Investigating the experiences and perceptions about in-depth studies in English and its curriculum

Abstract

In-depth studies in English is an optional subject at lower secondary school, which according to its curriculum should facilitate further specialization in English. Despite this, earlier reports have shown that teachers teach the subject more as a support subject for the normal English subject, than an in-depth subject. This thesis has conducted a qualitative and quantitative study of whether the subject of in-depth studies in English is taught in accordance with its curriculum by focusing on the focus areas in the subject, and as a consequence, whether it is taught as an in-depth subject. This analysis has found that even though most pupils and teachers experience that the subject is taught in accordance with the curriculum, both the pupils and teachers have pointed out challenges with the subject that need further study.