Choosing Between The Integrated Programme And The ‘O’ Levels
The Integrated Programme (IP) and the Singapore-Cambridge General Certificate of Education Ordinary Level ('O' level') are both exams that secondary school students take to qualify for the GCE Advanced Level ('A' level) or the International Baccalaureate (IB). The 'O' level pathway is more generally known, as most students go through it.
However, there is also an option for students in Secondary 3 to opt for IP instead with satisfactory grades. It is also possible for students who have completed their PSLE to enter the IP with good performance. If you have just learned about the Integrated Programme and need clarification about which route your child should pursue, here are some benefits of the IP and how it differs from taking the 'O' level pathway.
What are the differences between IP and 'O' levels?
The IP is a programme aimed at the top ten per cent of students who take their PSLE, and it is a six-year programme that will see students skipping the 'O' levels and moving straight to the 'A' levels or IB.
The Integrated Programme uses a unique and flexible curriculum that focuses on the holistic development of students. It gives students more time to develop their skills and broaden their intellect. Instead of studying rigorously for the 'O level' exams, the IP has a progressive series of assignments and exams to determine the program's results, like a university.
How can the IP benefit your child?
The absence of the 'O' levels means you can have more time to broaden your knowledge in both academic and co-curricular aspects. The IP also allows your child to stay ahead of their peers, as they will be learning topics of a higher level at a much faster rate, which will help enhance their critical thinking and decision-making skills.
The IP also allows for more flexibility in its schedule and gives your child time to participate in other enriching activities for holistic learning. They will be able to learn electives such as public speaking, psychology, and many more that will provide them with knowledge and life skills.
Furthermore, they have more chances to be involved in extra-curricular activities in school and pursue their interests outside of academics. They will be given plenty of great opportunities to be involved in the planning and execution of events for the school, and their community, which will teach them skills such as time management, communication, and accountability.
Conclusion
The Integrated Programme can be an excellent educational pathway for your child if they can quickly adapt to different learning styles. The IP curriculum is highly flexible and has a lesser structure to it. Therefore, your child must be independent and resourceful in their learning. If your child lacks discipline in studies, it may be time to send your child for tuition. Glenn Lee Learning Centre is a leading tuition services provider that believes in instilling the right mindset in students towards school. Our services include PSLE, 'N' level and 'O' level tuition in Singapore, and we teach math, science and additional mathematics tuition for all levels. Contact us today to learn more about our wide range of tuition services!