Critical Thinking through Singapore Cinema

Overview

Programme IDAEP0220271

Programme TypeTalks

Recommended Size 15 - 45

Language English

Programme Format On-site, Digital

Cost $650.00 Per hour

Primary Art Form - Sub-Genre Digital Media - Filmmaking

Student Profile Secondary Upper, JC/CI

Duration

Secondary Art Form - Sub-Genre -

Venue (where applicable)

Showcase

Programme Synopsis Singapore cinema is an integral part of the nation’s artistic and cultural landscape and is as varied and colourful as Singapore herself. This multi-faceted feature of Singapore cinema thus raises interesting questions worthy of critical evaluation. For example, what topics and issues are prevalent in Singapore cinema? How does Eric Khoo’s critically acclaimed 12 Storeys (1997) challenge state narratives? How does Jack Neo’s widely successful Ah Girls Go Army (2022) both align with and subvert conventional nation-building strategies? To unpack these questions on the diverse topics in Singapore cinema, critical thinking is (the) key. This programme aims to demystify critical thinking by making the process of critical thinking itself explicit and visible—and hence more accessible for students. Specifically, students will be guided through a systematic 3-step approach to critical analysis through the fun and accessible medium of Singapore cinema. Through close analysis of film clips and situating films within wider contexts, students will learn how to methodically map out and unpack arguments, using the criterion-based intellectual standards of critical thinking: relevance, sufficiency, and acceptability. Ultimately, students will learn how to use Singapore films as a form of source-based evidence to analyse and interpret past and present socio-political issues; apply specific critical thinking skills in a structured manner when articulating complex issues through effective arguments; as well as cultivate a deeper appreciation for Singapore cinema. This programme offers a range of focus topics related to national identity that you can choose from for your students, such as: 1) National Service in Singapore Cinema 2) The “Heartland” in Singapore Cinema Some examples of contemporary local films and directors include Anthony Chen’s critically acclaimed Ilo Ilo (2013) and Jack Neo’s commercially successful Ah Boys to Men franchise, depending on which focus topic you choose. Films are carefully curated for specific student groups and based on IMDA’s Films Classification Database. Integral to the programme are student-engagement activities that include a combination of digital platforms such as Kahoot! and Poll Everywhere, open-ended questions posed to the floor, and small group discussions for collaborative learning. These activities aim to consolidate students’ learning and empower them to become more effective self-directed thinkers beyond the programme, as they will be able to apply the same critical thinking techniques when engaging with other texts and media, as well as school subjects such as History, Geography, English Literature, Social Studies, Economics, and General Paper.

Focus Areas Appreciate Arts & Culture, Articulate Thoughts & Ideas

Point of Emphasis SG Cultural Identity

Lesson Goal #1 To create awareness on the ideological role of contemporary Singapore cinema in constructing and/or deconstructing national identity.

Lesson Goal #2 To empower students to think critically and form independent responses about film through a visible and systematic 3-step critical thinking approach.

Audio/Sound System, Microphone

Face-to-face session: - Projector and screen - Stable internet connection needed for activities on digital platforms e.g., Kahoot!, Poll Everywhere, etc. - Student’s personal learning devices to participate in these activities Digital session: - Session will be conducted via Zoom created by the vendor - Student’s personal learning devices to participate in activities on digital platforms e.g., Kahoot!, Poll Everywhere, etc.

The Tote Board Arts Grant was introduced in 1995 to encourage the development of a vibrant arts culture in schools, and to promote arts appreciation amongst students.

Each year, all MOE schools and ITE Colleges may opt-in to receive the Arts Grant. Schools may use the grant to subsidise the purchase of programmes under the NAC-AEP and for the Artist-in-School Scheme (AISS).

All approved programmes are listed on the NAC-AEP Directory and come with a valid Letter of Eligibility.

To purchase this programme, contact the representative listed on the Programme Detail Page and make contractual arrangements directly with the programme provider.

Please ensure that a valid Letter of Eligibility (LOE) is obtained. Note that MOE procurement guidelines apply.

Payment should be made directly to the programme provider. Claims for the Arts Grant should be made via IFAAS and in accordance to Grant Guidelines.

Programme providers are permitted to make changes to the following aspects of an NAC-AEP, according to the school’s needs:

Programme duration, including no. of sessions
Cost of programme
Class size

Under the above conditions, schools can make claims based on revised programme costs using the same Programme ID listed on the Letter of Eligibility (LOE).

The following changes are not permitted when customising programmes:

Changes to content
Inclusion of non-approved instructor(s)

Offered by:

subtxt LLP

At subtxt, Ain and Wei Li conduct lectures and workshops to teach critical thinking through film to pre-university students.

Contact

Nurul Ain Binte Yahya nurulain@subtxt.com.sg Visit provider page

This programme has not been reviewed