result leading to the growth of Singapore as a trading centre.

Notes for Chapter 3

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History Test 10 Feb 2009 Sample Answers

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2009-02-08T20:10:00.000-08:00

Explain the weaknesses of Penang and Bencoolen in serving British interests in the Malay Archipelago in the 18^th Century CE. (4m)

The British interest in this region was the lucrative China-India trade. This trade has become very lucrative and profitable for the British and hence there was a need to safeguard and protect it. However the Dutch monopoly of the trade routes threatened the British shipping and interest. There was thus a need to break Dutch monopoly so that China trade could continue.

The British needed to find a port to attract trade and to check Dutch activities. However Penang and Bencoolen were unsuitable. Penang was located too far up north from the main trading areas and hence unable to attract trade. This meant that Penang was unsuitable as a port to break Dutch monopoly. In addition, Bencoolen was located on the wrong side of Sumatra facing the Indian Ocean. This meant that the British could not use it to protect their ships along the Straits of Melaka and also not able to monitor Dutch activities. Hence it cannot effectively check dutch expansion in this region.

History Source-based Question Practice Chapter 2

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Source A

The Dutch trading activities in the East Indies in the 18^th Century CE

With a huge fleet of warships and a strong army, the Dutch were enforcing stricter rules about trade. They did not allow the British to trade freely in the Archipelago. British ships were not allowed to trade with any of the Dutch-controlled ports except Batavia (modern day Jakarta). The British traders were charged high fees for using the port facilities at Batavia and had to pay heavy taxes on goods which they sold or bought.

They sent officials and soldiers to occupy new areas controlled by local rulers who had been independent, or free from Dutch rule. British ships and traders were shut out from these areas. The Dutch wanted to keep British trade to the ports of Penang and Bencoolen. But Raffles knew that with only these two ports, the British could never break the monopoly of the Dutch.

Adapted from http://library.thinkquest.org/10414/founding.html

Read Source A. What information can you obtain from Source A about Anglo-Dutch relations in the 18^th Century CE? Explain your answer.

Attempt this question and submit in written copy by 4 February 2009 to Mr Ang.

Chapter 2 Who was the founder of SIngapore?

2009-02-01T17:28:00.001-08:00

Here are some slides from Chapter 2 as covered during curriculum time.

Welcome 2CO 2SE 2PE 2GR 2PR to 2009 History

2009-02-01T17:24:00.000-08:00

Feel free to use the blog for reference to lesson notes and also for homework and assignments.

Secondary 2 History Chapter 10 Supplementary Notes

2008-09-16T05:58:00.001-07:00

PUBLIC HEALTH AND MEDICAL SERVICES

Medical services are used for treating diseases and benefit those who are sick
Public health services are for preventing diseases and benefit the general public including those who are sick and those who are not.

In the 19th Century, the government did not provide enough medical and public health facilities. Many people were dying of diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis (TB), beri-beri, diarrhoea and cholera. The government saw the need to improve the situation.

Health and medical services began in Singapore as early as the 19th Century under the British Colonial rule. The PAP government continues to make changes and improvements to the system.

Professor W J Simpson an expert from England did a Sanitary Report on Singapore and reported that most people were living in dark, overcrowded and poorly ventilated homes. There was no proper sanitation and toilets were dirty and unhygienic as the removal of night-soil was done by the bucket system. Moreover, there were many mosquito breeding places such as swamps and clogged drains. The government decided to make improvements to the situation.

As a result of the report, the Municipal Council (council in charge of town planning uHE nder the British rule in Singapore) spent large sums of money on improving public health:

The Municipal engineers built a network of underground sewage pipes to provide households with modern sanitation.
The town was provided with a better supply of clean piped water from reservoirs.
Incinerators were used to burn rubbish
The Singapore Improvement Trust cleared away slums.
Anti-mosquito measures were carried out.

In the 20th Century, the colonial government provided more medical services:

More hospitals were built - the third Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Middleton Hospital, a bigger General Hospital, the Kandang Kerbau Maternity Hospital and other hospitals.
More maternal and child health clinics were opened
The school health services were started.

Two private hospitals were built in the early years of this century:

Kwong Wai Shiu Hospital
St Andrew's Mission Hospital

A medical college was set up in 1905 to train local doctors.

Post-war medical developments:

The Singapore Anti-Tuberculosis Association (SATA) was formed to fight tuberculosis.
A number of hospitals were upgraded and turned into 'general hospitals'.
A number of clinics were turned into polyclinics.
A network of dental clinics was set up in schools.

The work of the Ministry of Environment:

It looks after public health services.
It controls hawkers to make sure they are clean.
It ensures that environmental health laws are obeyed by the public.

All these developments in medical services and environmental health services have helped to make Singapore a clean and healthy city.

Chapter 9 Merger and Separation Lesson PPT

2008-09-16T05:58:00.000-07:00

Chapter 9 Merger and Separation

. Reasons for a merger with Malaya

. Reasons for Separation

Do you agree that the merger is an union of convenience? Explain

Why Singapore wanted a Merger with Malaya

1a) Economic Reasons - Need for a hinterland

. Declining entrepot trade and growth of industrialisation

. Need for raw materials

. Increasing population & demand for jobs

1b) Economic Reasons – Need for a Common Market

. With Malaya’s independence 1957, tariffs imposed on goods with Singapore

. Merger can provide for a Common Market where goods can be bought and sold freely without taxes

. Increase trade, expand industries and create more jobs

2a) Political Reason – Desire for Independence

. British unwilling to grant Singapore independence

. Too small a country, not confident of Singapore’s economic survival

. Concerned about communist threat in Spore

. With merger, Malaya’s raw materials and economic development would ensure Spore economic vibrancy

. With merger, communist threat would be checked by Malayan government

Malaya’s Hesitation

. Upsetting the racial balance

. Pro-communist support by the Chinese

Change of Mind

. Turmoil within the PAP

. Split between the moderates and radicals

. Malaya worried split would enable radicals to capture power from PAP

Reasons for Separation

1a) Political Reasons – 1963 Elections in Spore

. UMNO, MCA & MIC formed Spore Alliance

. PAP rejected Tunku’s proposal

. Spore Alliance lost all 3 seats

. Signal that Spore Malays not for communal politics

. UMNO unhappy and vowed to reorganise Spore Alliance to challenge PAP

. Strained relationship

1b) Political Reasons - 1964 Federal Elections

. PAP sent 17 candidates for Federal Elections

. Upset the Alliance Party in KL

. Seen as challenge to its supremacy

. Relationship further strained over PAP’s criticism of MCA as poor representative of urban Chinese in Malaya

. Also unhappy over PAP declaration to help build a Malaysia not based on racial lines

. Both parties lost confidence in each other

2a) Social Reasons – PAP’s programmes

. PAP’s plans to redevelop Crawford, Kampong Glam & Rochor Areas

. UMNO started anti-PAP campaign through Utusan Melayu

. Strained relationships as these speeches increased tensions between the races in Spore

. Tensions escalated with more anti-PAP speeches and resulted in the 1964 Racial Riots

2b) Social Reasons – Malaysian Malaysia

. Spore Alliance announced major reorganisation for Spore state election in 1967

. In response, PAP started by Malaysian Solidarity Convention (formed by PAP to create united opposition to communal-based Alliance)

. all Malaysians, regardless of race, language or religion, to be given equal opportunities

. UMNO saw this as attack on Malay rights and privileges demanded arrest of Lee Kuan Yew

3a) Economic Reasons – Pioneer Certificates

. Spore felt that KL was reluctant to grant PC to new industries to Spore

. Only 2 out of 69 approved

. Spore would lack behind other states in economic growth

. KL wanted to spread new industries throughout Malaysia and not just Spore

3b) Economic Reasons – Common Market

. KL not keen to set up CM though agreed to do so

. Spore goods to Malaya continued to be taxed

. Investors not keen to set up factories in Spore

. Attractive financial packages to set up businesses in Malaya

. Spore felt that it defeats the purpose of having a merger as no CM was provided for

3c) Economic Reasons – Spore’s contributions

. KL demanded that Spore contribution of its revenue be raised from 40% to 60%

. This was to pay for the cost of dealing with the Indonesian Confrontation

. Spore refused as it would cripple its economy

. This strained relations as UMNO would not be able to introduce policies well if the various states refuse to its proposals

3d) Economic Reasons – Bank of China

. KL proposed closing of Bank of China in Singapore

. KL felt that funds were sent from bank to communists in northern Malaya

. Singapore was not for it as the bank played an important role in Singapore-China trade; Chinese goods were affordable for Singaporeans

History Test (15 April 2008) Corrections

2008-05-05T22:55:00.000-07:00

a) Study Source A. What information does Source A reveal about the British’s attitude towards Singapore in 1869? Explain your answer. [4m]

Level 1 Lift information from the source (1m)

Source A shows that the British did not do enough for the welfare of the people of Singapore and they did not care very much for the needs of the people.

Level 2 Uses information from source and make attempts to explain from evidence (2-3m)

Source A shows that the British did not do enough for the welfare of the people of Singapore and they did not care very much for the needs of the people. This implies that the British were only concerned about their own interests.

In addition, Source A shows that the British were unwilling to pass laws which were detrimental to the business community. This suggests that the British were merely concerned with profits and the well-being of their business and not the welfare of the people.

(2m for 1 point and 3m for 2 points)

Level 3 Makes inferences using evidence from source and provides logical explanations with reference to the key topic of the questions (3-4m)

Source A shows that the British did not do enough for the welfare of the people of Singapore and they did not care very much for the needs of the people. This seems to imply that the efforts of the British towards meeting the needs of the people were lacking and hence meant that they were probably indifferent in their attitude towards Singapore.

In addition, Source A shows that the British were unwilling to pass laws which were detrimental to the business community. This suggests that the British were only concerned about protecting their own interests of trading and making profits and thus meant that the British were very selfish in their attitude towards Singapore.

b) Study Source C. How useful is Source C in showing the problems faced by the British in maintaining law and order in Singapore in the 19th Century CE? Explain your answer. [5m]

Level 1 One sided answer. Useful or Not useful without explanations. (1m)
Level 1 Two Sided answers with NO explanations. (2m)

Source C is useful in showing the problems faced by the British in maintaining law and order. Source C shows that the British were not able to control the secret societies and that there was not enough policemen.

OR/AND

Source C is not useful in showing the problems faced by the British in maintaining law and order as it did not show the problems of piracy and the abuses of the coolie trade.

Level 2 One sided answer. Useful or Not useful with explanations. (3-4m)
Level 2 Two sided answer. Useful and not useful with some explanations (3-4m)

Source C is useful in showing the problems faced by the British in maintaining law and order. Source C shows that the British’s ignorance of the Chinese language and customs was a great handicap in dealing with the secret societies. This implies that the British cannot effectively control the spread of secret societies activities due to the language barrier. In addition, Source C also shows that there were no European officials who could speak Chinese for seven years though there was a need for them. This implies that the British was not responding to the needs of the people and hence led to problems in maintaining law and order.

Source C also shows that there was no proper police force with only 18 policemen for a population of 16,000 in 1831. This suggests that the British cannot effectively control and prevent crimes as the police force was inadequate to deal with such a huge population. Hence, Source C is useful in showing that the British were unable to maintain law and order as they lacked the social services needed to do so.

OR/AND

However, Source C has its limitations in giving a complete account of the problems faced by the British in maintaining law and order. While Source C has given some problems faced by the British namely the language barrier and the lack of social services like an adequate police force, it failed to show the other problems. For example, it did not provide information regarding the nature of the activities of the secret societies. These societies controlled the coolie trade which resulted in many abuses of the immigrants. In addition, these societies were also involved many of the social vices like opium and gambling dens and prostitution. Hence the language barrier between the British and the Chinese has resulted in more serious problems and not merely a case of unfamiliarity with local customs.

In addition, Source C only deals with the internal problems faced by the British. It did not provide any information regarding the threat of piracy which affected the livelihood of the people of early Singapore. The threat of piracy caused fear and disrupted trade which in turn affected the economic growth of the settlement. This resulted in common people losing their livelihood who resorted to stealing and robbery to make ends meet. Hence the problem of piracy caused the British much difficulty in maintaining law and order.

