Applied Learning Programme (ALP)

The Applied Learning Programme (ALP) develops student interest in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) and helps students connect and apply academic knowledge and skills in authentic settings based on the theme Sustainability.

Programme Outcomes

Having a basic knowledge of STEAM will open up options for students to pursue courses and careers that are related to science, engineering, technology and design. Hence, the ALP is developed with the following objectives:

• To imbue in students a scientific mind-set and to equip them with foundational experimental skills

• To expose students to different areas of science and technology through hands-on activities

• To allow students to gain an understanding and appreciation of the scientific advancement in the area of STEAM

Programme and Key Activities

The ALP in BLS is organised in two tiers. The Tier 1 programme is a 10-hour programme comprising a set of computational thinking workshop for all Secondary 1, and application of ALP skill and knowledge in VIA projects for all Secondary 2 students. Through these modules, students acquire basic coding knowledge and develop STE(A)M-related skills, communication and collaborative skills, critical thinking and creativity.

Selected Secondary 2 and 3 students interested in pursuing their interest and developing their STE(A)M-related skills are identified for the Tier 2 programme, where they have opportunities to deepen and broaden their knowledge in the field and are challenged to apply their knowledge in projects and competitions. Students will also be invited for industry visits and have opportunities to interact with professionals in the field.

Applied Learning Framework

Our ALP curriculum is guided by our 3’A’ Framework – Acquisition, Appreciation and Application. Using an inquiry-based approach, students acquire (i) knowledge on a diverse range of materials through hands-on activities, group discussions, online research, as well as the (ii) problem solving and experimental skills required for them to carry out sound scientific investigations. Through mini-research projects, students are kept abreast with the developments in the field of Materials Science, and at the same time develop an appreciation for the innovative use of materials in everyday life. Design challenges provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to improve on existing products or to invent new ones.

Our ALP curriculum is guided by our 3’A’ Framework – Acquisition, Appreciation and Application. Using an inquiry-based approach, students acquire (i) knowledge on a range of science and coding skills through hands-on activities, group discussions, online research, as well as the (ii) problem solving and experimental skills required for them to carry out sound scientific investigations.  Through mini-research projects, students are kept abreast with the developments in the field of STE(A)M, and at the same time develop an appreciation for the innovative use of STE(A)M in everyday life.  Design challenges provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to improve on existing products or to invent new ones.

Programme Summary (Tier 1)

Students will engage in self-reflection to identify their strengths and areas of improvement in the following domains viz. communication skills, collaborative skills, critical thinking and creativity. During lessons, students will also be tasked to provide constructive peer critiques on one another’s presentations and performance.

Programme Summary (Tier 2)