This is the Life Orientation CAPS Document (Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement) for the Senior Phase, Grades 7-9, issued by the South African Department of Basic Education. It sets out what must be taught, learnt and assessed in Life Orientation across Grades 7, 8 and 9, and is relevant for the 2026 and 2027 school years. The subject covers five interrelated topics: development of the self in society, health, social and environmental responsibility, constitutional rights and responsibilities, physical education, and the world of work.
The following document, Life Orientation CAPS Document Grades 7-9.pdf, is the full document.
CAPS Document Brief
Life Orientation CAPS Document Grades 7-9 kavo-183
Life Orientation is defined in the document as the subject that addresses the skills, knowledge and values needed for the personal, social, intellectual, emotional and physical growth of learners. Its content is organised into five topics of equal importance: development of the self in society, health, social and environmental responsibility, constitutional rights and responsibilities, physical education, and world of work.
The document runs to 38 pages and is organised into four sections. Section 1 introduces the national Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement, general aims and time allocations, Section 2 introduces Life Orientation, its specific aims and the weighting of topics, Section 3 provides the annual teaching plan for Grades 7 to 9, and Section 4 covers informal and formal assessment, recording, reporting and moderation.
Life Orientation aims to guide learners to achieve their full physical, intellectual, personal, emotional and social potential, and to develop skills for responding to challenges and playing an active role in the economy and society. It also aims to teach learners to exercise their constitutional rights and responsibilities, make informed decisions about health, further study and career choices, and participate in physical activity and movement.
Grade
7-9
Subject
Life Orientation
Phase
Senior Phase
Curriculum
South African (CAPS)
School Years
2026 and 2027