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From September 1996, Government will reinforce learning in these areas through the introduction of a new set of Guidelines on Civic Education which is now under public consultation. One of the five areas in the suggested curriculum framework is on China. This will enhance the students' understanding of Chinese culture and Chinese history, and give them a
better knowledge of China's political, economic and administrative systems.
To support teaching of these areas, the Education Department will provide teaching kits to schools on different aspects of China from the school year 1996/97. These will be supplemented by Education Television Programmes covering a range of topics on Chinese society and culture.
We will implement additional measures to promote civic education in both primary and secondary schools. Specifically at primary level, we will introduce a new core subject of General Studies in the 1996/97 school year.
It aims to equip our primary children with the basic knowledge relating to the individual, family, society, and science and technology; and to develop in them study and life skills, problem solving capability and analytical thinking. At Primary 5 and 6, the content extends from the individual and the society to Hong Kong, China and the world as a whole.
Under the proposed new Guidelines on Civic Education, emphasis will be put on promoting our students' critical thinking. In handling a topic on civic education, school teachers will be advised to present different views and to assist students to discover and evaluate their own values through reflection. At primary level, the teaching objectives will progress from helping students to recognise their role within the school, family and community to developing their concern for major events in Hong Kong, China and the world.
To prepare teachers to implement the new Guidelines on Civic Education through classroom teaching and extra-curricular activities, we will organise in-service teacher training starting around May 1996.