A Study on the Goals of Mandatory Subjects in Upper Secondary Schools in Sweden : With Respect to National Tests on Mathematics

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to clarify the goals of the common courses in upper secondary schools in Sweden. In this study, mathematics was analyzed because mathematical abilities differ according to the students. First, the national curriculum, syllabi, and grading criteria of a common course, mathematics A, were analyzed because they represent the Swedish idea of "knowledge" and the goals of the course. However, these goals are abstract; hence, the questions in the national tests help teachers understand what the students should learn. These questions and assessments were then analyzed to reveal the ability of successful students. It was found that the goals of mathematics A involve not only learning mathematical concepts and theories but also "applying" them in daily life or in vocational contexts. The relevance to daily life is needed not only in such contexts but also for problem solving. Moreover, the questions require students not only to calculate or use a mathematical formula in a simple problem but also to understand the concept or rule and consider their application in various situations. Students are allowed to solve questions in different ways and answer through images or pictures, without providing any verbal explanations. It is possible for each student to carefully consider and apply the knowledge gained to their daily lives according to their level and specialty. Therefore, it can be said that the proper application of the learned contents is set as the common objective for all students in the upper secondary schools.