Norwegian Learning

We integrate Norwegian across the curriculum, providing students with meaningful opportunities to apply their language skills in different contexts.

Primary School

In the Primary Schools at BISS Gausel and BISS Sentrum, we prioritise the development of Norwegian language skills for all students. We follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework and Norwegian language learning is integrated with Units of Inquiry (UOIs), using a conceptual approach to reinforce language learning through real-world contexts.

We also align with the Norwegian national curriculum (Kunnskapsløftet, LK20), ensuring a well-rounded, concept-based approach.

Our Norwegian curriculum is divided into two subjects:

Language and Literature (LL): For fluent Norwegian speakers, focusing on advanced language skills, literature, and cultural understanding, aligned with both IB and national standards.
Language Acquisition (LAQ): For learners of Norwegian, with a focus on reading, writing, listening and speaking.

National Testing – PYP5, MYP2 and MYP3

As part of national requirements, students sit tests in Norwegian comprehension, English, and Maths at key stages (PYP5, MYP2, and MYP3), helping to track their academic progress.

Responsibility for Language Learning

We encourage students to take responsibility for their own language learning, practising outside of lessons to further develop their skills and confidence. Joining clubs and attending events in your local area helps to consolidate your child's language learning in the classroom.

Collaboration Across Subjects

Norwegian teachers collaborate with class and subject teachers to integrate Norwegian across the curriculum, providing students with meaningful opportunities to apply their language skills in different contexts. Examples include monthly activity calendars for PYP, information about national holidays and cultural events such as Den Kulturelle Skolesekken and BlimE!

Secondary School

In the Secondary Schools at BISS Gausel and BISS Sentrum, we prioritise the development of Norwegian language skills for all students. We follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework and Norwegian language learning uses a conceptual approach to reinforce language learning through real-world contexts.

We also align with the Norwegian national curriculum (Kunnskapsløftet, LK20), ensuring a well-rounded, concept-based approach.

Middle Years Programme (MYP) – Stand-alone Language Subjects

In the MYP, Norwegian is taught as a stand-alone subject. Students explore language through conceptual learning, enhancing both their language proficiency and critical thinking skills.

Our Norwegian curriculum is divided into two subjects:

Language and Literature (LL): For fluent Norwegian speakers, focusing on advanced language skills, literature, and cultural understanding, aligned with both IB and national standards.
Language Acquisition (LAQ): For learners of Norwegian, with focus on reading, writing, listening and speaking - aiming to reach a B1 level by the end of MYP5.
Students are placed in one of six phases based on their initial assessment:
- Emergent (1+2): For beginners, focusing on basic vocabulary and simple communication.
- Competent (3+4): For intermediate learners, expanding vocabulary and grammar, with more complex structures.
- Proficient (5+6): For advanced learners, refining language skills to become confident communicators.

Students progress through phases based on regular assessments, ensuring personalized learning at every stage. In the MYP, students are expected to move up a phase every academic year.