Abstract
The main aspects of democratic system of education are a humanistic approach, individualization, and differentiation. Ongoing discussions focus on the best way to teach natural sciences for pupils in humanitarian, social or vocational education programs in the context of sustainable development. For these types of programs, the natural science curriculum should provide all learners with the opportunity to achieve scientific and technological literacy (STL) that is to develop pupils' capacities to function as responsible citizens in the world increasingly affected by science and technologies. This paper highlights specific guidelines for the development of science curricula that are both interdisciplinary and socially relevant. The author emphasizes the context of interaction between human beings, society, and environment. These aspects are introduced in the new school science curriculum of Latvia. The survey of teachers' attitudes towards integrated natural science curriculum and study of pupils' achievements reflects the possibility of promoting scientific literacy of pupils.