What are the functions and roles of government in working for the good of society?
G3 Social Studies - syllabus K336 (Social Studies component), 2027
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Follow how laws are made, put into practice and applied in court. Explain how these actions serve people's needs and the country's interests.
- Representative democracy
Citizens elect representatives to make public decisions on their behalf. Representatives raise concerns, debate proposals and ask ministers to explain their actions.
- Functions and roles
A function is what an institution does. A role is the public purpose its work serves. Explain the connection between the action and the purpose.
- Making and passing laws
Singapore's legislature comprises the President and Parliament. A proposed law must go through the lawmaking process; announcing a proposal does not make it an enforceable rule.
- Implementing and enforcing laws
The executive puts policies and laws into practice. Implementation organises how a measure works. Enforcement checks whether people follow legal requirements and responds when they break them.
- Interpreting and applying laws
The judiciary decides cases by interpreting the law and applying it to the evidence. A court's task is to reach a lawful decision, not to follow the most popular view.
- Maintaining law and order
Law and order protects people from harm and provides lawful ways to resolve disputes. It depends on clear rules, effective action and fair application of the law.
- Economic and social well-being
Government supports people's ability to earn a living and their quality of life through conditions for work, public services and help with essential needs. Economic growth alone does not show that everyone is doing well.
- Promoting and protecting national interests
National interests include a country's security, independence and long-term prosperity. Government uses cooperation, diplomacy and defence to pursue them.
These sources were written for this chapter's practice questions.