B2noun2K

Curriculum

UK /["/kəˈrɪkjələm/","/kəˈrɪkjələ/"]/US /["/kəˈrɪkjələm/","/kəˈrɪkjələ/"]/

Definition

the subjects that are included in a course of study or taught in a school, college, etc.

In simple words: The subjects and lessons taught in a school.

Examples

The school's curriculum includes math, science, literature, and history.
The curriculum has been updated to include more digital literacy courses.
Teachers follow the curriculum to ensure all students meet learning goals.
The university offers a flexible curriculum allowing students to choose electives.
Curriculum design requires careful planning and consideration of student needs.

Usage notes

Used in educational contexts to describe a structured set of courses. It's appropriate in formal and academic settings but may sound too technical in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

curriculum + noun (e.g., curriculum design)

Memory hint

Think of 'curri' as 'carried' — a curriculum carries knowledge.

Collocations

broad
broadly based
wide
create
design
develop
content
subjects
area
across the curriculum
in a/the curriculum
on a/the curriculum
areas of the curriculum

Synonyms

course of study
program
educational plan
syllabus
instructional framework

Antonyms

extracurricular activities
recess

Common mistakes

Confused with 'syllabus' which is a part of the curriculum.
Mispronunciation as 'kur-riculum' instead of 'kuh-rik-yuh-lum'.
Using 'curriculums' instead of the correct plural 'curricula'.