Modersmålsundervisning

Modersmålsundervisning is a form of education within the Swedish school system offered to pupils whose home language is not Swedish. The instruction is conducted in the pupil’s mother tongue and aims to develop reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension in that language, while also supporting learning in Swedish and other subjects.

Eligibility and organization vary by municipality. Students in compulsory and upper secondary school who have a home language other than Swedish can be offered modersmålsundervisning. Parents or guardians apply, and municipalities arrange the sessions, which are often held during school hours for a portion of the week. The exact frequency and duration are determined locally.

Content and pedagogy focus on language development, literacy, literature, culture, and communication in the mother tongue. The goal is to maintain and strengthen the pupil’s linguistic resources, which can support overall academic achievement and facilitate learning in other subjects. Teaching is typically provided by teachers qualified in the language, and may involve collaboration with community resources or language organizations. Some schools use bilingual teachers or native speakers to deliver instruction.

Administration and assessment are generally governed by national and municipal policies. Modersmålsundervisning is not mandatory nationwide and is funded by the municipality as part of the education budget. Progress is usually documented in classroom assessments and reports to parents; it is not typically included in national standardized tests.

Historical and legal context: modersmålsundervisning emerged from education policies intended to support students with diverse linguistic backgrounds and to promote inclusion and equal educational opportunities. It remains a recognized option within the Swedish school system.