Elementary Schools

The elementary school course is from six to nine years in length, the ordinary period being eight years. The pupils enter at about six years of age. In the cities the elementary schools are usually in session for five hours daily, except Saturday and Sunday, beginning at 9 a.m. There is an intermission, usually of an hour at midday, and short recesses during the sessions.

The program of studies in the elementary school includes English (reading, writing, spelling, grammar, composition), arithmetic(sometimes elementary algebra also, or plane geometry in the upper grades), geography, history of the USA, and elementary natural science including human physiology and hygiene. Physical training, vocal music, drawing and manual training are often taught. Sometimes a foreign language (Latin, German or French) and the study of general history are begun. Religious teaching is officially not permitted, although the exercises of the day are often opened with a reading from the Bible and the singing of a hymn.

Intermediate Education – the Junior High School

A new kind of school, the junior high school appeared about the turn of the last century. Usually it comprises grades seven, eight and nine, although sometimes it is only grades seven and eight.

In elementary schools, students remain in one classroom for instructions in all courses by one teacher, in secondary schools the students go to different rooms and teachers for different courses. The courses in elementary school are required, secondary school students have some latitude in choosing their program. There is a vast difference in the social habits of secondary school students and those of elementary school pupils.

The junior high school is a sort of halfway point between elementary and secondary school. It continues some elementary school subjects, but it also introduces courses in mathematics and science, and usually gives students their first chance to study a foreign language.

The ninth grade, although it is often physically located in the junior high school, is considered the first year of secondary school. Grades based upon a ninth grade student’s work are included in the credentials presented for college and university admission.

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Education in USA	\|	Secondary Education

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