In France, students study a wide range of subjects throughout their education, from primary school to lycée (high school). Here are some of the most common matières scolaires (school subjects) in French, along with their English translations and a brief description:
| French | English | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Mathématiques | Mathematics | Numbers, algebra, geometry, calculus, and logic. |
| Français | French | French language, literature, grammar, and writing. |
| Histoire-Géographie | History and Geography | Historical events, civic education, world and French geography. |
| Sciences | Sciences | General science (physics, chemistry, biology combined in early years). |
| Physique-Chimie | Physics and Chemistry | Separate sciences taught typically from middle school. |
| SVT (Sciences de la Vie et de la Terre) | Life and Earth Sciences | Biology and geology. |
| Anglais | English | English language and literature. |
| Espagnol | Spanish | Spanish language and culture. |
| Allemand | German | German language and culture. |
| Technologie | Technology | Practical and theoretical lessons on modern technology. |
| Arts Plastiques | Visual Arts | Drawing, painting, sculpture, and other visual arts. |
| Éducation Musicale | Music Education | Music theory, history, and practice. |
| Éducation Physique et Sportive (EPS) | Physical Education | Sports, physical fitness, and health education. |
- School subjects become more specialized as students progress, especially in lycée, where they choose a specific track (e.g., literary, scientific, economic).
- Language studies often start with English and may include additional languages like Spanish or German.
Astronomy is generally not a core subject in French primary or secondary education.
'SVT' stands for 'Sciences de la Vie et de la Terre', which means Life and Earth Sciences.
Physique-Chimie is usually introduced as separate subjects starting in collège (middle school).
Physical Education is called 'Éducation Physique et Sportive' (EPS) in France.
'Sciences' in early French education usually covers biology, chemistry, and physics.
Conclusion
French school subjects cover a broad and evolving curriculum from primary school to high school, reflecting both core academics and practical skills.
- Common subjects include Mathématiques, Français, Histoire-Géographie, and Sciences.
- Specialized tracks and new subjects are introduced in lycée.
- Language learning often starts early and may include multiple foreign languages.
Histoire-Géographie is the combined study of history and geography.
'Technologie' covers modern technology and its practical applications.
Common foreign languages include Anglais (English), Espagnol (Spanish), and Allemand (German).