Humanities
Discover how Woodlands Secondary develops critical thinkers and inquiring minds through a progressive Humanities curriculum - Geography, History, and Social Studies - that builds skills, global awareness, and empathy.
Woodlanders conducting fieldwork as part of their Geographical Investigation - collecting data and making observations beyond the classroom.
Woodlanders at the National War & Diplomacy History Card Game Challenge 2025 - learning history through strategy, collaboration, and a little friendly competition.
At Woodlands Secondary, we believe that every Woodlander is a critical thinker with an inquiring mind, ready to serve society. The Humanities subjects consisting of Geography, History, and Social Studies, open doors to understanding the world, its people, and the forces that shape our lives.
Through investigation, discovery, and real-world connections, we nurture students who are curious about the past, engaged with the present, and prepared to contribute to a better future.
Our Approach
We recognise that Humanities subjects are new to many Secondary 1 students. Our approach helps Woodlanders grow progressively in their skills and confidence.
Description of teaching and learning approaches
Progressive Skills Development | Thinking skills are developed systematically from Sec 1 to Sec 4, building a strong foundation for deeper learning. |
Tapping on Daily Experiences | Lessons are anchored in students' day-to-day experiences to build interest and make learning relevant. |
Investigation and Discovery | Students learn through inquiry, exploration, and critical thinking -developing a lifelong love for learning. |
Key Programmes
Growing All Woodlanders
1) Geography
Programme | Description |
|---|---|
Experiential Learning | Hands-on activities that bring Geography to life |
Geographical Investigation | Conducted at all levels to develop inquiry skills |
Simulations | Card game lessons that make learning interactive and engaging |
Virtual Field Trips | Using Google Cardboard VR Goggles to explore the world from the classroom |
2) History
Programme | Description |
|---|---|
Collaborative Learning | Students work together to develop skills and deepen understanding |
Comparison of Sources | Using Venn Diagrams to analyse and compare various historical sources |
Inference Detective Card Game | A fun and engaging way to develop inference skills |
Perspective Taking | Students explore different viewpoints on historical events |
Lego Museum | Upper Sec students explore War in Europe events through hands-on model-building |
Inquiry-Based Learning | Projects on Hitler's rule that develop research and critical thinking skills |
3) Social Studies
Programme | Description |
|---|---|
Collaborative & Self-Directed Learning | Students engage in Issues Investigation scenarios for Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL) |
ICT-Enhanced Learning | Self-directed playlists using Nearpod and Edpuzzle for videos and resources |
Cohort Activities | Sec 3 students self-explore the topic of Diversity through structured activities |
Stretching Those with Strong Interests
1) Geography
Programme | Description |
|---|---|
NUS Geography Challenge | A prestigious national competition for Geography enthusiasts |
Full Geography Option | Available at Upper Secondary for students with a strong interest |
2) History
Programme | Description |
|---|---|
NLB Historical Investigation Challenge | A lower secondary competition that develops research and inquiry skills |
Model UN Participation | Upper Secondary students engage in global discussions and diplomacy |
3) Social Studies
Programme | Description |
|---|---|
Model UN Participation | Upper Secondary students engage in global discussions and diplomacy |
What Students Gain
Through their Humanities journey, Woodlanders develop:
Critical thinking – Ability to analyse, evaluate, and form reasoned viewpoints
Inquiry skills – Confidence in asking questions and seeking answers
Global awareness – Understanding of diverse cultures, histories, and contemporary issues
Empathy – Appreciation for different perspectives and experiences
Communication skills – Articulating ideas clearly and persuasively