Swedish Mellanstadiet (Grade 4) School Syllabus - Chemistry

The Swedish curriculum for grades 4-6 integrates chemistry within the broader subject of "Science Studies." In these years, the core content for chemistry focuses on introducing students to basic chemical concepts and their presence in everyday life.

Chemistry in Nature (Years 4-6):

• A simplified particle model is introduced to explain the structure, recycling, and indestructibility of matter. Students learn about the movement of particles and how it explains the transitions between solids, liquids, and gases.
• Students learn about the classification of substances and materials based on observable properties like appearance, conductivity, solubility, combustibility, and acidity.
• The curriculum covers water, its properties, and its circulation in nature.
• Students learn about the properties and composition of air.
• Photosynthesis and combustion are introduced as examples of basic chemical reactions.

Chemistry in Everyday Life and Society (Years 4-6):

• The curriculum explores the conversion of materials from raw resources to products, their eventual disposal as waste, and their return to nature.
• Students learn about the contents of food and the importance of nutrients for health. They also explore historical and contemporary methods of food preservation.
• Common chemicals found in homes and society are studied, including their uses, impact on health and the environment, labeling, and safe handling procedures.
• Fossil and renewable fuels are introduced, along with their roles in energy consumption and their impact on the climate.