Instruction for Mathematics and Science in Primary and Lower Secondary Grades
Grade at Which Specialist Teachers for Mathematics and Science are Introduced
In general, classroom teachers teach Grades 1 to 6, and specialist teachers Grades 7 to 9.
Instructional Materials, Equipment, and Laboratories
In Finland, the main materials for teaching mathematics and science are textbooks published by commercial publishers. These textbooks are not subject to official approval, but they must comply with national curriculum guidelines. There are two to three widely used textbook series both for the primary level (Grade 4) and for the lower secondary level (Grade 8). In addition to the student textbook, the mathematics series usually includes teachers’ guides, supplementary materials, assessment materials, and some manipulatives for the primary level. Publishers also may offer instructional materials on their websites. Schools and teachers are free to choose any textbook series they find suitable. For practical reasons, teachers in the same school usually use the same textbook.
When studying science, it is crucial that students have an opportunity to observe and analyze; therefore, being able to work and move about safely is essential. The number of teaching facilities specially equipped for science instruction is based on the number of science lesson hours per week: one room is needed for up to 27 lesson hours. In addition, appropriate laboratory equipment should be available for teachers and students (e.g., heat cupboards, sinks, faucets, and hot plates).11
Use of Technology
The National Core Curriculum (2004) includes six cross-curricular themes, and their objectives and contents are incorporated into a range of subjects. Integrating education and instruction, the cross-curricular themes also respond to topical educational challenges. One cross-curricular theme, Technology and the Individual, aims to help students understand an individual’s relationship to technology and recognize the importance of technology in daily life.12
There are 5.5 students per computer in basic education, on average, and in primary schools nearly 80 percent of schools have fewer than 10 students per computer.13
Technology use is becoming more common in mathematics and science instruction, with 20 percent of teachers at Grade 4, and 29 percent of teachers at Grade 8, using ICT in at least 25 percent of lessons. This is close to the EU average.14
In science instruction, ICT is used for measurement, reporting results, and searching and processing knowledge. Various types of measurement equipment and mobile devices are used in the classroom and in outdoor studies. In mathematics instruction, learning games are available (e.g., Ekapeli-Matikka) for training in basic mathematics skills and concepts at the beginning of primary school.15 If and when these are used, such games only supplement more traditional methods and materials.
Accommodation Policies for Instruction and Testing
A student who has difficulties in learning or in attending school is entitled to part-time, special needs education, and a student who needs regular support will be provided with enhanced support in accordance with a learning plan.16 The learning plan will be drawn up in collaboration with several professionals, depending on the student’s learning challenges. Publishers also offer special needs textbooks in many subjects. Every student has the right to study in his or her own municipal school in accordance with the principal of the nearby school.