Level 3 Two sided answer showing both strengths and limitations with good explanations. (5-6m)

Both of Level 2 answers

c) Study Sources A and B. How different are they in showing the weaknesses of the British Colonial Government in 1869? Explain your answer. [6m]

Level 1 Shows only similarities OR differences unexplained (1m)

Sources A and B are different as Source A is more detailed than Source B.

OR

Source A and B are similar as both show that the British government were mainly made up of British officials and hence bias.

Level 2 Shows both sides unexplained (2m)

Both of Level 1 answer.

Level 3 Shows only similarities OR differences explained (3-4m)
(3m for 1 point and 4m for 2 points)

Sources A and B are different in showing the weaknesses of the British Government. Source A shows that the senior officials in the Executive and Legislative Councils did not care very much for the needs of the people while Source B merely shows that the councils were made up of British officials and did not provide any information about their attitude towards the people. Source A thus more specific in providing information about the weakness of the British Government while Source B is factual, merely providing information about the structure of the government.

In addition, Sources A shows that the officials in the Legislative Council were not willing to pass laws to make the rich pay more taxes while Source B merely shows that the Legislative Council had the power to make laws. While Source A is more detailed and explanatory as it suggests that the British were not willing spend money on the people at the expense of their profits thus exposing their weakness as a government. However Source B is more factual as it merely provided information regarding the make-up of the Legislative Council and its function but failed to provide any explanations about the weakness of the government.

OR

Sources A and B are also similar to a certain extent. Source A shows that the Colonial Government did not do enough for the welfare of the people. This suggests that they were indifferent to the needs of the community. Similarly, Source C shows that the Colonial Government was made up of mainly British officials and Asian traders. This implies that the officials and even the Asian traders might have been more concerned with their own trading interests than the good of the people.
In addition, Source A shows that the government was not willing to pass laws to tax the rich more. This suggests that they were more concerned about profits than the people’s welfare. Similarly, Source C shows that the Legislative Council has the power to pass laws and since they were made up of mainly traders, it implies that they were also more concerned about profits rather than the needs of the common people.

Level 3 Shows both similarities and differences with attempts to explain (3-4m)

(3m for 1 point both sides and 4m for 2 points both sides)

Level 4 Shows both similarities and differences with good explanations of comparison of contents of the source (5-6m)

Both of Level 3 answers.
(5m for 1 point for both sides and 6m for 2 points for both sides)

Structured Essay Question (10 marks)

2. This question is about the British administration of Singapore in the 19th Century CE.

a) Describe how the locals of Singapore in the 19th Century CE were involved in the government. [2m]

The locals of Singapore in the Government were mainly traders and merchants who were selected to speak on behalf of the people
They served as non-official members of the Legislative Council whose primary function was to make new laws for the colony

b) Describe the success of Eunos Abdullah and failure of Dr Lim Boon Keng in the implementation of laws for Singapore in the 19th Century CE. [2m]

Eunos Abdullah persuaded the British Government to improve the living conditions of the Malays and as such, a large piece of land was set aside for a Malay settlement known as Kampong Melayu.
This settlement provided a large number of Malays with cheap housing as well as land to grow vegetables and rear poultry.
However, Dr Lim Boon Keng’s request to ban opium was not successful. He spoke about the evils of opium and wanted the British government to ban opium.
The British government was not willing to ban opium as that was a great source of revenue for the government and banning opium would meant a loss of revenue.

c) To what extent was the British Government successful in improving the welfare of the people in Singapore in the 19th Century CE? Explain your answer in detail. [6m]

Level 1 Listing British Government’s measures to improve social services (1-2 marks)

The British Government improved the Police Force, set up Chinese Protectorate, schools and hospitals.

Level 2 Explain measures with reference to success of improving welfare of the people (3-4 marks)

The British government was successful in improving the welfare of the people in early Singapore. Due to the problems created by the Chinese secret societies, the people lived in fear and anxiety. To solve the problem, the British government improved the police force by giving its officers proper training and better pay. It also employed capable officials who could speak the local dialects so that they could resolve conflicts among the locals easily. Hence law and order improved and the people could go about their livelihood without much worry about their safety.

In addition, the British government also stepped up its efforts to provide for social services like education and health. Schools were set up to provide education for locals so that they could fill up posts in the government offices and trading companies. This provided the people with a means of living and hence their welfare improved. Health care was also given to the people when the government set up the Public Health Department. This measure was taken to prevent the spread of infectious diseases which would greatly affect the economic prosperity of Singapore. As such, the people’s welfare improved.

Level 3 Explain measures with reference to success and limitations of the efforts by the British Government (5-6 marks)

Level 2 answer plus:

While the British government did improve the social services for the people, much was done in order to meet their own objectives. In the area of law and order, the British Government improved the police force and set up the Chinese Protectorate to see to the problems created by the Chinese community. However, this was done mainly because the British felt that the problems created the Chinese were detrimental to the economic health of the settlement. They did so probably to ensure that their trading interests was protected and not disrupted by these problems.

In addition, the structure of the British Government was made up primarily of British officials. There were very few Asian representatives in the Legislative Council and as such it was very difficult for these Asian to effectively bring about improvements to the masses. Also, it was not until 1924 that the number of non-official members was increased and equaled to the official members of the council. This suggests that the British Government was not really concerned about improving the welfare of the people but more to safeguard their own trading interests.
More importantly, the British were seen to be the Colonial masters. In the government service, Asians who were more qualified were not given the opportunities to hold senior positions and were also paid lower than their British counterparts. Social discrimination was also practiced where Asians were discouraged from traveling in first-class carriages and they were not allowed to use the dance floor or bar reserved solely for the Europeans. These discriminatory practices did not augur well with the locals and thus the rift between masters and ‘servants’ grew wider.

Hence, the British may be successful in improving certain aspects of the welfare of the people through its measures but they were not very successful in raising the level of happiness and loyalty of the people. This would affect the welfare of the people as they felt that they were being discriminated against.

Answers to Class Work 2CO and 2PE

2008-04-09T18:22:00.000-07:00

2) Compare sources B and C. How different are the sources on their account of Chinese SS as lawless and fearful? Explain your answer (6m)

Source B and C are different in showing the lawlessness of the SS. Source B shows that the main danger of the SS came from gang robberies. This implies that the people would have been gravely affected. This meant that SS would have disrupted peace and social stability. However Source C shows that the SS were involved in frequent gang fights which would have threatened peace but might not have affected the general public.

However, Sources B and C are also similar in some ways in showing lawlessness. Source B shows that SS raided the town every night. This implies that the people would have lived in fear. Similarly, Source C shows that SS paralyzed Singapore which suggests that the people would have lived in a state of lawlessness and fear.

3) Explain the two measures adopted by the British govt to handle lawlessness in the Chinese community. (5m)

The British Government adopted several measures to deal with lawlessness. The Chinese community was made up of many members who were also involved in Secret Societies. These members were involved in the coolie trade which saw many form of abuses. For example, the coolies were tricked into coming to work here and they suffered poor conditions onboard the ships. In addition, they were also ill-treated by working long hours and given little food. This lack of governance created a sense of insecurity amongst the early migrants.

To deal with this problem the British govt set up the Chinese Protectorate to look into these abuses. William Pickering was appointed as the First Protector as he was able to communicate with the Chinese and thus would be able to act on the complaints of the coolies. This protectorate would also rescue coolies who were cheated to come here to work. Hence with this measure, the British government was able to look into the abuses of the coolie trade. With this sense of security, more coolies would be encouraged to come to work in Singapore.

In addition, the Chinese were also involved in many illegal activites like the operations of gambling dens, opium dens and brothels. The secret societies members were also involved in lawless activities like gang robberies and gang fights. This made the people fearful for their lives and created social instability and disrupted peace in society.

To deal with these illegal activities, the British Government set up the Criminal Investigation Branch to deal with the Secret Societies. The police force was improved by recruiting more policemen and more Chinese into the force. The salaries of these policemen were raised and working hours improved. In addition, they were also given training especially in dialects to enable them to understand the nature of the Secret Societies. With this, the widespread power of the secret societies decreased and there was improved law and order.

Chapter 4 Powerpoint Notes

2008-03-26T06:06:00.000-07:00

Please refer to 18 March 2007 post for the powerpoint notes on Chapter 4.

Test Corrections 4 March 2008

2008-03-18T02:06:00.000-07:00

Suggested Answers for Test Questions 4 March 2008

1) Study Source A. What can you learn about the immigrants who came to Singapore?

L1-lifts information from source (1m)

Source A shows that the immigrants who came to Singapore were bold and adventurous and had wisdom and courage to build this country.

L2- Uses information from source and make attempts to explain from evidence (2-3m)

Source A shows that Singapore did not grow from a sleepy village into a successful country by chance. This implies that the early immigrants played a crucial role in contributing to this growth.

Source A also shows that our ancestors were bold and adventurous. This suggests that they were willing to take risks and had the courage to face challenges.

L3- Makes inferences using evidence from source and provides logical explanations with reference to the key topic of the questions (3-4m)

Source A shows that Singapore’s growth as a successful country is not by chance and being strategic alone. This implies that there might have been other factors like our forefathers/early immigrants who have contributed to its success. This meant that these immigrants probably possessed certain characteristics, like resilience and perseverance, which contributed to the growth of the country.

In addition, the source shows that our ancestors were bold, adventurous and had the wisdom and courage to build the country. This suggests that the early immigrants contributed greatly to the growth of Singapore through their sound qualities which enabled them to endure the hardships faced in starting the settlement.

2) Study Source B. What can you learn about their characteristics & how that contributed to early Singapore?

L1-lifts information from source (1m)

Source B shows that the early immigrants were humble and that their hard work, sweat and suffering contributed to early Singapore.

L2- Uses information from source and make attempts to explain from evidence (2-3m)

Source B shows that the early immigrants were ordinary humble folk. This suggests that they would have been willing to do necessary manual tasks like clearing the forest.

Source B also shows that Singapore has no natural resources and its growth is due to the hard work and sacrifices of the early immigrant. This implies that the immigrants possessed sound characteristics which enabled Singapore to have a better life today.

L3- Makes inferences using evidence from source and provides logical explanations with reference to the key topic of the questions (3-4m)

Source B shows that the early immigrants were ordinary humble folk. This suggests that they would have been willing to do necessary manual tasks like clearing the forest. This meant that they possessed characteristics like adaptability which enabled the early immigrants to take on jobs that was beneath them.

In addition, Source B shows that Singapore has no natural resources and its growth is due to the hard work and sacrifices of the early immigrants. This implies that they probably would have left their families back home and put in great effort to earn money to be sent back to their homeland. This meant that they possessed sound qualities like perseverance and endurance which enabled them to face the hardship and challenges of a new environment.

L4- Same as L3 and provide specific reference to contributions (5m)

These sound characteristics of the early immigrants served to provide early Singapore with a diligent and strong workforce which helped build up the infrastructure of the country and also provided the backbone for the smooth conduct of trade.

3) Study Source C. How useful is this source in helping you to understand the population of early Singapore?

Level 1 One sided answer. Useful or Not useful without explanations. (1m)
Level 1 Two Sided answers with NO explanations. (2m)

Source C is useful in providing a picture of the population of early Singapore by showing us the breakdown of the various races.

OR/AND

Source C is not useful in giving us a detailed picture of the population of early Singapore as it merely provided the breakdown of the races but did not mentioned the economic implications the population might have.

Level 2 One sided answer. Useful or Not useful with explanations. (3-4m)
Level 2 Two sided answer. Useful and not useful with some explanations (3-4m)

Source C is useful in providing an account of the population of early Singapore. It shows a breakdown of the various races namely the Chinese, Malay, Indian and others. This implies that the workforce of early Singapore is determined by the proximity of the countries where the immigrants come from.

In addition, Source C is useful in showing us the composition of the different ethnic groups where the Chinese formed the main group of immigrants through the years mentioned. This suggests that there might have been good communications with China which attracted the Chinese to come to seek better lives.

Source C also shows the growth of the population from 1824 to 1891. This implies that Singapore’s population has grown many times during that period and meant that there might have been a very stable workforce which helped the early settlement to grow.

OR/AND

Source C has its limitations. Source C gives us a breakdown of the different ethnic groups who came during the period. However, it failed to provide us with information regarding the occupations of these races and how these would contribute to the early development of the country.

