Instruction for Mathematics and Science in Primary and Lower Secondary Grades
Grade at Which Specialist Teachers for Mathematics and Science are Introduced
Up to Grade 4, elementary schools in Hungary have classroom teachers who teach all subjects. Specialist teachers for mathematics and science are introduced in Grade 5, at the latest. Although in most schools students have only one teacher in the earlier years, in many schools there are specialists for mathematics and science (or other subjects).
Instructional Materials, Equipment, and Laboratories
Textbooks, exercise books, and teachers’ editions of textbooks are the main instructional materials for teaching mathematics and science, both for integrated science courses in Grades 1 to 6 and for the separate subject areas in Grades 7 to 8. Teachers can choose from two textbooks and use other instructional materials corresponding with the local curriculum.
Science teaching and learning in lower primary schools (Grades 1 to 4) are carried out in the classroom. Generally science rooms and laboratories are not provided at the lower primary level. The percentage of schools having science laboratories for upper secondary education has increased over the last few years, but many schools still have old laboratories and equipment.
Use of Technology
In Hungary’s core curriculum, “using vehicles of knowledge” is one of the skill development areas in mathematics throughout compulsory education. The curriculum mentions the use of calculators, familiarity with teaching-learning technologies, and the responsible and interactive use of technologies (e.g., the Internet and CD-ROMs).10
Accommodation Policies for Instruction and Testing
In accordance with Act CXC of 2011 on National Public Education,11 students with special education needs have the right to receive special education accommodations after their eligibility is determined.
The national core curriculum defines possible modifications or simplifications of or exemptions from certain areas of the curriculum; areas of possible rehabilitation for students; and possible time extensions for education, training, and development according to the different types of special needs.