Beginning with gymnasium after fourth grade means twelve years; starting after sixth grade contains thirteen years. Another way would be to go to a specialized school; however, this is not as popular. Specialized schools succeed in areas such as sports, arts or science. These types require more hours devoted to the specific subject to educate a student more in a specific area. .
Learning Appearance.
The vast differences between both countries are the subjects. American high schools offer many choices of classes, which includes a variety of levels and types. For example, a normal high school has at least ten different art classes and five different levels of math. The students cannot choose any classes in Germany. Until their senior year, everybody has to take the same subjects. For example a student after ten years of school has had ten years of Math, German, Art, Music and Physical Education: six years of World History (including Social Studies), Geography and a second language - usually English or Spanish: four years of Physics, Chemistry and a third language. Elective classes, such as Interior Design, Ceramics, or Shop are not an option. Activities like that have to be done outside of school. Another activity that is limited for students is sports. Besides physical education, German schools don't have any school sports teams. Playing basketball or volleyball requires a membership in a club or a specialized sports school. Isn't that boring? At least the homework in Germany is less, allowing more free time for activities.
Similar in both countries are class rooms, class size and educational materials. All schools have a library and a media center or at least computer rooms. Working with books and worksheets in class makes German and American lessons more effective. The schools appear the same, even if some schools in Germany are a little bit smaller. Unlike the United States, German schools have, besides their ten minute breaks, two big breaks.