In addition, Source C did not give clear indication as to the gender of the different ethnic groups and hence it is difficult to ascertain if the growth in population is due to the birth rate or to the immigration of more people.

Source C is also limited in giving us an account of the age group of the different races. The chart merely shows us the number of people of each races but did not provide any information regarding the age of these people. Knowing the age group would provide us with details regarding the economic and social implications to society.

Level 3 Two sided answer showing both strengths and limitations with good explanations. (5-6m)

Reading for Chapter 4

2008-03-12T18:14:00.000-07:00

2CO and 2PE, please read Chapter 4 in preparation for lessons at the start of Term 2.

You may also wish to read these articles from the following websites:

http://www.sgwiki.com/wiki/History_of_Singapore

http://library.thinkquest.org/12405/index.html

Enjoy the rest of the holidays.

Suggest Answer for Homework (Utility Question)

2008-03-02T16:58:00.000-08:00

Level 1 One sided answer. Useful or Not useful without explanations. (1m)
Level 1 Two Sided answers with NO explanations. (2m)

Source B is useful in showing the reasons why the immigrants came to Singapore as there was drought and jobs were scarce.

OR / AND

Source B is not useful as they only show droughts and jobs scarcity.

Level 2 One sided answer. Useful or Not useful with explanations. (3-4m)
Level 2 Two sided answer. Useful and not useful with some explanations (3-4m)

Source B is useful in showing the reasons for the coming of the immigrants to Singapore. The source shows that drought in India caused destruction to crops. This suggests that there was probably a shortage of food. This meant that people would probably be forced to look for other ways to sustain their livelihood.

In addition Source B is also useful as it shows that there was a scarcity of jobs. This implies that the people would not have any means to earn money. This meant that the people would not be able to buy food as they have no jobs and thus were forced to leave India to come to Singapore for a better life.

Source B also shows that jobs were plentiful in Singapore as labourers were needed the moment a coolie landed in Singapore. This suggests that people were able to find jobs and earn a living. Hence Source B is useful in showing both push and pull factors resulting in the coming of the immigrants.

OR / AND

Source B is not useful in giving a detailed account of why the immigrants come to Singapore. Source B shows that drought destroyed crops in a village in Madras. However, the source did not provide enough information to determine if other natural disasters like floods were present to cause misery to the people forcing them to leave their countries.

In addition, the source provides only information about an Indian immigrant. It is not useful as there were also other immigrants like the Malays, Chinese and Europeans who came to Singapore in the early years. Hence the source is not useful in giving enough information as the Chinese were forced out of their country due to many other factors like overpopulation and the Malays came to Singapore to escape from wars back home.

More importantly Source B is not useful in showing the pull factors which attracted the early immigrants to Singapore. The source shows that jobs were plentiful in early Singapore but did not mentioned other factors like the free port and free trade status which attracted many traders to come. It also did not show that due to the British protection, many immigrants felt safe to work here in Singapore.

(3m for 2 points and 4m for 3 points)

Level 3 Two sided answer showing both strengths and limitations with good explanations.
(5-6m)

Both answers of Level 2.

(5m for 2 points both sides and 6m for 3 points both sides)

SCGS Sec 2 Adventure Camp 2008

2008-03-01T07:01:00.000-08:00

2 COURAGE Adventure Camp 2008

2008-02-29T20:42:00.000-08:00

Source Based Question - Utitlity

2008-02-20T20:16:00.000-08:00

Source B

Chinese Coolies loading and unloading coal

2) Study Source B. How useful is Source B in showing the contributions of the early immigrants in Singapore? Explain your answer. (5m)

Suggested Answer as discussed in class:

Steps required for answering Utility questions

1) Identify key topic in question – contributions and immigrants
2) Identify key phrases in source – Chinese coolies, carrying coal, providing services, labourers, labour force, ensure smooth running of trade, help economy to prosper
3) Identify key contents not found in source but related to question
Contributions – traders, businessmen, hawkers, letter-writers, middlemen, rickshaw pullers etc etc etc
Immigrants – Malays, Indians, Europeans, Minorities – Armenians, Arabs, Bugis etc
4) You MUST include the word USEFUL in such a question. You MUST also include the word LIMITATIONS in such a question.

Suggested Answer:

Source B is useful in showing the contributions of the early immigrants (introductory statement). It shows Chinese coolies loading and unloading coal (evidence). This suggests that the Chinese were providing essential services like labour (conclusion) which ensured the smooth running of trade and hence contributing to the prosperity of the economy. (explanation)

However, Source B has its limitations. (introductory statement). Source B only provided one aspect of contributions which is trade but the contributions of the Chinese far exceeded that of being a labourer. For example, the Chinese also contributed to the economy by being middlemen who acted as go-between for the Europeans and the Asians. They were also engaged in occupations like hawkers, rickshaw pullers and letter writers who provided basic services to the masses. (examples with explanations)

In addition, the source is also limited in showing a complete picture of the immigrants who came to Singapore (intro statement). The source did not mention other groups of immigrants like the Malays, Indians and Europeans. They contributed in terms of providing labour and vital services like transport and banking. These contributions helped Singapore to prosper.

Chapter 3 Utility Practice Question

2008-02-20T16:57:00.000-08:00

Source B
An account of an Indian immigrant.

After the drought wiped out his crops, Mr Veerasamy Sivalingam, 24, was forced to leave his village near Madras (present-day Chennai) to find a job in the city. But the jobs were scarce so he decided to come to Singapore in 1822. According to Mr Veerasamy, “The moment I landed, I heard some men calling for labourers. Two sahibs* wanted to move a hill and dump it in a river. They offered us a rupee a day. Back in Madras, I dig the earth every day but still my belly remains empty. Here, I do the same but will never go hungry.”

* sahibs- Arabic term for gentleman

Adapted from ‘Journey through 1000 years of Asia’s History’ by the Straits Times, 2000

a) How useful is the source in explaining the reasons why immigrants came to Singapore? Explain your answer. [6m]

Remember the steps that we discussed in class!

Test Correction Test 1 29 January 2008

2008-02-18T05:34:00.000-08:00

Source A
Archaeological finds in Fort Canning

At the Fort Canning Park site, more than 30,000 pieces of artifacts have been unearthed to date, hinting at the existence of a fortified city in the vicinity some 500 years before the arrival of the British. Thousands of glass artifacts, together with iron tools, further point to the likelihood of early Singaporeans being technologically inclined while the discovery of a carbon layer with fire-blackened and cracked stones suggests that fire was used in some kind of industrial activity, possibly in a craftsmen’s workshop on Fort Canning Hill.

The digs have also yielded a wide variety of objects which strengthen the belief that ancient Singapore was a trading hub connected to China, South Asia and other parts of Southeast Asia. Items ranging from a compass, wine cups and ceramic pillows to coins from China and Sri Lanka have been found so far. A blue and white stemcup for wine, of a type used mainly by the Chinese elite, turned up at the Fort Canning Park site.

Adapted from http://www.nus.edu.sg/corporate/research/gallery/research17.htm

1. Read Source A. What information does Source A reveal about the life of early Singapore? Explain your answer. (4m)

Level 1 Lift information from the source (1m)

Source A shows that people in early Singapore used tools and objects like porcelain pillows, wine cups and compass.

Level 2 Uses information from source and make attempts to explain from evidence (2-3m)

Source A shows that the people of early Singapore used objects like iron tools. This suggests that the people could have been technologically advanced as they have the means to produce such objects.

In addition, Source A also shows that the people used objects like compass and Chinese wine cups. This implies that the people could have been engaged in trade and traded with the Chinese.

(2m for 1 point and 3m for 2 points)

Level 3 Makes inferences using evidence from source and provides logical explanations with reference to the key topic of the questions (3-4m)

Source A shows that 30,000 artifacts including glass objects and iron tools were excavated in Fort Canning. This suggests that life in early Singapore could have been very vibrant as the people seemed to be technologically and social advance to utilize such objects for daily usage.

In addition, Source A also shows that objects like compass and Chinese wine cups were found at the Fort Canning site. This implies that people could have involved in trading activities with the Chinese and thus life would have been prosperous as the society would probably be thriving with the exchange of foreign products.

(3m for 1 point and 4m for 2 points)

Source B
The Dutch trading activities in the East Indies in the 18th Century CE

With a huge fleet of warships and a strong army, the Dutch were enforcing stricter rules about trade. They did not allow the British to trade freely in the Archipelago. British ships were not allowed to trade with any of the Dutch-controlled ports except Batavia (modern day Jakarta). The British traders were charged high fees for using the port facilities at Batavia and had to pay heavy taxes on goods which they sold or bought.

They sent officials and soldiers to occupy new areas controlled by local rulers who had been independent, or free from Dutch rule. British ships and traders were shut out from these areas. The Dutch wanted to keep British trade to the ports of Penang and Bencoolen. But Raffles knew that with only these two ports, the British could never break the monopoly of the Dutch.

Adapted from http://library.thinkquest.org/10414/founding.html

2. Read Source B. What information can you obtain from Source B about Anglo-Dutch relations in the 18th Century CE? Explain your answer.

Level 1 Lift information from the source (1m)

Source A shows that the Dutch were enforcing stricter rules on trade and did not allow the British to trade freely in the Malay Archipelago.

Level 2 Uses information from source and make attempts to explain from evidence (2-3m)

Source A shows that the Dutch were enforcing strict rules about trade by imposing taxes and restricting the British traders to Batavia. This suggests that the Dutch were very aggressive and was trying to enforce a trade monopoly.

In addition Source A also shows that the Dutch was trying to restrict the British trade to Penang and Bencoolen. This implies that the British were not able to compete effectively with the Dutch.

(2m for 1 point and 3m for 2 points)

Level 3 Makes inferences using evidence from source and provides logical explanations with reference to the key topic of the questions (3-4m)

Source A shows that the Dutch were enforcing strict rules about trade through the use of warships and force. They also did not allow the British to trade freely in the Malay Archipelago. This suggests that the Dutch were very aggressive in trade in this area and thus probably caused the British much anxiety. This might have resulted in strained Anglo Dutch relations between the two powers.

In addition, Source A also shows that the Dutch were enforcing a trade monopoly by shutting out the British traders and restricting them to Penang and Bencoolen. This implies that the British would not have any ports to trade with in this region except for Penang and Bencoolen. This might have resulted in the British being threatened by the aggressiveness of the Dutch which led to the deterioration of Anglo-Dutch relations.

(3m for 1 point and 4m for 2 points)

Short Answer Question

2. Elaborate on the weaknesses of Penang and Bencoolen in serving British interest in the Malay Archipelago in the 18th Century CE. (4m)

Level 1 Stating that the two ports were unsuitable because of location (1-2m)

Penang was unsuitable because it was located too far north from the main trading areas of the Malay Archipelago.
Bencoolen was unsuitable because it was located on the wrong side of Sumatra facing the Indian Ocean.

(1m for 1 point and 2m for 2 points)

Level 2 Explaining the ports poor location in relation to the main trading areas of the Malay Archipelago (2-3m)

Penang was unsuitable because it was located too far north from the main trading areas. As such it was unable to attract the trade of the main trading areas as traders were unwilling to make the long trip there. In addition, Penang was not in a good position to protect British shipping along the Straits of Melaka.

Bencoolen was unsuitable because it was located on the wrong side of Sumatra facing the Indian Ocean. It was not in an ideal position to protect British shipping along the Straits of Melaka. In addition, it was unable to effectively monitor Dutch activities in the main trading areas.

(2m for 1 point and 3m for 2 points)

Level 3 Expect Level 2 answer plus explaining the importance of the British interest in the India-China trade (4m)

Level 2 answer plus

Due to the poor locations of Penang and Bencoolen, they were thus unable to protect British shipping along the India-China trade route and hence unable to safeguard British interest in the China trade. This meant that the British interest in the lucrative India-China trade was vulnerable to Dutch harassment and restrictions and in danger of being disrupted.

2007 Test Question for Revision

2008-01-23T16:55:00.000-08:00

1) What information does Source A reveal about the Dutch trading activities in the Malay Archipelago in the 19th Century CE? Explain your answer. (Inferring Skills) (4m)

This is taken from last year test paper. Do it for revision for the upcoming test!

