The fundamental or essential principles, facts, or elements of a subject. The most important or elementary aspects that form a foundation for further learning.
From Greek basis meaning 'foundation' or 'step', through Latin basis. The plural form 'basics' became common in educational contexts in the mid-20th century to describe foundational curriculum elements.
The word connects to the Greek concept of basis as a physical step or foundation - learning basics is literally building a foundation to step up from. Educational movements like 'back to basics' reveal our persistent belief that solid foundations are essential for higher learning.
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