Subjects are the main areas of study in school or college. Here are the common subjects you’ll see in English, with sample sentences to show how they’re used.

Core Subjects

Core subjects are the main required classes in most schools. These provide fundamental skills and knowledge.
  • Mathematics: The study of numbers, shapes, and problem-solving.
  • English: The study of the English language, including reading, writing, and grammar.
  • Science: The study of the natural world, including biology, chemistry, and physics.
  • History: The study of past events and civilizations.
  • Geography: The study of the Earth, countries, and environments.
SubjectExample Sentence
MathematicsI have mathematics class at 9 a.m.
EnglishWe read a novel in English class.
ScienceScience experiments are fun.
HistoryHistory helps us understand the past.
GeographyGeography class is about countries and maps.

Additional Subjects

These subjects may be optional or part of a broader curriculum, depending on the school.
  • Art: The study of drawing, painting, and other creative skills.
  • Music: Learning to play instruments, sing, and understand music theory.
  • Physical Education (PE): Activities and sports to keep the body healthy.
  • Computer Science: The study of computers, programming, and technology.
  • Foreign Languages: Classes in languages other than English, like Spanish or French.
SubjectExample Sentence
ArtI enjoy painting in art class.
MusicMusic class is on Wednesdays.
Physical Education (PE)We play basketball in PE.
Computer ScienceI’m learning to code in computer science.
Foreign LanguagesI study Spanish as a foreign language.

Complete the sentence: 'I’m learning to code in _____.'


computer science

Coding is taught in computer science classes.

Common College Subjects

At the college level, students choose more specific subjects based on their interests and career goals.
  • Psychology: The study of the mind and behavior.
  • Economics: The study of money, markets, and business.
  • Engineering: Applying science and math to design and build things.
  • Medicine: The study of health and treating illnesses.
  • Literature: In-depth study of written works, such as novels and poetry.
SubjectExample Sentence
PsychologyPsychology explains why we behave a certain way.
EconomicsEconomics class is about supply and demand.
EngineeringEngineering students build bridges and machines.
MedicineShe is studying medicine to become a doctor.
LiteratureWe analyze poems in literature class.

Complete the sentence: '_____ students build bridges and machines.'


Engineering

Engineering involves designing and building structures and machines.

Specialized Subjects

Some schools and programs offer specialized subjects that focus on particular skills or industries.
  • Business Studies: Learning about companies, management, and marketing.
  • Environmental Science: Studying how humans impact the planet.
  • Sociology: The study of society and social behavior.
  • Philosophy: Exploring big questions about life, knowledge, and existence.
  • Drama: Acting and performing in plays.
SubjectExample Sentence
Business StudiesBusiness studies covers entrepreneurship.
Environmental ScienceWe learned about climate change.
SociologySociology examines social groups and issues.
PhilosophyPhilosophy asks questions about meaning and truth.
DramaDrama class helps improve public speaking.

Summary

  • School subjects are divided into core, additional, college-level, and specialized categories.
  • Core subjects include mathematics, English, science, history, and geography.
  • Additional subjects offer opportunities in art, music, sports, and technology.
  • College subjects are more focused, like psychology, economics, and medicine.
  • Specialized subjects prepare students for specific careers or interests, such as business or environmental science.

Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025

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