Unit 6: Education in the United States

What an American Student Learns

Learning Computer

American students pass through several levels of schooling—and thus, several curricula—on their way to a high school diploma. They attend:

Elementary School. In statistical reports published by the federal government, "elementary school" usually means grades kindergarten(K) through 8. But in some places, the elementary school includes only grades K—6. And sometimes grades 4, 5 and 6 make up what is called a "middle grade" school.(Many Americans refer to the elementary grades as "grammar school.")

Secondary School. Again, in statistical reports, "secondary school" generally means grades 9-12. These grades are popularly called "high school." However, in many districts, "junior high school" includes grades 7 * 9. And when grades 7 * 9 are included with the 10th, 11th and 12th grades, all six are said to form a "senior high school."

Although there is no national curriculum in the United States, certain subjects are taught in all K to 12 systems across the country.

Almost every elementary school provides instruction in these subjects: mathematics; language arts (subject that includes reading, grammar, composition and literature); penmanship; science; social studies (a subject that includes history, geography, citizenship and economics); music; art; and

Drama

physical education. In many elementary schools, courses in the use of computers have been introduced. And in some cases, a second language (other than English) is offered in the upper elementary grades.

Most secondary schools offer the same "core" of required subjects: English, mathematics, science, social studies and physical education. But school boards differ greatly from one district to another in the amount of class time they want high school students to spend on these basic subjects. In some high schools, for example, students must complete three years of mathematics before graduation. The national average is lower.

Students are guided by school counselors in choosing electives, which can range from specialized academic to vocational subjects.

For example, high schools offer more than one year—in most cases, several years—of math, science and the other core subjects. After they complete the required units in these core areas (for example, one year of American history), students can take additional units as electives (perhaps a year of European history and a year of world political issues).

Other elective courses vary from school to school. Some high schools specialize in particular types of subjects—business education, or industrial trades, or foreign languages, for example. A student planning to be a physician would want to attend a school offering many electives in science.

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