Elementary School (6 years):
* Japanese Language: Focusing on reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
* Mathematics: Covers basic arithmetic, geometry, and measurement.
* Social Studies: Introduces Japanese history, geography, and civics.
* Science: Basic concepts in biology, physics, and chemistry.
* Music: Singing, playing instruments, and music appreciation.
* Art: Drawing, painting, and other art forms.
* Physical Education: Various sports and physical activities.
* Moral Education (道徳, Dōtoku): Focuses on ethical behavior and character development. This is not a typical subject like others, but integrated into other areas.
Junior High School (3 years):
All elementary school subjects continue, but at a higher level of difficulty, with additions such as:
* English: Begins with basic conversational English and grammar.
* Technology/Home Economics (技術・家庭, Gijutsu/Katei): This is often split into two separate subjects, covering practical skills like cooking, sewing, woodworking, and computer basics.
Senior High School (3 years):
Students choose a course track (文系, *Bunkei* - humanities; 理系, *Rikei* - science) which significantly influences their subject choices. However, all students still receive some core subjects:
* Japanese Language: More advanced study of literature and composition.
* Mathematics: Varies significantly depending on the course track; calculus and advanced mathematics are common in *Rikei* tracks.
* Social Studies: History, geography, civics, and economics, with increasing specialization based on the chosen course track.
* Science: Biology, chemistry, and physics are common, with specialization based on the course track; *Rikei* tracks will have much more advanced science courses.
* English: Continues to develop fluency and grammatical understanding. Often includes reading and listening comprehension. Some schools offer second languages (e.g., German, French, Chinese).
* Physical Education: Continues with varied sports and activities.
* Elective Subjects: A wide range of electives allows students to pursue their interests, such as music, art, home economics, technology, and specific subjects related to their chosen track (e.g., advanced math, specific historical periods, etc.).
Important Considerations:
* Extracurricular Activities (部活動, Bukatsu): These are a significant part of Japanese school life and often involve intense commitment to clubs like sports teams, music groups, or academic societies.
* Entrance Exams: The pressure to succeed in the rigorous entrance exams for universities is substantial. Many students attend *juku* (cram schools) to prepare for these exams.
* Regional Variations: Specific course offerings and emphasis can vary slightly by region and school.
This is a general overview. The specifics can be quite nuanced, and the depth of study within each subject varies considerably depending on the student's track and the school's focus.