Social Studies

Discover how Waterway Primary's Social Studies programme shapes students into active, caring citizens through three key learning clusters on identity, Singapore's history, and the wider world.

Last updated 27 August 2026

Aim

Social Studies in Waterway Primary School aims to develop students into informed, concerned and participative citizens, competent in decision-making with an impassioned spirit to contribute responsibly to the society and world they live in.

Vision

A school of students deeply engaged in growing knowledge, developing skills and learning values through examining issues that are of concern to our society and the world in which we live.

Circular diagram with a world map center reading "Students as Informed, Concerned and Participative Citizens" surrounded by educational skill labels.

Our Social Studies programmes follows the thematic approach of the Social Studies Primary Syllabus and separated into three broad clusters as described below:

· Cluster 1: Discovering Self and Immediate Environment

Students will explore who they are and the roles they play in relation to the people and places around them. They will also explore the customs and traditions of some communities in Singapore. Students will not only come to appreciate the cultural diversity in Singapore but also learn how common experiences help unite us as a nation.

· Cluster 2: Understanding Singapore in the Past and Present

Students will learn about Singapore and the contributions of different groups of people to the country’s growth and independence. They will develop an appreciation of Singapore and come to value the adaptability, resilience and resourcefulness of its leaders and people.

· Cluster 3: Appreciating Singapore, the Region and the World We Live In

Students will learn about Singapore as a nation and the contributions of different people to its development. They will also develop an understanding of Southeast Asia, Singapore’s connections with the region as well as legacies of civilizations in the world that can still be seen today.

Table showing three study clusters, six primary levels, and corresponding inquiry focus questions for Singapore education.

Some activities to engage students in Social Studies

Two masked students in white uniforms sit at a desk with a purple counting tray and an open book.

P5 students playing congkak as part of learning about games commonly played in Southeast Asia.

Two masked primary school children in uniforms sanitize hands in a colorful classroom with other students seated nearby.

P3 students upcycling an old t-shirt into a reusable bag.