Natural science (NAT01‑04)
Core elements

The pupils shall experience natural science as a practical and exploratory subject. Through perceiving, having a sense of wonder, exploring and experiencing the pupils shall understand the world around them in a natural-science perspective. Through practical work and making their own models to solve challenges in this field, the pupils can develop their ability to be inventive and innovative, and develop their understanding of natural-science theory. The natural-science disciplines have specific terminologies and ways of explaining phenomena and events. This core element describes the forms of expression, methods and approaches in the subject. Working with the core element of natural-science practices and approaches shall be combined with work linked to the other core elements.

The pupils shall understand, develop and use technology, including programming and modelling, in their natural-science work. By using and creating technology, the pupils can combine experience and know-how with creative and innovative thinking. The pupils shall understand technological principles and procedures. They shall assess how technology can contribute to solutions, but also create new challenges. Knowledge of and competence in technology are therefore important in a sustainability perspective. Work with the core element technology shall be combined with work linked to the other core elements.

The pupils shall learn to understand how we use key theories, laws and models for, and concepts about, energy, matter and particles to explain our physical world. By using knowledge about energy and matter, the pupils shall understand natural phenomena and see the interconnections in the natural science subject.

Through the natural science subject the pupils shall increase their understanding of nature and the environment. The pupils shall acquire a basic understanding of the origins of the earth and how life on Earth has developed. Learning about Earth as a system and how people impact this system, shall give the pupils the foundation for making sustainable decisions.

The pupils shall understand how the macro and micro systems of the body work together. They shall also understand how the body develops and how physical and mental health can be looked after. Knowledge about the body’s systems and how they affect one another, shall help the pupils to take care of their own bodies and health in a lifelong perspective.