Subjects taught in German Schools
Learn more about the general subjects in Germany
Subjects taught in German schools differ at each level. For example, students at the Realschule level will study a range of subjects (computer science, mathematics, a foreign language, etc.) while also achieving an established academic level.
The difference is that this kind of school's culminating diploma will be known as the Realschulabschluss and this will qualify to graduate students to take vocational qualifications, training courses, or apprenticeships in, for example, commercial trade or a medical profession.
However, these students still have the opportunity to transfer to the Gymnasium for their final two years if they're set on attending university. Education in Germany is designed in such a way that it depends on which secondary schools one attends in order to receive higher studies later on. Nevertheless, most German schools allow students to transfer within the system and attend a school whose final examination will give them a university entrance qualification. This means that higher study institutions in Germany are open to all German students within the German education system.
What subjects are taught in German schools?
This depends on which secondary school the student has chosen and where in the country they're located. In general, education at the Gymnasium level (required for those planning to attend tertiary education, i.e. university) covers a broad range of subjects.
Students are opting for 32-40 hours of lessons a week, plus additional homework. They'll be studying a variety of subjects, usually including a second foreign language from a pick of English, French, Spanish, Latin, and more. There are also sports, music, drama and art lessons. "Honors" courses in Germany are known as Leistungskurse. Students at other secondary schools have the same subjects, but usually learn only one foreign language and school attendance is shorter. While students attend a Gymnasium for 8 to 9 years, they attend a Realschule or another comprehensive school for two years less. By the way, school attendance is compulsory and students who skip classes receive a reprimand.
Is Homeschooling illegal in Germany?
Yes, homeschooling in Germany is considered illegal because students must attend school from 6 to 15 years of age. The German education system requires that all children attend a school, whether it is a primary school, a secondary school, an international school, or a private school.
What is the Grading System in German Schools?
The grading system in Germany runs on a scale from 1 to 6. The highest is 1 or sehr gut ("very good"). This is an outstanding achievement. An average score is 2,6 to 3,5, or befriedigend, which is 'satisfactory'.
