The over all aim of this study was to analyse curricula and syllabuses concerning

Swedish as a Second Language in compulsory basic school. Texts have been

interpreted and analysed through a frame of conceptions in one monoculture and one

multiculture prism. These prisms have been useful in creating different pictures of the

subject. The analysis shows changes, breaks and double tracks with contradictory

ideals. The result shows a subject growing from a need to keep prevailing order and to

foster future citizens. Despite efforts towards multicultural ideals contemporary

curricula is principally monocultural. A subject with dual educational ideals appears.