Kernfächern

Kernfächern is a German term referring to core subjects or compulsory subjects within an educational system. These are the foundational academic disciplines that all students are typically required to study to ensure a broad and common base of knowledge and skills. The specific subjects included under Kernfächern can vary depending on the educational level (e.g., primary school, secondary school, university) and the specific educational system of a country or region.

Common examples of Kernfächern in many Western educational systems include mathematics, German language (or the primary language of instruction), natural sciences (such as biology, chemistry, and physics), and social sciences (like history and geography). In some systems, foreign languages and physical education might also be considered Kernfächern. The intention behind requiring these subjects is to provide students with essential competencies that are deemed necessary for further education, vocational training, and active participation in society. They form the backbone of a curriculum, providing a shared learning experience for all students before they might specialize in elective subjects.