Sweden Mellanstadiet School Syllabus - Mathematics

This information is derived from the Swedish National Agency for Education (Skolverket) curriculum, revised in 2018.

Overall Aim of Mathematics Education

Mathematics education aims to develop students' knowledge of mathematics and its practical applications in daily life and across various subjects. It seeks to foster an interest in mathematics, build confidence in using it in diverse contexts, and allow students to appreciate the aesthetic qualities found in mathematical patterns, forms, and relationships. The curriculum emphasizes problem-solving, reflection, evaluation of strategies, and the use of mathematical language to interpret and describe real-life situations. It also incorporates digital tools and programming to enhance mathematical exploration, calculations, and data presentation. A historical perspective on mathematical concepts is also included.

Core Content for Mellanstadiet (Years 4-6)

• Understanding and Use of Numbers: This section covers rational numbers and their properties, the decimal system, the binary system (and its application in digital technology), fractions, decimals, percentages, and methods for approximation, mental arithmetic, written calculations, and the use of digital tools. It also includes assessing the reasonableness of calculations in everyday situations.
• Algebra: Students will explore unknown numbers, simple algebraic expressions and equations, methods for solving equations, patterns in number sequences and geometric patterns, algorithm creation, and visual programming environments.
• Geometry: This area focuses on basic geometric shapes (polygons, circles, spheres, cones, cylinders, pyramids, cuboids) and their properties, constructing geometric objects (with and without digital tools), scale, symmetry, methods for determining circumference and area, and measurement of length, area, volume, mass, time, and angles using common units.
• Probability and Statistics: Students will learn about probability, chance, and risk through observations, simulations, and statistical material. Simple combinatorial analysis, tables, diagrams, and digital tools will be used for data interpretation, along with measures of central tendency (average, mode, median).
• Relationships and Change: This section explores proportionality, percentages, graphs, and the coordinate system.
• Problem Solving: Students will develop strategies for mathematical problem-solving in everyday situations and learn to formulate mathematical questions based on real-life scenarios.

Knowledge Requirements by the End of Year 6

The curriculum outlines specific knowledge requirements for different grade levels (A-E), assessing students' abilities to solve problems, use mathematical concepts, apply methods, reason mathematically, and communicate their understanding. These requirements emphasize the progression from basic to more advanced skills and understanding throughout the Mellanstadiet years. They cover various aspects, including problem-solving strategies, knowledge of mathematical concepts, application of methods for calculations and routine tasks, mathematical reasoning, and the use of mathematical language and expressions. The requirements also consider the use of diagrams, symbols, tables, graphs, and other forms of representation.