Goals for the elementary school and guidelines for school work are summarized in this brief overview of Lgr 80, a new curriculum for the first 9 years of compulsory education in Sweden. Policy statements on "equivalent" education for all elementary school children, curriculum content, and the role of the school as a socializing agent are presented. In addition, guidelines are provided for selecting subject matter, planning instruction, assigning homework, issuing report cards, and modifying instruction for pupils with difficulties. Guides are also provided for planning at the local level; establishing pupil-developed subjects, activities, and optional courses; providing all students the same opportunity to advance to secondary schooling; and breaking traditional sex role patterns in the curriculum. (RH)