Chapter 2 Homework 21 January 2008

2008-01-20T20:54:00.000-08:00

Source Based Question

Study Source A. What does Source A reveal about the Dutch activities in the Malay Archipelago in the 18 Century CE? Explain your answer. (4m)

Source A

Practice Question: Post War Problems in Singapore

2007-07-29T06:38:00.000-07:00

Practice Question:

To what extent was the British Military Administration successful in solving the post-war problems faced by Singapore? Explain your answer.

Tips:

1) This question tests your understanding of the topic which is about the British administration of Singapore right after the war.

2) A "to what extent" or "how far" question requires you to give a balance argument.

3) Refer to key word in question which is "successful". This word is subjective which means it is opened to discussion and debate. To some, the British was very successful in solving the post-war problems. Yet to others they were least successful.

4) So your answer should deal with a balance view, to be able to give an account of what success did the British achieve and also whether they did indeed solve all problems.

Suggested Answer:

Begin with a short introduction to the jubilation of people upon the return of the British as administrator of Singapore. Peace restored. But post-war Singapore faced many social and economic problems.

British efforts in dealing with social and economic problems:

1) Many left homeless. Many houses destroyed during the world. Rents rose rapidly. British passed laws to curb indiscriminate increase in rents.

2) Shortage of food and starvation. Loss of trade and destruction of farmlands during war. Not enough food. Problem worsened by increase in population. British brought in food from neighbouring countries and introduced food rationing.

3) Trade disrupted as infrastructure of country destroyed. Harbour choked with sunken warships and debris. British administration cleared the harbour and repaired the wharf. Also rebuilt many warehouses. Also reinstalled power lines and water pipes.

4) Widespread unemployment. Many lost their jobs during the war. During Jap occupation, many jobless. British administration set up the labour exchange in Havelock road to match the people's skills to the jobs.

The British did solve many pressing issues and problems. They managed to alleviate the initiate sufferings of the people. However, these problems required long term planning and solutions and as such many problems still remained despite the efforts of the British.

For example:

Due to rapid rise in population, the problems of housing still remained. Many housing facilities provided by the British were spartan and posed great hygiene problem to the people. In turn, this became a health threat to the people. Medical facilities were also lacking in terms of furniture and equipment and trained staff. The British lacked the energy and reserves to cater to these needs.

Unemployment continued to be on the high end as trade resumed on a very slow pace due to the lack of proper infrastructure after the war. This in turn resulted in lack of basic necessities like food and raw materials which caused the problem to escalate and which reflected that the British were not so successful in bringing life back to normalcy.

Most importantly, the British were unable to resolve the attitude of the people. During the war, it was clear that the British were incompetent as rulers. After having ruled Singapore for more than hundred years, they were looked upon to defend Singapore from aggressors. However, their defeat by the Japanese was a clear sign that the colonial masters were not all that powerful and effective. Hence, it was clear to the people that no one, the British nor the Japanese, should rule Singapore except themselves. This feelings of nationalism posed a problem to the British as they no longer cooperate willingly with the British.

Conclusion:

Hence to a large extent the British were only successful in providing initial aid to the problems. But they were not successful in giving long term solutions to the social and economic problems. More importanly, they were definitely not successful in changing the mindset of the people who no longer respected them the way it was before the war.

Source Based Question - For Practice and Revision

2007-07-11T17:43:00.000-07:00

Source A

Causes of World War 2

I believe that Hitler was one of the greatest causes of World War 2. Although there are many other reasons, he was definitely one of them. Another reason was the Treaty of Versailles. This was the treaty that was signed at the end of World War 1. This treaty outlined the rules that Germany must follow because of their defeat by Britain and France. Many Germans were angered by the treaty, for most of the rules in the treaty were unfair and Germany lost a great amount of wealth.

Adapted from http://www.echeat.com/essay.php?t=32745 Adolf Hitler and World War 2

Study Source A. How far do you agree that Hitler was one of the greatest causes of World War 2? Explain your answer.

Suggested answer:

a) Begin with an inference of the source. Use evidence from source to show the causes of World War 2.

b) Use contextual knowledge to show causes of World War 2. For causes mentioned in source, use contextual knowledge to expand on the points. For causes not mentioned in source, use contextual knowledge to provide the points.

c) Make a judgement. Is Hitler the main cause? What do you think?

If you think that he is the main cause, then your answer should focus about his ROLE in bringing about the war. You should also provide other reasons to show that there are other reasons but all not as important as Hitler.

If you think that he is NOT the main cause, then your answer should focus on the OTHER reasons that brought about the war. You should also provide the role of Hitler but main focus should be on the other causes for example the failure of the Treaty of versailles.

d) Conclude your answer by a brief summary of your points and a reiteration of the main cause as explained by you.

Do attempt the question. Send to me by email. I will help you look through it.

Sunset view from my place

2007-06-30T04:37:00.001-07:00

Source Based Question for Practice

2007-06-27T15:42:00.000-07:00

Source A

Causes of World War 2

I believe that Hitler was one of the greatest causes of World War 2. Although there are many other reasons, he was definitely one of them. Another reason was the Treaty of Versailles. This was the treaty that was signed at the end of World War 1. This treaty outlined the rules that Germany must follow because of their defeat by Britain and France. Many Germans were angered by the treaty, for most of the rules in the treaty were unfair and Germany lost a great amount of wealth.

Adapted from http://www.echeat.com/essay.php?t=32745 Adolf Hitler and World War 2

Study Source A. How far do you agree that Hitler was one of the greatest causes of World War 2? Explain your answer.

Making Judgement (how far……)

When a question requires you to give your opinion or judgement about an issue or an assertion, you are making a judgement.
Making judgement will require you to decide if the assertion is true.
You need background information to the issue.
You need to find evidence from what you have learned.
Contextual knowledge to other reference materials is a must.
However, it is not enough just to agree or disagree with the assertion.
You are required to look at both sides of the issue.
Give a balance argument and conclude with a judgement.

Sec 2PR: attempt the question and bring it during lesson on Wednesday 4 July

Tagboard

2007-06-26T08:07:00.001-07:00

The Tagboard is set up with the sole purpose of helping pupils with genuine questions pertaining to History. Since I am going to be away, the tagboard will be useful to ask questions. And that is the reason why i spent some time setting it up.

HOWEVER, IF I GET MEANINGLESS POSTS, I WILL REMOVE THE TAGBOARD.

History Test 21 May 2007 Corrections

2007-06-26T04:31:00.000-07:00

Kindly refer to your test papers for the sources.

1) Source Based Questions

1a. Read Source A. What information does Source A reveal about the economic conditions of Singapore in the 1930s? Explain your answer. (4m) (Inferring skills)

Level 1 Lift information from the source (1m)

Level 2 Uses information from source and make attempts to explain from evidence (2-3m)

Level 3 Makes inferences using evidence from source and provides logical explanations with reference to the key topic of the questions (3-4m)

Source A shows that there was rising unemployment. This suggests that jobs were hard to come by. This meant that the economic conditions in Singapore must have been very bad as people were finding it very difficult to get jobs.

In addition, Source A also shows that the number of immigrants have fallen from 242,000 in 1930 to 28,000 in 1933. This implies that the demand for workers have decreased drastically. This meant that the entrepot trade of Singapore must have slowed down tremendously as without the volume of goods coming in, coolies were not needed to help in loading and unloading. Hence, with less trade, Singapore must have been losing revenue and profits.

(3m for 1 point and 4m for 2 points)

1b. Study Source B. Is the source reliable as evidence to show that Singapore’s trade was greatly affected by the Great Depression? Explain your answer. (5m)

Level 1 Lifting information from source with no explanations (1m)

Level 2 Make attempts to make a judgement based on evidence and inferences (2-3m)

Level 3 Make judgement with good inference and with reference to purpose of source and contextual knowledge (4-5)

Source B is reliable in showing that Singapore’s trade was greatly affected by the Great Depression. From the source, between 1923 and 1933, trade earnings fell from $975.7 million to $512.8 million. This implies that there was a drastic decrease in trade transactions. This meant that there was less business in Singapore during this period. (inference)

Source B is reliable as evidence to show that Singapore’s trade was badly affected by the Great Depression. The source presents to us statistics and data about the profits earned through trade in early Singapore. Hence, the author has presented us with mostly unbiased information which suggests that he was merely presenting us with the actual earnings made by Singapore through trade. This meant that the source is reliable in giving us a true account of how badly Singapore’s trade has fallen between 1923 and 1933. (shows purpose)

Based on contextual knowledge, during this period, the Great Depression caused widespread unemployment and affected Singapore’ trade. Due to low demand for goods and raw materials from the east, Singapore’s entrepot trade was affected. This in turn affected many traders and businessmen as their revenue and profits depended on the import and export of goods. As a result, the total earnings from trade declined drastically. (situation)

In conclusion, based on the evidence in the source, Singapore’s trade was indeed affected by the Great Depression. The actual situation and the evidence in the source corroborate and thus, this source is reliable as evidence to show that the Great Depression affected trade.

Award 4m if answer does not include an elaboration of the actual situation to justify the reliability of source.

2) Structured Essay Question

Elaborate how the invention of steamships and the opening of the Suez Canal helped Singapore prosper in the 1800s. (6m)

Level 1 State facts relating to steamships and Suez Canal (1m)

Level 2 Explain the invention of steamships and/or Opening of Suez Canal (2-3m)

Level 3 Explain the invention of steamships and/or Opening of Suez Canal with reference to Singapore. (4-5m)

Level 4 Explain the complimentary role played by both events and how this role contributed to Singapore’s prosperity. (6m)

The invention of steamships and the opening of the Suez Canal contributed greatly to the prosperity of Singapore. The invention of the steamships brought about great improvements in sea communications. Traders need not depend on the wind conditions in order to set sail. As a result, traders could travel at any point in the year to trade. This meant that traders could trade more by going to more places independent of wind conditions. With this, more traders were able to visit Singapore to trade and traders obtained their goods faster. This improved efficiency in trading enhanced the status of Singapore as an entrepot port where traders made their profits by importing goods and re-exporting them.

In addition, the opening of the Suez Canal reduced the distance travelled between the east and the west. By way of the Cape route, the distance between London and Singapore is 19000km. Traders travelled a shorter journey by way of the Suez route which is about 12500km. This reduction in distance resulted in improved communications and time saved in travelling. With this, traders in Singapore were able to receive their goods in a shorter time which resulted in more trading transactions. Traders were thus able to make more profits and that attracted more traders to Singapore.

Traders using the Suez Canal realised that the wind conditions were not favourable as the winds only blew in a north-southerly directions. Hence, with the opening of the Suez Canal, traders now saw the need to use steamships rather than sailing vessels. Hence traders using steamships via the Suez Canal further reduced the distance between London and Singapore to just 50 days.

In addition, the Suez route linked the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea. Traders using this route would normally skirt the coast of India and travelled to China via the Straits of Melaka. This resulted in more traders stopping over at Singapore which acted as a port of call for rest and replenishment. With the advent of more steamships, Singapore became popular as a coal-refuelling station. This resulted in an increase of steamships visiting Singapore and more harbour facilities were needed. Jobs were thus created where more coolies were needed to help load and unload goods and where labourers were needed to expand the wharf and build more warehouses. Singapore thus benefited from the increased volume of trade. More jobs opportunities were created and Singapore’s prosperity grew.

FARE-THEE-WELL

2007-05-22T06:40:00.000-07:00

Dear 2GEEWHY

I am very touched by your gesture of writing short notes to me and compiling them into an album. It is with a heavy heart that I leave behind a class of wonderful pupils. (Rest assured this source is ABSOLUTELY reliable) Truly, 2GY of 2007 has found its way into my hall of fame and can be acclaimed as one of the best class I ever had. (Source is again VERY reliable)

Here are flowers for all of you, taken on Open House. Go to Computer Lab 2. Look down from 2nd Floor and you will see these flowers.

Do email me at ang_wee_boon@moe.edu.sg and keep in touch!

So adieu and I'LL BE BACK!!!

Source Based Question (Reliability) Chapter 5 Pg 89

2007-05-19T00:47:00.000-07:00

Source A : Page 89

The world is passing through the worst economic recession in history. This Government has been so badly hit that 11 of my colleagues have been prematurely retired. My salary, as District Judge, is $1000 per month and I felt it my duty to the Treasury to take this opportunity to ensure that they would be in a position to pay my salary for one more month.

