Abstract:

To ensure the continuity and high quality of science education, France released a revised version of its science curriculum framework for compulsory education in 2023. This new framework features four key characteristics:it is grounded in the concept of a “common foundation”;it emphasizes scientific competence,focusing on the development of scientific cultural and practical abilities;it prioritizes operability in implementation,aiming for concrete and actionable teaching practices;and it draws on real-world contexts to highlight the social significance of science. The framework follows principles of progression, systematic design,and interdisciplinarity. It strengthens the cultivation of scientific cultural practices in content design,provides detailed operational guidance in implementation,and ensures continuity across educational stages. Drawing lessons from the French experience,China’s science curriculum reform in compulsory education can benefit in several ways:shifting from passive habit formation to active competency development,emphasizing the progressive integration of “knowledge-competence-culture”;enriching curriculum content with a focus on practical scientific abilities;and rooting instructional activities in authentic contexts to enhance the social relevance of curriculum support systems.

Key words: France, science education, science curriculum framework, compulsory education