Who's afraid of the O levels?

The history of exam hell from ancient Chinese times to today shows that if at first you fail, try, try and try again

Cultures are not monolithic, yet what first comes to mind when we think "Tiger Mother"?

I wager many would see Chinese mums hovering over, worrying, harassing their children about schoolwork. "Nothing less than an A. Understand?!"

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on January 18, 2020, with the headline Who's afraid of the O levels?. Subscribe