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Schools Around the World

How the school day, the school year, uniforms and homework differ from one country to another. Built for comparison, so students can measure their own school against what they see.

Almost everything about school changes from country to country except the purpose. The year starts in September across most of Europe and North America, in April in Japan, and in January in the southern hemisphere, where the long holiday falls over Christmas. Uniforms are compulsory in some systems and unthinkable in others; homework loads differ by hours a week.

The topic exists to be compared, which is why it teaches comparatives so well: longer than, fewer subjects than, unlike in my country, whereas, both countries. Ask students to place their own school beside one from the video, and the grammar arrives because they need it, not because it was set.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do schools differ from country to country?

In almost everything except the purpose: when the school year starts, how long the day lasts, whether uniforms are worn, how pupils are graded, and how much homework is normal. Comparing two systems is one of the easiest ways to get a class talking.

When does the school year start in different countries?

September in most of Europe and North America, but April in Japan, and January in the southern hemisphere, where the summer holidays fall over Christmas. The calendar follows the local seasons rather than any international rule.

What language do I need to compare school systems?

Comparatives and contrast linkers: longer than, fewer subjects than, whereas, while, unlike in my country, both countries. With those, a student can turn simple facts about two schools into a proper comparison.