Adapted from Eastern Cadet's Anecdotage by Andrew Gilmour

Read Source A. Is Source A reliable as evidence to show that Singapore was badly hit during the Great Depression? Explain your answer. (5m)

Source A shows that Singapore was going through the worst economic recession. This suggests that Singapore was going through very bad times. This meant that there might have been many who lost their jobs. In addition, Source A also shows that 11 judges have been prematurely retired. This implies that the Government has to resort to retrenching its officials. This meant that the Government has probably suffered losses and has not enough revenue to hire officials. (step 2 Inferring)

Source A is reliable in showing that Singapore was badly hit during the Great Depression. From the source, the author indicated that he had to resort to imposing the maximum penalty on a businessman for not obtaining a licence. He seems to be giving us unbiased information regarding his action which is indicative of the hard times. Hence the purpose of the author in writing the source was to show us that times were really bad and he had to resort to desperate measures.

In addition, during the Great Depression, trade suffered. This was due to the very low demand for raw materials and other exotic products from the east. With this low demand, it meant that Singapore lost much of its trade from importing and exporting. This further affected the livelihood of people who depended on entrepot trade for a living. They included the coolies who provided labour services and traders and middlemen who conducted trade. This resulted in widespread unemployment and many coolies had to be sent home. Many businesses also closed down due to poor business.

The purpose of the writer was to highlight that Singapore was badly affected by the Great Depression and the Great Depression did indeed have very adverse effects on Singapore. Hence the source corroborated with the actual situation and given the purpose of the author, it is clear that Source A is reliable in showing that Singapore was badly hit during the Great Depression.

Chapter 5 Revision Questions

2007-05-15T06:50:00.000-07:00

How did the Great Depression affect the growth and prosperity of Singapore? Explain your answer. (6 marks)

TIP:

This question requires you to define the Great Depression and explore the ways in which Singapore's growth (business/trade/jobs) and prosperity (wealth/revenue/welfare) was affected.

Suggested Answer:

The Great Depression happened in the 1920s in America. During that time, the stock market collapsed and resulted in many people falling into debts. Hence many people became bankrupt and lost their jobs. Many businesses closed down and resulted in widespread unemployment. This meant that people were unwilling to spend and this in turn resulted in low demand for manufactured goods. As a result, America and European countries demanded less of good from the east, for example, rubber, tin, spices and other exotic products.

Singapore depended on entrepot trade for its growth and prosperity. This meant that Singapore earned much of its revenue by importing and exporting products. With less demand for goods found in the east by the European countries, it meant that the volume/quantity of goods coming into Singapore was reduced. This meant that the traders would be earning less from this entrepot trade. As such, Singapore lost its vital source of revenue from this trade and hence affected the welfare of the people. (prosperity)

With less trade, Singapore’s growth was also affected. Less traders coming into Singapore to trade meant that less coolies were needed to help unload/load the goods. This resulted in many coolies being sent back to their homeland. With less coolies, there was thus less demand for hawkers, barbers, letter writers etc and hence many different occupations lost their jobs. With widespread unemployment, Singapore’s growth was hampered.

RELIABILITY OF SOURCES

Reliability of sources questions the consistency and dependability of the source in providing accurate evidence of the past. Hence the question requires you to provide a conclusion as to whether the source is indeed accurate as evidence pertaining to the topic in question. However, you should provide a balance account, taking into consideration what is said in the source and what you know from contextual knowledge.(your own knowledge)

Approach to ‘reliability’ questions

Step 1: Read given source. Studying/Examining photos/pictures
Step 2: Infer. What does it mean? What is the source telling you?
Step 3: Evaluate purpose of source.
Is the writer trying to make you believe something?
Or is he giving you unbiased information?
Step 4: Evaluate situation given in source.
What else is happening at the time that might affect this source?
Why does the writer give you that message at that time?
Step 5: Check using the 5 ‘w’.
Who wrote it?
When was it written?
Why was it written?
For whom was it written?

What does my contextual knowledge say about this source? Match your knowledge with source. Corroborates? Or not?

Read Source B. Is Source B an accurate depiction of the British system of government in early Singapore? Explain your answer. (5m)

Source B

A British official account of the system of government in Singapore, 1819 – 1850

The system of government works well and smoothly. The best men we can get and those who represent the people the most, are nominated to seats. Their opinions are highly respected on all questions which they are familiar with. They closely watch and ably (skillfully or well) criticize the measures of the government.

Adapted from Honourable Intentions: Talks on the British Empire in Southeast Asia delivered at the Royal Colonial Institute, 1874 – 1928. Edited by Paul Kratoska, 1983

Sample Answer

From Source B, the British system of government works well and smoothly. The government was made up of the best men who represented the people most, their opinions highly respected on all questions which they are familiar with. This suggests that the author is trying to tell us that the British government was well organized, efficient and effective and that the officials understood the needs of the people.

Source B also tells us that the officials closely watch and ably criticize the measures of the government. This meant that the author was telling us that they gave feedback to the government to improve the system.

Most importantly, the British official who wrote this account thinks highly of his government. (step 1 and 2 – inferences from evidence)

Source B is not an accurate depiction of the British system of government in the early years. The writer is trying to make us believe that the British system of government is run efficiently and effectively. The writer is also giving us bias information as he himself is a British official and would not defame his own government. Hence he would only show us that the government only has good points, even if they might not be true. (step 3) purpose of writing the source

In addition, during early years of Singapore, the British neglected the welfare of the people. There was a high crime rate and locals were treated differently from the Europeans. The author probably wrote it to try to justify to the other officials that the government was doing a good job in the governing of Singapore. (step 4 – actual situation)

Hence Source B is not an accurate depiction of the British system of government of Singapore in the early years because the source only mentions how efficiently the government ran Singapore when in fact, there were many bad points of the government such as the discrimination of other races, no money given to other schools except English and Malay schools and the abuses of the coolies which is the total opposite of what the source has mentioned. (more examples of step 4)

Levels of Response Marking (LORMS)

Level 1 Lifting information from source, no explanation and did not answer question (1)

Level 2 Make attempts to make a judgement based on evidence and inferences (2-3)

Level 3 Make judgement with good inference and with reference to purpose of source and contextual knowledge (4-5)

History Test 2 April 2007 Corrections

2007-04-24T21:15:00.000-07:00

1) What does Source A say about the author’s view of the British system of government in Singapore? Explain your answer (4m)

Source A shows that the British system of government works well and smoothly.(evidence) This suggests that the British government was efficient and organized. (conclusion, inference) This meant that the author was proud/positive of the government because the source provenance stated that he was a British official.

In addition, the source was written by a British official and his view was presented at the Royal Colonial Institute. (evidence) This implies that the author probably gave a subjective account of the British system of government because he was part of the government.(conclusion) Besides from the provenance, it seems that he was compelled to praise the British government.

2) Compare sources B and C. How different are the sources on their account of Chinese SS as lawless and fearful? Explain your answer (6m)

In addition, Source B shows that the SS were very influential with gangs of up to 200 which raided the town every night. This implies that the SS power was great and created fear amongst the people. In contrast, Source C shows that the days of large scale society riots were over. This suggests that the SS were no longer creating an atmosphere of lawlessness.

However, Sources B and C are also similar in some ways in showing lawlessness. Source B shows that SS raided the town every night. This implies that the people would have lived in fear. Similarly, Source C shows that SS paralyzed Singapore which suggests that the people would have lived in a state of lawlessness and fear.

3) Explain the two measures adopted by the British govt to handle lawlessness in the Chinese community. (5m)

The British Government adopted several measures to deal with lawlessness. The Chinese community was made up of many members who were also involved in Secret Societies. These members were involved in the coolie trade which saw many form of abuses. For example, the coolies were tricked into coming to work here and they suffered poor conditions onboard the ships. In addition, they were also ill-treated by working long hours and given little food. This lack of governance created a sense of insecurity amongst the early migrants.

To deal with this problem the British govt set up the Chinese Protectorate to look into these abuses. William Pickering was appointed as the First Protector as he was able to communicate with the Chinese and thus would be able to act on the complaints of the coolies. This protectorate would also rescue coolies who were cheated to come here to work. Hence with this measure, the British government was able to look into the abuses of the coolie trade. With this sense of security, more coolies would be encouraged to come to work in Singapore.

In addition, the Chinese were also involved in many illegal activites like the operations of gambling dens, opium dens and brothels. The secret societies members were also involved in lawless activities like gang robberies and gang fights. This made the people fearful for their lives and created social instability and disrupted peace in society.

Source Based Question Practice

2007-03-29T21:56:00.000-07:00

Source A

The British Government of the Singapore

Because it was a trading port, the EIC had no interest in investing money to provide the settlement with the administrative structure it needed to rule effectively. While the EIC benefited from the port in terms of trade, there was not much revenue because Singapore was a free port. Rather than take a loss, they cut back expenditure on administration. In 1850, for example, the city had 59,023 people, but the police force consisted of only twelve constables and the governor was also the Chief of Police. The policemen were all Indians from Bengal, who had no idea what went on in the Chinese community. The British attitude was that as long as the problems in the Chinese community did not spill over into the community at large or threatens the economic health of the port, the Chinese could do what they liked.

Adapted from Jim Baker, Crossroads: A Popular History of Malaysia and Singapore,Times Book International

Source B

The Problem of Secret Societies in early Singapore

Another headache for the British Government in the 19th Century was internal law and order. Secret societies were more appealing to the Chinese population as they were looked upon as family compared to the foreign aliens. These organizations quickly gained control of the gambling dens and brothels, and set up protection rackets.
Riots originating from the crimes and rivalries of these different societies were frequent, and the British official, ignorant of any Chinese languages, were at a loss to know how to stop them. In 1851, a particularly vicious city-wide attack was made on all Chinese converts to Roman Catholicism, apparently regarded as a rival to the secret societies.

Adapted from Dick Wilson, East Meets West, Singapore, Times Printers SDN BHD, SIngapore

Compare Sources A and B. How similar are they in showing the British Government's policy towards the welfare of the people in early Singapore? Explain in detail. (Compare and contrast) (5m)

- This question requires you to provide both similarities and differences but the focus should be more on similarities. Hence you may give 2 similarities between Sources A and B and 1 difference.

- Focus on the key words in the question which would provide you with the criteria for comparison.

Similarities

Sources A and C are similar in showing the British Government’s policy towards the welfare of the people in Singapore. Source A shows that the govt had no interest in investing money as there was a shortage of revenue (showing evidence). This implies that the govt’s policy towards welfare is one of indifference. (conclusion) Source C also shows that the govt’s policy is one of care-less attitude because the source shows that riots, crimes and rivalries were rampant. Hence it implies that the govt did not care about the people.

In addition, Source A shows government had cut back on expenditure and there was only 12 policemen to a population of 59,023 people (evidence). This suggests that the govt did not really care about providing social services and law enforcement for the people.(conclusion). Similarly, Source C shows that vices like gambling and opium dens were controlled by secret societies. This implies that the govt did not do enough to stop the vices which meant that the govt’s attitude is bad.

Differences

On the other hand, Sources A and C are different in showing the govt’s policy. Source A shows the reason why the British did not invest was because of the lack of revenue and hence resulted in a care-less attitude whereas Source C merely shows that the secret societies were more appealing but did not explain the reason for the lack of welfare due to the government’s policy. Hence Source A is more detailed and specific while Source C is more factual.

In addition, Source A shows that the government’s policy was that the Chinese could do what they liked as long as trade was not disrupted. This suggests an attitude of resignation. However, Source C shows that the British officials were ignorant of the Chinese language and was at a loss of what to do. This implies the government did try but was not successful and hence does not show an indifferent attitude.

Structured Essay Question

Explain the causes of lawlessness in the early years of Singapore. (5m)

- This question requires you to provide the reasons why there is no law and order.

- Essentially you need to highlight the problems and then provide the reasons for these problems which resulted in no law and order.

The lawlessness in early Singapore was due to the problems created by the secret societies, piracy and the abuses of the coolie trade. Firstly, as a new settlement, Singapore attracted many immigrants. Hence many Chinese came to Singapore and some of them were criminals from China. Without any form of government’s regulation, immigrants were free to come and go. This made it difficult for the government to keep law and order. In addition secret societies were not made to register themselves and hence they could operate the gambling and opium dens without intervention by the government. This led to lawlessness in early Singapore.

