Simple Curriculum Overview

Summarizing the typical subjects and curriculum for each school year:

  • Preschool/Kindergarten:

  • Focus: Early literacy, numeracy, social skills, and play-based learning.

  • Subjects: Basic math, language arts, art, music, and physical education.

  • Elementary School (Grades 1-5):

  • Core Subjects: Math, English language arts (ELA), science, and social studies.

  • Additional Subjects: Art, music, physical education, and sometimes languages.

  • Curriculum: Building foundational skills, exploring various topics, fostering creativity, and languages.

  • Middle School (Grades 6-8):

  • Core Subjects: Math, English language arts (ELA), science, and social studies.

  • Electives: Students choose from a range of subjects (e.g., computer science, drama, or home economics).

  • Curriculum: Expanding knowledge, critical thinking, and preparing for high school.

  • High School (Grades 9-12):

  • Core Subjects: Math, English language arts (ELA), science, and social studies.

  • Electives: Wide variety (e.g., psychology, economics, or culinary arts).

  • Advanced Placement (AP) Courses: College-level classes for motivated students.

  • Curriculum: Preparing for college or career, specialization, and independent research.

In the UK

The national curriculum is a set of standards and disciplines that are taught in primary and secondary schools to ensure that students receive an identical education. It covers the subjects taught and the benchmarks kids should meet in each subject.

Academies and private schools, among other school kinds, are exempt from having to adhere to the national curriculum. A wide-ranging and well-rounded curriculum that covers science, maths and English must be taught in academies. Along with religious education, they also have to teach relationships and sex education.


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