Subject-Based Banding: Understand G1, G2, and G3

Starting with the 2024 Secondary 1 cohort, all students in Singapore will now experience the Full Subject-Based Banding (SBB) system. This exciting change is designed by MOE to cater to the diverse strengths and interests of students, making learning more personalized and effective.

What is Full Subject-Based Banding (SBB)?

Gone are the distinctions between Express, Normal Academic (NA), and Normal Technical (NT) streams. Instead, students will now take subjects at three different levels of proficiency: G1, G2, and G3. This approach allows every student to study at a level best suited to their abilities for each subject.

For example, some students may excel in Mathematics and Science (G3 level) while taking Humanities or Languages at G2 or G1. This flexibility ensures that learning is tailored to individual strengths, making education more inclusive and enriching.

Understanding G1, G2, and G3 Levels

Subjects are offered at three levels:

• G1 (Basic level)
• G2 (Intermediate level)
• G3 (Advanced level)

Initial Subject Levels

Students’ PSLE scores determine their Posting Group:

• Posting Group 1: Primarily G1 subjects.
• Posting Group 2: Primarily G2 subjects.
• Posting Group 3: Primarily G3 subjects.

However, students have the flexibility to adjust their subject levels throughout their secondary school journey. For instance:

• A student in Posting Group 2 may take G3 Mathematics if they demonstrate strong performance.
• Conversely, if a subject proves challenging, they may opt to study it at G1 for better understanding.

How SBB Works in Lower Secondary

In lower secondary, students explore a range of subjects, including Common Curriculum Subjects where students from all levels (G1, G2, and G3) mix in the same class. This promotes collaboration and builds friendships among peers with diverse strengths and interests.

Core SBB Examinable Subjects:

• English
• Mother Tongue
• Mathematics
• Science

Additionally, students study Humanities (Geography, History, Literature) at the basic level in Secondary 1, with the opportunity to specialize in a higher or lower level later.

Reflect and Adjust

At the end of Secondary 1, students are encouraged to reflect on their interests and strengths to decide which subjects to pursue at more demanding levels in Secondary 2 and beyond.

How SBB Works in Upper Secondary

From Secondary 3 onwards, students specialize further, taking electives like Additional Mathematics, Computing, Art, or POA. Subject levels (G1, G2, or G3) can still be adjusted based on performance in lower secondary.

For example:

• A student excelling in G1 Mathematics in lower secondary may move up to G2 or G3 in upper secondary.
• Students should also consider post-secondary requirements when choosing subject levels.

Examination Changes

Starting in 2027, all graduating students will take the Singapore-Cambridge Secondary Education Certificate (SEC) examinations at their respective subject levels. This fully replaces the previous O-Level and N-Level examinations.

• All students will sit for the same examination session but receive different papers for G1, G2, or G3 levels.
• English and Mother Tongue exams occur in September, while other subjects are held from October to November.

Post-Secondary Admissions under SBB

Junior College (JC) and Millennia Institute (MI)

The JC/MI admission process remains unchanged. Subject grades from G3 levels are used for computation.

Polytechnic Admissions

• To enter a polytechnic, students typically need at least five G3 subjects.
• From 2028, students can use four G3 subjects + one G2 subject for their ELR2B2 score (English, two Relevant subjects, two Best subjects). This provides more flexibility for polytechnic entry.

Polytechnic Foundation Programme (PFP)

The PFP, previously exclusive to NA students, is now more accessible:

• Students can qualify with a mix of G2 and G3 subjects.
• Starting from 2026, PFP adopts a cluster system:
  • Science
  • Design, Engineering, and Technology
  • Humanities, Art, Media, and Business

Institute of Technical Education (ITE)

ITE is transitioning to a three-year Higher Nitec program. Starting in 2028, students can:

• Enter Year 2 of Higher Nitec directly with a combination of G2 and G3 subjects.
• Progress to polytechnic smoothly if they achieve a GPA of 3.5/4 or higher.

Why Choose Daniel’s Math Tuition for SBB Success?

At Daniel’s Math Tuition, we understand that the transition to Full Subject-Based Banding and the G1-G3 system can be challenging. That’s why we offer specialized programs tailored to help students excel at every level:

1. Customized Lessons
   • Whether your child is taking G1, G2, or G3 Mathematics, our lessons are designed to build confidence and mastery at their pace.
2. Exam Preparation
   • Our classes focus on building strong foundations and excelling in SBB examinations, ensuring readiness for the SEC (Singapore-Cambridge Secondary Education Certificate) exams.
3. Support for Subject-Level Adjustments
   • If your child wishes to move from G2 to G3 Mathematics, we provide the guidance and resources needed to make that leap successfully.
4. Comprehensive Materials
   • We provide carefully curated materials and past-year exam papers to give students an edge in their studies.

Ready to Ace G3 and G2 Mathematics?

Navigating the new Full Subject-Based Banding system doesn’t have to be daunting. With our proven methods and dedicated tutors, your child can achieve their best in Mathematics, regardless of whether they’re studying at G1, G2, or G3 levels.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your child’s journey through secondary school:

WhatsApp: 80853940

Let’s unlock your child’s full potential in Mathematics!