FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
SIGN-UP related information
1. When do I sign up for the DOTS Programme?
There are 2 sign-up sessions, one in May (for Secondary One students only) and one in October (for both Secondary One and Two students).
2. How do I sign up for the DOTS Programme?
More information on how to sign up will be given during the publicity talks in May and October.
3. I have already signed up for a subject, can I change it?
Once you have signed up, and are selected, you are required to commit to that programme. You can change your subject after your commitment periods ends.
For information on commitment periods, please refer to the section on Commitment below.
4. Is it compulsory to sign up for DOTS programme?
DOTS programme are opportunities for students who are keen to develop their areas of interest and learn how they can use their talent to help others.
5. If I am not good at an area but is interested, can I still sign up for it?
Yes! Developing your talent begins with you being curious and interested in something.
LEAPS
1. What LEAPS points can we attain if we participate in DOTS activities?
For participation in DOTS activities and competitions - your will obtain points for ENRICHMENT.
For achievements in competitions, you will obtain points for ACHIEVEMENT.
For DOTS activities under GLOW, you will be awarded SERVICE hours.
2. Where will my participation in DOTS activities be reflected?
Your participation in DOTS activities is reflected in the CCA certificate, as well as in the testimonial you will receive when you graduate from SMSS.
STUDENT INITIATED LEARNING (SIL)
1. Can my DOTS project be counted towards my SIL?
For Secondary 2 DOTS students, your DOTS projects can be counted towards your Secondary 2 SIL.
PROGRAMME INFORMATION
1. What are the different programmes/competitions for the various subjects?
Please refer to the respective subject pages in the website for more information.
2. Are there activities for VIA?
DOTS activities under GLOW are inclusive of the service component and you may earn VIA hours by participating in these GLOW activities.
3. What is the difference between DOTS music programme and Music Elective Programme (MEP)?
For DOTS music programme, your participation takes the form of enrichment.
For MEP, you will be learning music as an O-level examination subject.
4. Is there a specific day set aside for DOTS programme activities?
Wednesdays have been set aside for DOTS programme activities, but some activities/competitions may require more commitment.
COMMITMENT
1. How long must I commit to the DOTS Programme?
Secondary 1: Up to the end of Secondary 2.
Secondary 2: Up to the end of Secondary 3.
Note that there will not be activities all the time in the whole year. The timing of activities depends on the DOTS programme you have signed up for. Please check with your DOTS teacher-in-charge for details.
2. Before the mid-year DOTS sign-up, I signed up for the Community In Nature (CIN) workshop. Am I committed to it for 2 years?
No. You can still sign up for, and participate in other DOTS activities/competitions.
3. How many days in a week will I be expected to set aside for the DOTS Programme?
DOTS workshops/activities are usually scheduled for Wednesdays. You may need to meet for activities on other days, but this will not happen every week.