HOTS English Primary 3 Comprehension

Read the passage and answer the question.\n\nIn the 1960s, Singapore faced a severe housing shortage. Hundreds of thousands of people lived in overcrowded slums with poor sanitation. The government, through the Housing Development Board (HDB), launched an ambitious programme to build public housing flats. By 1985, over 80% of the population lived in HDB flats. Today, Singapore is often cited as one of the most successful public housing programmes in the world. Critics, however, note that the uniformity of HDB design can limit community diversity and personal expression.\n\nWhich statement best reflects a balanced view of Singapore's public housing programme?

A Singapore's HDB programme has failed to solve the housing shortage.
B HDB housing has been highly successful in providing homes but may have trade-offs in community diversity.
C All Singaporeans prefer HDB flats to private housing.
D The HDB programme should be ended because it limits personal expression.
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Worked Solution

Step 1: The question asks for a BALANCED view — one that acknowledges both success and concerns. Step 2: The passage presents two sides: (1) highly successful programme (80% housed, internationally cited); (2) critics note uniformity may limit diversity and expression. Step 3: A balanced view acknowledges both the success AND the trade-offs. Answer: HDB housing has been highly successful in providing homes but may have trade-offs in community diversity.

Correct answer: HDB housing has been highly successful in providing homes but may have trade-offs in community diversity.

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