The Nigerian primary education curriculum is designed by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) and follows the Universal Basic Education (UBE) system. The curriculum is structured in two major stages which are as follows:
- Lower Basic Education (Primary 1–3) – This focuses on foundational literacy, numeracy, and basic life skills.
- Middle Basic Education (Primary 4–6) – Builds on foundational knowledge with more subject depth and practical applications.
In this article we provide a brief term-by-term breakdown of key subjects in both Lower Basic and Middle Basic education to guide teachers, parents, and education planners.
LOWER BASIC (Primary 1–3) SCHEME OF WORK
In this stage, the focus is on fundamental concepts in language, mathematics, science, and moral education.
1. English Studies
English is the medium of instruction and a core subject at this level.
- First Term:
- Recognizing letters and sounds (phonics)
- Learning simple words and forming basic sentences
- Reading short comprehension passages
- Introduction to storytelling and rhymes
- Second Term:
- Word formation and spelling rules
- Identifying nouns, verbs, and simple sentence structures
- Basic comprehension exercises
- Writing simple sentences
- Third Term:
- Expanding vocabulary through storytelling
- Writing short paragraphs
- Identifying and using punctuation marks
- Oral communication exercises
2. Mathematics
Mathematics at this level focuses on developing numerical fluency and problem-solving skills.
- First Term:
- Number recognition (1–100)
- Basic addition and subtraction
- Identifying shapes (circle, square, triangle)
- Second Term:
- Introduction to multiplication and division
- Concept of fractions (half, quarter)
- Comparing sizes and lengths
- Third Term:
- Measurement (weight, height, capacity)
- Telling time using a clock
- Simple word problems
3. Basic Science and Technology
This subject introduces students to basic scientific principles and technological awareness.
- First Term:
- Living and non-living things
- Identifying parts of the human body
- Understanding the five senses
- Second Term:
- Weather and seasonal changes
- Introduction to plants and animals
- Simple energy sources (sunlight, heat)
- Third Term:
- Water and air properties
- Basic introduction to technology in daily life
- Simple machines (lever, wheel, pulley)
4. Civic Education
Civic education teaches children good behavior, responsibilities, and patriotism.
- First Term:
- National symbols (flag, anthem, coat of arms)
- Importance of respect and discipline
- Second Term:
- Rights and responsibilities of a child
- The importance of honesty and integrity
- Third Term:
- Leadership roles in school and community
- Road safety rules and obedience to laws
5. Social Studies
Students learn about their environment, culture, and the society they live in.
- First Term:
- Family types and roles
- Community helpers (teachers, doctors, police officers)
- Second Term:
- Cultural festivals in Nigeria
- Traditional occupations
- Third Term:
- Basic hygiene and cleanliness
- Modes of transportation in Nigeria
6. Physical and Health Education
Encourages physical fitness and healthy habits.
- First Term:
- Basic exercises (running, jumping, stretching)
- Personal hygiene practices
- Second Term:
- Playground safety rules
- Introduction to food and nutrition
- Third Term:
- First aid basics
- Group sports and team-building exercises
7. Cultural and Creative Arts
Enhances creativity through art, music, and drama.
- First Term:
- Drawing and coloring simple objects
- Singing and dancing to Nigerian folk songs
- Second Term:
- Storytelling and drama performances
- Making simple crafts
- Third Term:
- Creating masks and models
- Learning to play basic musical instruments
MIDDLE BASIC (Primary 4–6) SCHEME OF WORK
At this stage, subjects become more structured and complex, preparing students for Junior Secondary School.
1. English Studies
- First Term:
- Grammar: Nouns, pronouns, and verb tenses
- Writing and comprehension exercises
- Second Term:
- Letter writing (formal and informal)
- Expanding vocabulary through reading
- Third Term:
- Story writing and creative expression
- Speech and pronunciation practice
2. Mathematics
- First Term:
- Place value and large numbers
- Addition and subtraction of four-digit numbers
- Second Term:
- Multiplication and division of larger numbers
- Fractions and decimals
- Third Term:
- Area and perimeter calculations
- Introduction to algebraic expressions
3. Basic Science and Technology
- First Term:
- States of matter (solid, liquid, gas)
- Solar system exploration
- Second Term:
- Electricity and magnetism
- Food chains and ecosystems
- Third Term:
- Human body systems (digestive, circulatory)
- Pollution and conservation
4. Civic Education
- First Term:
- Leadership and community roles
- Nigerian national values
- Second Term:
- Respect for laws and rules
- Patriotism and national identity
- Third Term:
- Elections and democracy
- Understanding human rights
5. Social Studies
- First Term:
- Nigerian history and cultures
- Government structure in Nigeria
- Second Term:
- Natural resources and their uses
- Effects of climate change
- Third Term:
- Road safety education
- Drug abuse awareness
6. Physical and Health Education
- First Term:
- Fitness exercises and sports training
- First aid training
- Second Term:
- Basic self-defense and safety awareness
- Effects of drugs on health
- Third Term:
- Importance of teamwork in sports
- Common diseases and prevention
7. Cultural and Creative Arts
- First Term:
- Drawing and shading techniques
- Nigerian folk tales and music
- Second Term:
- Traditional crafts and weaving
- Dance performances
- Third Term:
- Sculpting and model-making
- Understanding Nigerian cultural heritage
Conclusion
The primary school curriculum in Nigeria is structured to provide students with basic literacy, numeracy, scientific awareness, and cultural knowledge. By following this schem¹e of work, teachers can ensure a balanced education that prepares students for Junior Secondary School and lifelong learning.