In addition, piracy was rampant during the early days of Singapore. This is due to the poor conditions faced by the people in the Malay Archipelago and also the attractiveness of trade brought by foreign traders. This created a sense of insecurity amongst the people of Singapore. However, piracy was not stopped as there was a lack of government’ control. The British government had no revenue because Singapore was a free port. Besides, the British officials were mainly traders and hence they were not willing to spend money on improving the conditions for the people. Hence the British government had no interest in improving the welfare of the people as it would mean a loss of profits for them.

This lack of interest and intervention by the British government was also due to the fact that they do not understand the local culture and language of the immigrants. Most of the British officials were chosen by the Colonial Office and many had no experience in dealing with a foreign race and culture. This led to many misunderstandings and the Chinese would thus prefer to look upon the secret societies as their figure of authority. In addition, the policemen were mostly Indians and Sikhs. They were not able to enforce law and order because they could not understand the language of the locals. Besides, the police force was also very small as compared to the growing population and hence resulted in a lack of law and order in early Singapore.

Most importantly, this lack of knowledge of the local culture meant that the British Government was unable to understand the needs of the people. As such, they appeared nonchalant about the welfare of the people which resulted in most Chinese turning to secret societies for help and guidance. This created an atmosphere of mistrust between the locals and the government and enabled the secret societies to be more brazen in their operation of gambling and opium dens and even led to increased abuses of the coolies. With these activities, law and order in Singapore was lacking.

Chapter 4 How did the British Govern Singapore Before WW2

2007-03-18T19:37:00.000-07:00

Essential Questions

1)How does the structure of the government affect the welfare of the people?

2)What are the causes of lawlessness in a growing trading settlement?

1) How does the structure of the government affect the welfare of the people?

a) Formation of the Straits Settlements

• Anglo Dutch Treaty 1824 led to cessation of Dutch opposition to British occupation of Singapore
• Also resulted in exchange of British trading port of Bencoolen with that of Dutch trading port of Melaka

• John Crawfurd signed treaty with Sultan Hussein in August 1824 and handed the whole island to the British

• 1826, Penang, Melaka and Singapore was combined to form the Straits Settlements

• 1867 the Straits Settlements became a Crown Colony under the direct control of the Colonial Office in London

b) The System of Government in the Straits Settlements 1867-1942

REFER TO PAGE 60 of Textbook

c) Weaknesses of the System of Government in the Straits Settlements 1867-1942

REFER TO LESSON NOTES

d) Improvements to the System of Government in the Straits Settlements 1867-1942

• 1924 non-official members equal to the number of official members, hence more people involved in affairs of the country

• British officials had to pass exams and taught Malay & dialects

• Higher salaries and job prospects

• Increased powers of the Legislative Council in passing laws

• Dr Lim Boon Keng asked Legislative Council to pass law to control indiscriminate raising of house rents

• Eunos Abdullah asked Legislative Council to improve living conditions of the Malays.

• Kampong Melayu set aside provided Malays with cheap housing and small plots of land to grow vegetables and rear poultry.

2) What are the causes of lawlessness in a growing trading settlement?

a)Problems faced by the British government

•Chinese Secret Societies

•Many new immigrants were lured into joining because of promises of friendship and help

•They enjoyed the protection of the society. For poor members who died without anyone to bury them, the society would arrange for a proper burial

•Gang fights between rival groups were common over the collection of protection money

•Activities of these societies upset life in Singapore and disrupted trade

b) The Abuses of the Coolie Trade

• Too poor to pay for passage from China to Singapore

• Coolie agents pay for their passage and sell them to employers

• Coolies must work to pay off their debts for a year or more

• Coolie-ships were ‘floating hells’

• Treated like human cargoes packed like hundreds of pigs kepts in baskets

• Overcrowding and insufficient food and water

• Contaminated food and water leading to cholera

• Locked up in houses when they arrived in Singapore

• Without consent, they were sent to neighbouring countries

• Coolie-agents also resorted to kidnapping due to high demands for coolies

c) Piracy

• Why piracy increased?

• Coming of the Europeans brought wealth and trade to region

• Upset the prosperous archipelago trade

• Strict laws of the European traders like the British and Dutch forced archipelago traders to turn to piracy as a more profitable form of business

• Geography of the region suitable for piracy

• Thousands of islands in Malay Archipelago separated by narrow straits where ships had to sail through slowly

• Coasts covered with mangrove swamps provided hideouts

• Avoid easy detectin and capture.

d) Improving Law and Order in early Singapore

• Employing more policemen with higher pay and proper training

• Employing capable officials who could speak Malay & dialects

• Setting up of Detective Branch in 1862 later renamed as the CID in 1931

• Setting up of Chinese protectorate with William Pickering as first Protector of Chinese

• Served in China and speak fluent dialects like Cantonese, Teochew, Hokkien and Foochow

• Registration of chinese societies

• Registration of coolie agents and lodging houses with frequent inspection

• Rescuing girls from brothels

2 GEE WHY!

2007-03-07T14:48:00.000-08:00

Just for GEE WHY!

2007-02-21T03:55:00.000-08:00

Contributions of the Early Immigrants

Tip:

When studying this topic, do link the various occupations to one central theme. That is, all the occupations undertaken by the various races ultimately contributed to the growth of Singapore as an early settlement. So your task is to explain these points with reference to the role played by the early immigrants to the growth of early Singapore.

a)Contributions of the Malays

•Malay shopkeepers, hawkers, fishermen provided basic necessities

•Ship builders built boats for the Chinese & Malay traders

•Rich businessmen helped in the building of schools and wells in villages

b) Contributions of the Chinese

• Chinese middlemen acted as links between local & British traders

• Businessmen provided jobs for new immigrants

• Chinese philanthropists cared for the welfare of less fortunate countrymen

• Unskilled labourers worked in construction sites & dockyards

c) Contributions of the Indians

• Indian Chettiars provided banking & money-lending

• Indian convicts cleared jungles and built road and buildings

• Indian shopkeepers provided dairy products, cloth & laundry services

• Indian bullock drivers provided transport

d) Contributions of the Europeans

• British merchants set up agency houses which carried goods to and from Europe, India & China

• Businessmen provided services like banking, shipping & insurance

• British officials served as administrators of the settlement

Greetings and Salutations 2007

2007-02-20T23:07:00.000-08:00

Dear All

Welcome back to a new year!

This is to inform you that from this year onwards, I will not be posting any materials pertaining to History of Ancient India, China and Southeast Asia. As I am teaching Sec 2 History, the focus will thus be on Singapore's History.

Do check this blog for updates on teaching notes, reading materials, homework, assignments and other relevant materials.

Happy reading!

Unable to access email account

2006-09-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

Just a note to inform those who email me today 30 Sept 2006 Saturday. I am afraid I am unable to access my edumail account. Server seems to be down. Will try to do so on 1 Oct Sunday.

Source Based Questions Final Exams 2005 Answer Scheme

2006-09-26T18:54:00.000-07:00

Please refer to the level descriptors to see what is expected of you in answering source based questions.

a) Read Source A. What does Source A say about the impact of the flooding in China? Explain your answer. (Inferring Skills)

Level 1 Describing the source or narrating from the source (1m)
Source A says that the flooding in China caused massive destruction and killed 536 people. The floods also destroyed houses, cut off communication network and destroyed factories. Many people were also evacuated.

Level 2 Attempts to draw conclusions with reference to source (2m-3m)
According to Source A, the flooding in China caused massive destruction in terms of human lives and businesses. The flooding claimed 536 lives and this would probably result in the breakdown of the family unit.
In addition, the flooding also destroyed factories which are the prospering “export industries”. This would probably caused the country to lose business and money and affects the country’s economy.
(2m for ONE point and 3m for TWO points)

Level 3 Drawing conclusions with reference to source clearly explained (3m-4m)
According to Source A, flooding in China resulted in loss of human lives. In addition, due to the floods, millions were evacuated and probably relocated to other cities. This loss of human lives suggests social implications as families were broken and some might have lost their parents. The relocation of these victims to temporary shelters also meant social problems like overcrowding, lack of proper sanitation and looting.
Moreover, the floods also destroyed factories which are the country’s booming export industries. Basic infrastructure features like roads and communications were also disrupted. This suggests that the impact of the floods is also felt in the economic aspects. The country’s economy would probably suffer as businesses were affected and since communications were cut off, businesses would come to a stand still.
(3m for ONE point and 4m for TWO points)

b) Study Source B. How useful is Source B to one studying the internal threats faced by India? Explain. (Analysis and Contextual Knowledge)

Level 1 Describing the source or lifting from source (1m)
Source B states that the internal threat faced by India is earthquake. There was food scarcity and lack of drinking water.

Level 2 One sided or Two sided answer unexplained (2m)
Source B is useful to one studying internal threats faced by India as it shows earthquake and droughts
OR
Source B is not useful as it did not show other types of internal threats.

Level 3 One sided answer explained (3m)
Two sided answer with attempts to explain (3m)
Source B is useful to one studying the internal threats faced by India. From the source, it can be seen that India was affected by an earthquake that caused massive destruction in terms of human lives and public amenities like roads, schools and hospitals. This posed as a danger to India as the destruction meant that the way of life in India is affected.
In addition, the source is also useful as it mentioned that India also faced other threats like drought and in turn caused famine which caused “water scarcity”. Hence, the source not only provides useful information regarding the dangers but also the effects the dangers had on the country.
OR
Source B is not useful to one studying the internal threats faced by India. From the source, it only mentioned one earthquake that struck Gujerat in January 2001. It did not provide enough information about the frequency and intensity of earthquakes in India. Hence, without this information, it is not clear about the actual impact this natural disaster had on India.
In addition, though the source did briefly mentioned that drought had occurred, it did not provide specific details about the event. The source is also lacking as it did not mentioned other internal threats like rebellions or civil wars. Most importantly, it did not mention other natural disasters like flooding and cyclones which are very frequent in the Bay of Bengal.

Level 4 Two sided answer explained (4m-5m)
Both of Level 3 answers.

(4m for ONE point for both sides and 5m for TWO points for both sides)

c) Compare Sources B and C. How similar are they in showing the consequences of earthquakes in India? Explain in detail. (Compare and contrast)

Level 1 Show only similarities or differences without explanations (1m)

Sources B and C are similar as they both show that the earthquakes caused mass destruction to India. Other consequences are that many people died and buildings destroyed.
Or
Sources B and C are different as Source B focuses more on the devastation of the infrastructure of Gujerat while Source C shows the destruction on coastal villages in Sri Lanka.

Level 2 Show both similarities and differences without explanations (2m)

All of Level 1 answers

Level 3 Show only similarities or differences with explanations (3-4m)
Two sided answer with attempts to show both similarities and differences

Sources B and C are similar in showing the consequences of earthquakes in India. Source B shows that the earthquake in Gujerat killed many people and destroyed communications network, roads and other public amenities like schools and hospitals. This is also seen in Source C where the Indian Ocean earthquake destroyed the industrial infrastructure which suggests that public amenities like roads and communications were destroyed.
In addition both sources also clearly show that earthquakes also caused the people to suffer from a severe shortage or lack of water supply. Moreover, Source B shows that families, livelihoods and social networks were destroyed. This suggests that the consequences of the earthquakes were far reaching as many people would be left homeless and thus more social problems would surface. Similarly, Source C shows with the destruction of the coastal villages, many lives were lost and thus suggests that families were broken and many would be left homeless.
(3m for ONE point and 4m for TWO points)
OR
Sources B and C are different in showing the consequences of earthquakes in India. While Source B is more detailed in describing the destruction of public amenities like power and water supply, road and telecommunication networks, schools, hospitals and buildings, Source C did not mention specifically the kind of public amenities being destroyed but summed it up with the destruction of industrial infrastructure.
In addition, Source B states that the consequences of the earthquake in Gujerat brought in long-term help in reconstruction, Source B did not provide any information regarding relief efforts. While Source B shows how the relief efforts brought about reconstruction of public houses and as a result of the earthquake, “higher standard” of houses were built, Source C did not provide details of reconstruction. Instead, Source C dealt with more severe consequences like the “contamination of farm fields by “salt water from the ocean”. Source C also states the severe consequences of the earthquake on the shipping along the Straits of Malacca and how sea routes might need to be re-charted.
(3m for ONE point and 4m for TWO points or more)

Level 4 Show BOTH similarities and differences with explanations (5-6m)

Both of LEVEL 3 answers.

