Curriculum Time Spent on PSLE Preparation

36 Ms Eileen Chong Pei Shan asked the Minister for Education (a) what data the Ministry tracks on actual Primary 6 curriculum time spent on PSLE preparation, including studying of past papers and past questions, broken down by subject; (b) whether this has trended upwards or downwards since the removal of mid-year examinations; and (c) if no such data is collected, why not.

Mr Desmond Lee: The Ministry of Education (MOE) does not track actual curriculum time spent specifically on PSLE preparation but provides guidance to schools on the curriculum time needed for completing the syllabus. This ensures appropriate pacing and sufficient time for revision and familiarisation of examination formats. Schools plan the revision schedule based on their students' learning needs.

Since the progressive removal of the Mid-Year Examination for all primary levels, schools have used the freed-up time to provide more engaging learning experiences and for strengthening students' 21st Century Competencies. Schools are mindful not to conduct excessive preparation for the national examination, and this is aligned with efforts to reduce the over-emphasis on examination grades.

MOE will continue to guide schools on the use of curriculum time, while allowing local adjustments to better meet their students' needs.