The emergence of a highly competitive and integrated economy, rapid scientific and technologicalinnovations, and a growing knowledge base will continue to have a profound impact on our lives. In orderto meet the challenges posed by these developments, Chemistry, like other science electives, will provide aplatform for developing scientific literacy and for building essential scientific knowledge and skills forlifelong learning in science and technology.
Chemistry deals with the composition, structures and properties of matter, the interactions betweendifferent types of matter, and the relationship between matter and energy. Through the learning ofchemistry, it is possible to acquire relevant conceptual and procedural knowledge. A study of chemistryalso helps to develop understanding and appreciation of developments in engineering, medicine and otherrelated scientific and technological fields.
Furthermore, learning about the contributions, issues and problems related to innovations in chemistry willhelp students develop an understanding of the relationship between science, technology, society and theenvironment.
The curriculum attempts to make the study of chemistry exciting and relevant. It is suggested that thelearning of chemistry be situated in real-life contexts. The adoption of a range of such contexts togetherwith a range of learning and teaching strategies and assessment practices is intended to appeal to studentsof all abilities and aspirations, and to stimulate interest and motivation for learning. Students are expectedto be able to apply their knowledge of chemistry, to appreciate the relationship between chemistry andother disciplines, to be aware of the science-technology-society-environment (STSE) connections withincontemporary issues, and to become responsible citizens.