(5m for 1 point for each similarity and difference and 6m for 2 points for each similarities and differences)

TIPS FOR ANSWERING SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

2006-09-19T16:49:00.000-07:00

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS (STRUCTURED QUESTIONS)

1) Short Answer Questions consist of a few sub-questions that focus on ONE particular topic.

2) The title of the topic is usually given before the questions. This provides the reader information regarding what the answer should be.

3) Marks are given for each sub-question. When answering these questions, note the number of marks that have been allocated.

4) Generally, a sub-question which carries more marks requires a more detailed answer.

5) You should also note the instruction words in the questions. For example, instruction words like 'state', 'list', 'name' basically require you to simply provide the answer without providing any form of elaboration.

6) Words like 'explain' or 'give reasons to account for' require you to give the meaning of a word or reasons why the event happened.

7) This is different from 'describe' which only requires you to give a descriptive account of the facts. In answering these questions, you must do exactly as the instructions words tell you to.

8) Below is an example of what elaborate means.

Elaborating on an idea means to add details, explanations, examples, illustrations, opinions and other relevant information. For example you might say 'Qin Shi Huang is a good emperor'. This is a factual statement. If you are asked to elaborate on this, you could say 'Qin Shi Huang is a good emperor BECAUSE he unified the whole of China. He did so by changing the system of government and brought about systematic changes to his empire.

You have thus provided information and examples to elaborate on your original statement.

9) Below is an example of what explain means.

Explain means to give reasons to account for the course of the event. Basically you are answering the question "WHY". For example, the question might be 'Give reasons to account for the popularity of Oc-eo as a trading port'. This question requires you to give the give the factors that contribute to the popularity of Oc-eo.

Your answer might be: Oc-eo was popular as a trading port because of its ideal location. It is situated halfway between two trading countries namely China and India. Traders from these countries found Oc-eo to be an ideal stopover for rest and replenishment.

Your answer thus explains the reasons why it is popular with traders as Oc-eo is situated in an ideal location.

ASEAN

2006-09-11T21:23:00.000-07:00

Please follow the link and read about the objectives of the formation of ASEAN.

http://www.aseansec.org/64.htm

Answer Scheme for History Test 2 Term 3 on 14 August 2006

2006-09-10T03:04:00.000-07:00

Answer Scheme

1a) Read Source A. What can you infer from the source about the misleading name of the Silk Road? Explain your answer. (4m)

Level 1 Lift information from the source (1m)

Source A states that the Silk Road in ancient times served as important means of business relations and cultural exchanges between East and West.

Level 2 Uses information from source and make attempts to explain from evidence (2-3m)

From Source A, the Silk Road served as important means of business relations and cultural exchanges between East and West. This suggests that the Silk Road is not just for trading in silk and hence name is misleading.
In addition, Source A says that many other precious commodities were carried along the Silk Road. This implies that Silk is not the only commodity as suggested by its name and hence it is misleading.
(2m for 1 point and 3m for 2 points)

Level 3 Makes inferences using evidence from source and provides logical explanations with reference to the key topic of the questions (3-4m)

From Source A, the Silk Road is a widespread network of caravan ways between China and the West. This suggests that the Silk Road is made up of many routes which are used by the many caravans travelling between China and the West. This meant that the name of ‘road’ is misleading as the Silk Road is not made up of just a single route.
In addition, Source A shows that the Silk Road serves as important means of business relations and cultural exchanges between East and West. It also shows that many other precious commodities were carried along the Silk Road. These implies that the Silk Road promoted the spread of influence between east and west and encouraged trading of a wide variety of goods. This meant that the name of ‘Silk’ is misleading as the Silk Road is not just for the trading of Silk.
(3m for 1 point and 4m for 2 points)

1b) Study Source B. How useful is the source in showing the purpose of the Silk Road? Explain your answer. (5m)

Level 1 One sided answer. Useful or Not useful without explanations. (1m)

Source B is useful in showing the purpose of the Silk Road as Zhang Qian was sent to seek allies with the northern tribes against the Xiongnus.
Or
Source B is not useful in showing the purpose of the Silk Road as it did not mention that it is used for the trading of other goods.

Level 2 One sided answer. Useful or Not useful with explanations. (2-3 m)
Level 2 Two Sided answers with NO explanations. (2m)

Source B is useful in showing the purpose of the Silk Road. From Source B, the Silk Road originated from a desire for military and political purpose instead of for trade. This implies that the Silk Road was used for establishing allies and strengthening a country military might. Source B is thus useful in showing that the Silk Road is used for political purposes.
In addition Source B also shows that silk inaugurated the trade along the Silk Road. This suggests that silk was being traded along this road and hence led to more trade of other commodities. Hence Source B is useful in showing that the Silk Road was used for the purpose of trade.
(2m for 1 point and 3m for 2 points)
OR
On the other hand, Source B is not useful in showing the other purposes or uses of the Silk Road. While Source B mentioned that the Silk Road was used for political and military purposes, it is lacking in information regarding the spread of influence and culture like religion along the Silk Road. For example, Buddhism found its way from India to China via the Silk Road and this is not mentioned in Source B.
In addition, Source B also failed to highlight that the Silk Road is also used for the purpose of trading in other precious commodity. While it did mentioned that silk inaugurated the trade along the Silk Road, it did not show that the Silk Road serves as important caravan routes for the trade in other goods like spices, wine, horses etc.

Level 3 Two sided answer showing both strengths and limitations with good explanations. (4-5m)

Both answers of Level 2.(4m for 1 point each of useful and not useful and 5m for 2 points each)

1c) Compare Sources A and C. How similar are they in showing that the Silk Road plays a contributing role in ushering in the Golden Age of China? Explain your answer. (6m)

Level 1 Shows only similarities OR differences unexplained (1m)

Sources A and B are similar as they both show that foreign influence could be transmitted to China thus resulting in Golden Age.
OR
Sources A and B are different as Source A shows that the Silk Road served as important means of cultural exchanges while Source B merely shows different cities.

Level 2 Shows both sides unexplained (2m)

Both of level 1 answer.

Level 3 Shows only similarities OR differences explained (3-4m)

Sources A and B are similar in showing that the Silk Road helped to usher in the Golden Age of China. Source A shows that the Silk Road served as important means of business relations and cultural exchanges between China and the west. This implies that foreign influence were easily transmitted to China and thus contribute to the creativity of the Chinese and ushered in the Golden Age. Similarly, Source C shows that China is connected to many different cities and towns of Central Asia and hence implies that foreign influences could easily be spread to China. This resulted in a flourishing of new ideas and thus contributed to the Golden Age.
In addition, Source A shows that many precious commodities were carried along the Silk Road. This implies that China was able to benefit from this wide variety of goods being traded and hence brought great wealth to the empire. This contributed to the prosperity that is a Golden Age. This can also be seen in Source C where China is connected to the west by the Silk Road. This suggests that China was able to enjoy the wide variety of goods from both the west and central Asia and hence enjoyed the wealth and prosperity leading to its Golden Age.
(3m for 1 point and 4m for 2 points)

OR

Sources A and C are also different in showing that the Silk Road contributes to the Golden Age of China. Source A states that the Silk Road served as important business relations and cultural exchanges between East and West which made possible exchange of influences leading to a Golden Age for China. However, Source C merely shows different cities and towns with no indications of any spread of influence that might contribute to the Golden Age.
In addition, Source A is more detailed and specific in showing the different kind of goods that China get to enjoy and hence leading to wealth and prosperity that is a Golden Age. However Source C is only a map which is vague in details and merely shows the routes and location of cities with no mention of any kind of goods nor wealth to the country.

Level 3 Shows both similarities and differences with attempts to explain (3-4m)

Level 4 Shows both similarities and differences with good understanding of the cause and features of Golden Age (5-6m)

Both of Level 3 answers. 5m for 1 point for both sides and 6m for 2 points for both sides

Supplementary Reading for Chapter 5

2006-09-07T06:06:00.000-07:00

INTRODUCTION

In modern times, we establish contact even without travelling very far. This is done either via phone, internet, fax or email. Moreover, the existence of planes makes travelling around the world easier. Hence contacts are easily established between people of different countries.

However, in the past, it was only through actual contact that people could carry out any form of interaction. This meant that people had to travel for months, even years just to get to their intended destination. Very often, they travelled through harsh terrains on foot.

Questions:

1) Is modern contact more deceptive as there is a tendency for less face to face interaction?

2) Contact in the past was a tedious process. Does it necessarily mean it was less exciting?

SECTION 1

Reasons for Contact (similar to reasons for venturing overseas)

Peaceful Contact

1) Curiosity - Ancient people ventured overseas to explore new places as they were curious. They wanted to find out more about these foreign lands as information were readily available through the traders or travellers. This new information prompted them to venture overseas to discover the places for themselves.

2) Trade - As a result of their curiosity, people who ventured overseas returned home with rare and exotic products which were not available in their own countries. This in turn resulted in more people going overseas in order to trade. Trading ties also helped the people to make money.

3) Religion - Traders who returned to their countries after trading usually brought with them information about the foreign lands. This prompted kings and rulers to send missionaries to these foreign lands in order to spread their faith. This would foster ties between the countries which would benefit trade.

In addition, rulers and kings would also be interested to find out about the faith and culture of the foreign lands. Hence, they would send out pilgrims to these foreign countries to learn their faith and bring back religious scriptures. Adapting foreign culture showed that the kings and rulers were opened to new ideas which bears testimony to an advanced civilisation.

4) Political ties - Readily available information brought back by traders, pilgrims, missionaries enabled the rulers and kings to establish ties with neighbouring countries. Very often, political ties were forged in order to avert war or to get protection against a hostile country. For example, Zhang Qian was sent by Han Wu Ti to establish ties with the Yuezhi tribe against the Xiongnus. This was due to the constant aggression of the Xiongnus against China.

Hostile Contact

A very good example would be the unification of China by Qin Shihuang. China was a divided country during the Warring States Period. When the Zhou Dynasty began to weaken around 500BC, a few independent states began to war among themselves over territory and influence (power). This period was extremely chaotic and it did not end until it was unified under the Qin Dynasty.

Qin Shihuang was extremely harsh and autocratic but he was a brilliant political theorists and reformer. Following the basic principles of Legalism, he believed that human beings were naturally selfish and they thus need strong laws to strictly control them. These laws were effective only if punishments were severe and certain, so the Qin Dynasty was often described as repressive.

Please read the following link http://www.wsu.edu/~dee/CHEMPIRE/CHIN.HTM

Please read the text for:

1) Advantages and disadvantages of INTERACTION Pg 122-124

2) Advantages and disadvantages of DIRECT TRADE Pg 125-126

3) Advantages and disadvantages of INDIRECT TRADE Pg 126-127

4) Advantages and disadvantages of POLITICAL CONTACTS Pg 129-130

Exercises for Structured Questions will be given during revision when term starts. If you have any questions pertaining to Chapter 5, do email me. However, do be patient regarding replies as MOE is doing some revamp to Edumail.

Enjoy the rest of the holidays.

Singapore Fireworks Festival Team FRANCE

2006-08-12T08:37:00.000-07:00

This is the last of the Fireworks Festival. Will be back for more next year.

COMMON STEPS TAKEN TO ANSWER SOURCE BASED QUESTIONS

2006-08-11T10:00:00.001-07:00

STEPS FOR ANSWERING INFERRING QUESTIONS

1) Find evidence from source.

Your evidence must be relevant to the topic required by the question.

2) Make conclusion based on the evidence you identified.

Your conclusion must be based on the evidence that you identified. Hence this conclusion should be relevant to the topic of the question.

3) Explain your conclusion with relevance to the question.

This explanation will link your conclusion to the question. Hence when you explain your conclusion, you are basically addressing the question.

STEPS FOR ANSWERING 'HOW USEFUL' QUESTIONS

This type of questions require you to assess the usefulness of the SOURCE given. That is, you are required to show the strengths and limitations of the SOURCE.

