In grades 5 and 6, smaller learning groups are formed for individual support in some lessons, usually in the subjects German, English or mathematics, or some lessons are double-staffed with two teachers.
Subjects taught at the integrated comprehensive school
1. compulsory area:
- Religion / Ethics
- German, English
- English
- Mathematics
- Social studies
- Natural sciences: Biology, Physics, Chemistry
- Music, fine arts
- sport
- Class council
2nd compulsory elective area:
- Cross-curricular compulsory elective subjects from the following subject areas:
- Communication and media, arts, mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology (MINT), economics, social affairs, sport and health, language (2nd foreign language French or Latin)
3. optional area:
- 3rd foreign language
- Other electives, e.g. choir/orchestra, sports, study groups
- Remedial lessons
From year 6 onwards, pupils take an elective subject or a combination of two elective subjects from the wide range of compulsory electives on offer, depending on their inclination and individual strengths; this subject or these subjects are generally retained until the end of secondary school.
The different levels of performance (aptitude, ability and willingness to perform) of the pupils are taken into account by differentiating performance on at least two levels of difficulty in individual subjects (English, mathematics, German and later chemistry, physics and biology). However, this does not mean that a final decision has been made about the school-leaving certificate.
In the subjects of social studies, music, fine arts and sport, religion or ethics, pupils will continue to be taught together as a class.
Some of the upper secondary schools at comprehensive schools are organized as "profile upper secondary schools". They have a different focus and provide special support for new pupils in year 11. All integrated comprehensive schools offer French, Latin or Spanish lessons in the new foreign language for pupils without a second foreign language from year 11 onwards.
