Finnish as a second language instruction

Finnish as a second language and literature, or S2, is a mother tongue and literature syllabus. As a basic premise, the pupil studies Finnish as a second language if their mother tongue is other than Finnish and their basic language proficiency is inadequate in one or several areas. The areas of language proficiency are speaking, listening comprehension, reading comprehension and writing.

S2 instruction is provided either as differentiated teaching in Finnish language and literature classes or separately for a small group of pupils. The manner in which S2 instruction is provided is decided by the school. S2 instruction focuses on developing individually key areas of language proficiency and expanding the pupil’s vocabulary. In S2 instruction, the pupil receives support for daily interaction and school work.