Simply put, does the source help you in your understanding of the topic. If it does, its useful. If it does not, it is therefore lacking in information which you can perhaps find in other sources like your textbook.

1) Identify the topic of the question.

Ensure that you know what is the key point required by the question.

2) Do a word splash once the topic is identified.

Write down in point form all the points that are relevant to the topic. These points are basically facts that were delivered in class and those that you have revised.

3) Locate the points (identified in word splash) from the source.

Try to link these points in the word splash to the source. That is, match word splash with source.

4) Assess the strengths and limitations of source.

If you are able to find points from the word splash in the source, it means that the source has provided you with information pertaining to the topic of the question. Hence the source is useful.

However, if you cannot find points from word splash in the source, it means that the source is lacking in those information. Hence the source is not useful.

STEPS FOR ANSWERING COMPARISON QUESTIONS

Basically this type of questions requires you to look for similarities and differences in how the source present the points to you. So you should be on the lookout for similarities and differences in contents, that is, do they show the same facts or different facts.
You should also be on the lookout for similarities and differences in terms of presentation. That is, a map or picture will be very different in the way the points are presented to you as compared to an article.

1) Identify the topic of the question.

Ensure that you know what is the key point required by the question.

2) Do a word splash once the topic is identified.

Write down in point form all the points that are relevant to the topic. These points are basically facts that were delivered in class and those that you have revised.

3) Locate the points (identified in word splash) from the sources.

Try to link these points in the word splash to the sources. That is, match word splash with sources.

4) Assess the similarities and differences of the Sources.

If you are able to find points from the word splash in BOTH sources, it means that the sources are similar. Once you identify that the points are similar, GIVE evidence from both sources to show their similarities.

However, if you cannot find points from word splash in ONE source but is able to do so in the other, it means that the sources are difference. Once you identify that the sources are different, GIVE evidence from both soures to show their differences.

More Fireworks By Team Caledonia

2006-08-11T08:31:00.000-07:00

Singapore Fireworks Festival Team Singapore 8 August 2006

2006-08-08T08:20:00.000-07:00

These are some of the highlights of the fireworks I saw at the Padang at 9 pm. You can still catch the action on the 11 August and 12 August at the Marina Bay. Dont miss it!

Answers for E Learning Source Based Questions

2006-08-08T00:23:00.000-07:00

1a) From Source A, there are many natural geographical features like deserts and mountains such as the Taklamakan Desert and the Himalayas (evidence). This implies that these features might be obstacles/barriers for traders traveling along the routes (conclusion). This meant that the traders are forced to go around these features and hence used different routes (explanation).

In addition, Source A shows that there are many towns and cities along the Silk Road (evidence). This suggests that these towns and cities offered a wide variety of goods such as wine, spices precious stones (conclusion). This meant that the traders would have to use different routes in order to acquire different goods (explanation)

Source A also shows that the journey from Chang’an to Rome is very long (evidence). This infers that they would probably need to stop for rest and replenishment of supplies (conclusion). This meant that they would have to use different routes so that they could find lodging/shelter and supplies (explanation).

1b) Source B is useful in showing the contributing factors to the Golden Age of China. Emperor Mingdi was thought to have sent a representative to India to acquire scriptures of Buddhism. This suggests that the Han rulers encouraged the freedom of religious practices. This meant that the good governmental policies was crucial in ushering in the Golden Age of China.
In addition, Source B shows that five thousand foreigners resided in the city of Chang’an. This implies that there was racial harmony which was probably due to the freedom given to the people by the rulers. Hence Source B is USEFUL in showing that the government played an important role in bringing about a Golden Age.

On the other hand, Source B has its limitations in showing the factors. While Source B shows that the government encouraged freedom of religious practices, it did not state other kind of policies like the land equalization system which gave the people a means of livelihood. This is important as it led to peace which is a crucial factor for Golden Age.
In addition, Source B is not very useful in showing that as a result of what the government did for the people, there was peace and stability. It did not specifically show that the people actually benefit from the many policies implemented by the government. Hence Source B is not useful as it did not show that with peace and stability, a golden age was possible.

1c) Sources A and C are similar in showing that the name of the Silk Road is misleading. From Source A, the map shows that the Silk Road is not just one road but a series of routes that connects different towns/cities. This is also seen in Source C where its shows that no single route was taken but instead a northern route and southern route. Thus both sources are similar in showing that the name of Silk Road is misleading as it is made up of many different routes.
In addition, Source A shows many different towns and cities which suggests that different kind of goods could be found there. Similarly, Source C stated clearly that silk is not the only commodity traded along this road but many other commodities like spices and exotic goods. Hence both sources are similar in showing that the name is misleading as not only silk is traded but many other goods.

On the other hand, Sources A and C are different in their presentation of the facts. While Source C gives a more specific and detailed account of the reasons why the name is misleading, Source A is only a map which shows physical features like routes and names of towns. While Source A sought to explain the reasons for the misleading name, Source C is vague and does not provide any reasons. It did not give examples like the different goods that were found.

The Silk Routes

2006-08-03T22:41:00.000-07:00

The routes also changed due to natural geographical barriers like mountains and deserts. The Himalayas and the Pamirs mountains and the Taklamakan deserts play a crucial role in forcing traders to use alternative routes as traders would have to avoid these obstacles. This resulted in the Silk Road branching into many routes.

Reading Topic for History Test 14 August 2006

2006-08-03T17:39:00.000-07:00

The topic for this History Test on the 14 August 2006 is the Silk Road. The test will be Source Based Questions. Hence it will be useful to revise through the answer schemes that I have either given you in class or email to you. These answer schemes help you see the steps required in order to answer the questions.

To gain a better understanding of the topic, do key in "the silk road" in any search engines. You may want to read this website.

Click on the link http://alumnus.caltech.edu/~pamlogan/srart.html

Answers for the E Learning work will be posted next week once I have gone through with you in class. Do check this site regularly for more updates.

Common Mistakes for Source Based Questions

2006-07-30T23:36:00.000-07:00

These are some of the common mistakes made by Sec 1 pupils in their Source Based Answers for History Test 1 Term 3 on the 24 July 2006. These mistakes tend to lower the level in which your answer is graded and hence result in lower marks.

Example1 (Question 2):

Both Sources A and B show that they are in frequent contact with foreign countries, this in turn cause the culture of the Tang to be more splendid and diverse. Both sources also show that they had many cultural achievements, such that the arts had reached a high level of excellence.

Learning Points

1) Notice that this answer is very generalised. The author made no attempts to give and explain evidence from the respective sources. She merely assumes that both sources give the same points which in effect, both sources show similar points but not exactly the same.

2) Always give evidence from the source. Notice that the answer does not contain specific evidence from the source.

3) It would be useful to give an answer like this:

Both Sources A and B show that they are in frequent contact with foreign countries thus resulting in a diverse culture. This is seen in Source A where different religions existed in Chang'an. SIMILARLY, this is also seen in Source B where the extensive contact with foreign countries resulted in a cosmopolitan culture.

Example 2 (Question 2):

On the other hand, Source A shows that prosperity contributed to the cultural vitality of the Tang period while Source B did not. Source A shows the reasons why the economy was stimulated whereas Source B did not.

Learning Points

1) Notice that the writer did not show any differences. She merely sums up the answer with "did not" and makes no attempt to explain what the other source did not show.

2) It would be useful to give an answer like this:

On the other hand, Source A shows that prosperity contributed to the cultural vitality of the Tang period with the opening of the Grand Canal while Source B merely states that arts and science flourished due to economic stability.

Example 3 (Question 1):

There are many foreign religions like Islam, Judaism, Christianity. (E) This proves that the people have the freedom to choose to believe any religion they want and hence, they would not rebel the ruler (C).

Learning Points

1) Notice that the answer is incomplete as the writer did not seek to address the question. The topic of the question is about the contributing factors for a Golden Age. The writer merely conclude without any reference to the topic.

2) It would be useful to give an answer like this:

There are many foreign religions like Islam, Judaism, Christianity in Chang'an (E). This SUGGESTS that the people have the freedom to choose to believe in any religion they want (C). This in turn meant that with the freedom, they are open to new ideas which would bring about new approaches to life and hence set the tone for the Golden Age (EXP).

These mistakes are very common and hence it would be useful to take note of them and not repeat these mistakes for the next test and exams.

The Taklamakan Desert

2006-07-26T07:07:00.000-07:00

Useful Tips for E Learning Day

2006-07-24T00:42:00.000-07:00

Preparations for E Learning Day

1) Read up on the Silk Road from the internet.

2) Look up on maps by using "images" either from google or yahoo.

3) Take note of the natural terrain one has to go through when using the Silk Road.

Happy Reading!

Notes for E Learning Day 27 July 2006

2006-07-24T00:37:00.000-07:00

Note for Sec 1SY 1GY 1PE 1GR

Online work for E Learning will be posted on the 27 July 2006 at 9.00 am. Check this site for the homework to be done and take note of the instructions given on that day for submission. Direct all queries to Mr Ang at ang_wee_boon@moe.edu.sg

Happy Learning!

Assignment for E Learning Day 27 July 2006

2006-07-09T11:01:00.000-07:00

Instructions for submission

1) Read the Sources and answer all the questions.

2) Answers to be done on a Microsoft Word Document.

3) Save your document as your name and class, for example, tanlingling 1GR.

4) Send your answer as an attachment to an email to ang_wee_boon@moe.edu.sg

5) Your answer must be submitted on 27 July 2006 by 5pm.

Source A

Map of the Silk Road

Click on the map to see a clearer version.

Adapted from http://www.thebritishmuseum.net/thesilkroad/imageFiles/SilkRoadMap.gif

Source B

The Silk Road

The most significant commodity carried along this route was not silk, but religion. Buddhism came to China from India this way, along the northern branch of the route. The first influences came as the passes over the Karakorum were first explored. The Eastern Han emperor Mingdi is thought to have sent a representative to India to discover more about this strange faith, and further missions returned bearing scriptures, and bringing with them India priests
The art and civilisation of the Silk Road achieved its highest point in the Tang Dynasty. Changan, as the starting point of the route, as well as the capital of the dynasty, developed into one of the largest and most cosmopolitan cities of the time. By 742 A.D., the population had reached almost two million, and the city itself covered almost the same area as present-day Xian, considerably more than within the present walls of the city. The 754 A.D. census showed that five thousand foreigners lived in the city; Turks, Iranians, Indians and others from along the Road, as well as Japanese, Koreans and Malays from the east. Many were missionaries, merchants or pilgrims, but every other occupation was also represented. Rare plants, medicines, spices and other goods from the west were to be found in the bazaars of the city.

Adapted from http://www.ess.uci.edu/~oliver/silk.html

Source C

The Nature of the Route

The description of this route to the west as the "Silk Road" is somewhat misleading. Firstly, no single route was taken; crossing Central Asia several different branches developed, passing through different oasis settlements. The routes all started from the ancient capital in Xi'an, headed up the Gansu corridor, and reached Dunhuang on the edge of the Taklimakan Desert.
The northern route then passed through Yumen Guan (Jade Gate Pass) and crossed the neck of the Gobi desert to Hami (Kumul), before following the Tian Shan range around the northern fringes of the Taklimakan. It passed through the major oases of Turfan and Kuqa before arriving at Kashgar, at the foot of the Pamirs.
The southern route branched off at Dunhuang, passing through the Yang Guan and skirting the southern edges of the desert, via Miran, Hetian (Khotan) and Shache (Yarkand), finally turning north again to meet the other route at Kashgar.
Secondly, the Silk Road was not a trade route that existed solely for the purpose of trading in silk; many other commodities were also traded, from gold and ivory to exotic animals and plants. Of all the precious goods crossing this area, silk was perhaps the most remarkable for the people of the West.

Adapted from http://library.thinkquest.org/20443/silkroad.html

Questions

1a) Study Source A. What information can you infer from Source A about the reasons why the Silk Road is branched into so many routes? Explain your answer. (4m)

1b) Examine Source B. How useful is Source B in showing the factors that contribute to the Golden Age of China? Explain your answer. (5m)

1c) Compare Sources A and C. How similar are they in showing that the name of the Silk Road is misleading? Explain your answer. (6M)