Curriculum Specifications - CHEMISTRY Form 4 & Form 5

The aspiration of the nation to become an industrialised society depends on science and technology. It is envisaged that success in providing quality science education to Malaysians from an early age will serve to spearhead the nation into becoming a knowledge society and a competitive player in the global arena. Towards this end, the Malaysian education system is giving greater emphasis to science and mathematics education.

The Chemistry curriculum has been designed not only to provide opportunities for students to acquire science knowledge and skills, develop thinking skills and thinking strategies, and to apply this knowledge and skills in everyday life, but also to inculcate in them noble values and the spirit of patriotism. It is hoped that the educational process en route to achieving these aims would produce well-balanced citizens capable of contributing to the harmony and prosperity of the nation and its people.

The Chemistry curriculum aims at producing active learners. To this end, students are given ample opportunities to engage in scientific investigations through hands-on activities and experimentations. The inquiry approach, incorporating thinking skills, thinking strategies and thoughtful learning, should be emphasised throughout the teaching-learning process. The content and contexts suggested are chosen
based on their relevance and appeal to students so that their interest in the subject is enhanced.

In a recent development, the Government has made a decision to introduce English as the medium of instruction in the teaching and learning of science and mathematics. This measure will enable students to keep abreast of developments in science and technology in contemporary society by enhancing their capability and know-how to tap the diverse sources of information on science written in the English language. At the same time, this move would also provide opportunities for students to use the English language and hence, increase their proficiency in the language. Thus, in implementing the science curriculum, attention is given to developing students’ ability to use English for study and communication, especially in the early years of learning.

The development of this curriculum and the preparation of the corresponding Curriculum Specifications have been the work of many individuals over a period of time. To all those who have contributed in one way or another to this effort, may I, on behalf of the Ministry of Education, express my sincere gratitude and thanks for the time and labour expended.

(MAHZAN BIN BAKAR SMP, AMP)
Director
Curriculum Development Centre
Ministry of Education Malaysia
{Pusat Perkembangan Kurikumlum}