AY2022 Regular Class FAQ

Q: What Differentiates Germinate’s Science Curriculum from others? 

Our curriculum is developed by our Principal and former experienced PSLE Science Marker Jayce Or, who has used his effective and accessible C3 pedagogy to help hundreds of students unlock abstract Science concepts easily and relevantly. 

Teacher Jayce, affectionately known as “Science Dad Sg” is a father of 6 lovely children and a passionate Science educator. He is also the author of My Pals Are Here! Science Tests XTRA P5&6, and a post-graduate alumnus of the prestigious Graduate School of Education, Melbourne University bringing over 20 years of teaching experience in MOE & private institutions under his belt. The curriculum is focuses on engaging each child with the fascination and appreciation for Science, helping them see the textbook concepts come “alive” by connecting them with real world relevance and applications. This motivates many of our students to transform from disliking Science to enjoying it! Read more of our student and parent’s testimonials here! 

 

Q: What are Weekly Regular Classes like?

Germinate Regular Classes are structured weekly programs spanning 36-40 weeks which aim to equip students with the relevant Science conceptual knowledge amidst a strong process skills framework in accordance with the requirements of the MOE Science Syllabus. The lessons are conducted either online or in hybrid delivery format for selected levels.

Additionally, the emphasis here is on building a strong foundation in loving and appreciating Science in tandem with meeting the rigour and demands of the PSLE Science Syllabus. Our focus in to help students plug gaps which schools may not necessarily have time to teach. Our lessons follow the C3 pedagogical framework for teaching Science: by engaging students in learning science concepts, trying out concrete hands on activities and connecting this with real-life applications of science on a weekly basis. 

 

Q: Our Values and Teaching Philosophy 

The Germinate Team is committed to make Science accessible and interesting; teaching Heart Science” not “Hard Science.” 

We believe that a love for Science can be sustained by teaching Science beyond mere “textbook” knowledge and this motivates and prepares children for a lifetime of appreciation in their academic journey. We do not screen students and try to help each child that comes to us through our programme.

 

Q. What other programs do you have besides weekly regular classes? 

During the school holiday period, we run our premier Germinate Masterclasses. These are intensive classes which focus on specific skillsets e.g. answering technique, concept mastery which aim to plug gaps in student learning in an effective and focused manner. 

Germinate Masterclasses are conducted seasonally during school holiday periods. These masterclasses typically range from 3-8 hour sessions and are usually held in central locations or online. 

Q: What’s the difference between Germinate Regular Group Classes and Germinate Masterclasses?

A: Germinate Regular Classes are structured weekly programs spanning 36-40 weeks which aim to equip students with the relevant content knowledge amidst a strong process skills framework in accordance with the requirements of the MOE Science Syllabus. The emphasis here is on building a strong foundation in loving and appreciating Science in tandem with meeting the demands of the PSLE Science syllabus. Our students will engage in the learning of science concepts, concrete with quizzes, videos, demonstrations and connect with real life applications of science on a weekly basis.

Germinate Masterclasses are intensive classes which focus on specific skillsets e.g. answering technique, concept mastery which aim to plug gaps in student learning in an effective and focused manner. Germinate Masterclasses are conducted seasonally during school holiday periods. These masterclasses typically range from 4-8 hour sessions and are usually held in central locations. 

 

Q: How will I know which program is suitable for my child?

 A: Generally speaking, regular classes are paced out in terms of the delivery and intensive classes are targeted and focused to plug gaps within a short time period. Largely, it depends on how your child learns best. Both programs can benefit both weaker and stronger students as our proprietary techniques have helped students across all bands in increasing their confidence and love for the subject.

 

Q: How are the fees computed for the Germinate Regular Class Program?

Germinate regular group class are billed termly, prior to the commencement of the term at the rates below: 

P3 & P4 2022: $60 for 1h 30min lesson

P5 & P6 2022: $75 for 1h 45min lesson

Germinate’s course terms comprise the following four terms in the academic year:

Primary 3-5 (40 lessons)

  • Term 1: 26 Dec 2021 – 12 Mar 2022 (10 lessons)
  • Term 2: 13 Mar – 21 May 2022 (10 lessons)
  • Term 3: 23 May – 13 Aug 2022 (10 lessons)
  • Term 4: 14 Aug – 22 Oct 2022 (10 lessons)

Primary 6 (36 lessons)

  • Term 1: 26 Dec 2021 – 12 Mar 2022 (10 lessons)
  • Term 2: 13 Mar – 21 May 2022 (10 lessons)
  • Term 3: 23 May – 13 Aug 2022 (10 lessons)
  • Term 4: 14 Aug – 24 Sep 2022 (6 lessons)

Our lessons run throughout the school holidays with the following term breaks:

30 Jan – 5 Feb 2022 (1 week)
29 May – 11 Jun 2022 (2 weeks)

 

Q: What is the class size for your Regular Group Class?

A: Maximum class size range from 12-15 students, depending on the venue/delivery mode.

 

Q: Do you have trial classes for your Regular Group Class?

A: Yes, we understand that it is important to have a good fit among the teacher, student and even parent. We welcome new students to join us for a trial class before signing up. Trial class is chargeable at regular fees of $60 for P3/P4 and $75 for P5/P6.

We do appreciate your understanding that the availability of trial classes is subjected to our discretion based on class schedules/sizes and should not be disruptive to our existing students.

 

Q: Why do we have to sign up for at least a term?

A: In Germinate, we believe that learning is a lifelong process.

It is important to give the teacher and student some time to get accustomed to both teaching and learning styles before we can reaped the best result in this learning journey.

Hence we require a minimum on one term enrollment or more to be able to see the progress in your child.

 

Q: How are the charges like and is there any discount if we sign up for more classes?

A: We tier our pricing based on the regular fees for the usual 10 lessons. Do contact us if you intend to sign up for more than 20 lessons, to enjoy a package discount.

We may offer promotional course fee/package during the academic year.

Please note that such fees and packages apply strictly to the promotional period and will be subject to change and/or revert to usual program fees AFTER the stated promotional period is over. You will enjoy more savings the earlier you sign up for our classes.

 

Q: The term has already started. Can my child still join your regular class? How is the fee going to be like?

A: Yes, your child can join our regular class mid-term and we will prorate the fees accordingly.

 

Q: How do I proceed with the payment?

A: We will send you a class offer with fee details and payment modes.

 

Q: How do I get the confirmation for the sign up?

A: A confirmation email will be sent to you within the next 3 working days.