Switzerland Secondary I (Years 7-9) - An Overview

The Swiss education system is decentralized, with each canton responsible for its own curriculum. However, the Swiss Conference of Cantonal Ministers of Education (EDK) provides a framework for harmonization. Lower secondary education (Secondary I) typically spans years 7-9, following primary school. In Ticino, lower secondary lasts four years (grades 6-9).

Lehrplan 21

Lehrplan 21 is the current curriculum framework for German-speaking and multilingual cantons in Switzerland. It aims to harmonize educational targets across cantons and is structured around three cycles:

• First Cycle: Kindergarten and grades 1-2
• Second Cycle: Grades 3-6 (primary level)
• Third Cycle: Grades 7-9 (lower secondary level)

Lehrplan 21 is a subject-area curriculum, outlining competence development across subjects from kindergarten through compulsory education.

Subjects in Secondary I (Third Cycle)

Subjects in Secondary I under Lehrplan 21 include:

• German
• First Foreign Language (regionally determined)
• Second Foreign Language (often English)
• Italian (in some regions)
• Mathematics
• Nature and Technology (including Physics, Chemistry, and Biology)
• Economics, World of Work, Nutrition
• Geography, History, and Civic Education
• Ethics, Religions, Community
• Art, Craft, and Design (Visual Arts/Textile and Technical Crafts)
• Music
• Physical Education
• Media and Informatics
• Vocational Orientation

Learning Approach

Lehrplan 21 emphasizes competence-based teaching, focusing on linking and applying knowledge, developing capabilities and skills, and fostering willingness and positive attitudes towards learning. It promotes a culture of feedback and assessment, while also acknowledging the role of grades in qualification and selection.

Chemistry in Secondary I

While Chemistry is part of the "Nature and Technology" subject area in Secondary I, a detailed syllabus outlining specific learning objectives for Chemistry was not found within the available resources. Further information may be available on specific cantonal websites.