Switzerland Cycle d'Orientation: Physics

The Cycle d'Orientation (CO) is the lower secondary level of education in Switzerland, typically spanning ages 12 to 15 (grades 7-9). It bridges primary school and upper secondary education, aiming to provide a well-rounded education and guide students towards appropriate academic or vocational pathways. The curriculum is managed at the cantonal level, with the Plan d'études romand (PER) serving as a common framework for French-speaking cantons. While a single, comprehensive physics syllabus document isn't readily available, the following information outlines the structure of the CO and the place of physics within the sciences.

Structure of the Cycle d'Orientation:

The CO typically lasts three years, encompassing grades 9CO, 10CO, and 11CO. It provides a foundational education across various subjects, including languages, mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, and the arts. The CO aims to prepare students for different upper secondary options, such as academic "gymnasium" leading to university, or vocational programs.

Natural Sciences in the Cycle d'Orientation:

Natural sciences play a significant role in the CO curriculum, introducing students to fundamental concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics. The PER outlines the overarching goals and principles for science education, emphasizing inquiry-based learning, experimentation, and the development of scientific literacy.

Physics in the Cycle d'Orientation:

Physics instruction within the CO builds upon the primary school science foundation, delving deeper into concepts related to motion, forces, energy, and matter. The specific topics and depth of coverage vary between cantons, reflecting local adaptations of the PER. For example, the canton of Geneva has its own implementation of the PER, and details about the physics curriculum can be found on the websites of individual schools or the Department of Public Instruction (DIP).

Finding Cantonal-Specific Information:

For detailed information about the physics curriculum in a specific canton, it is recommended to consult the following resources:

  • Cantonal Departments of Education: Each canton has its own department of education, which oversees the implementation of the curriculum. Their websites often contain information about the CO and subject-specific curricula.
  • CIIP (Centre intercantonal d'information sur les programmes): The CIIP website hosts resources related to the PER, including some cantonal adaptations.
  • Individual Schools: Many CO schools publish information about their specific curriculum on their websites.

This structure provides a general overview of physics within the Cycle d'Orientation. Due to the decentralized nature of the Swiss education system, finding specific syllabus documents requires further exploration of cantonal and school-level resources.

Congratulations, you are the winner for the week! 
We will be in touch via email!
Thank you for your participation!
Try again next time. Follow us on social media to know when the next hunt is!
You’ve found the monster!
Find two more.
You’ve found the monster!
Find one more.