What does Common Core really mean?
As an educator, I'm frequently asked about the impact of Common Core State Standards on our students so I know that a lot of you have questions.
General Information
Florida adopted Common Core Standards in 2010 with strong backing from former Governor Jeb Bush, but the future of the program is uncertain because some groups are arguing that Common Core Standards represent federal intervention in local school matters so they are pressuring Governor Scott and local lawmakers to abandon the program. The state will decide on the new testing plans for the standards by March of 2014.
What is the Common Core initiative?
The Common Core initiative is a state led effort to establish a set of educational standards in English Language Arts and Math for kindergarten through 12th grade that states can voluntarily adopt. These standards are clear and concise because there is an understanding of the expectations for reading, writing, speaking, listening, language and math.
Why is Common Core important?
This program will enable collaboration between states in the development of textbooks, media, and other teaching materials. It is also designed to measure student performance with assessments that replace existing measurements. The new assessments will be available in the 2014-2015 school year.
What does Common Core mean for students?
The standards will provide clarity, and consistency in what is expected of all students across the country.
What is included in the English standards?
English Language Arts standards include classic myths and stories from around the world, America's Founding Documents, American Literature, and Shakespeare.
What is included in the Math Standards?
Whole numbers, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, and decimals. After mastering these concepts, students will have the ability to learn and apply more demanding math concepts and procedures.
Since Florida has adopted the Common Core Standard and is attempting to implement the program throughout the state; parents, teachers, and administrators need to be on the same page. It takes time and patience to initiate new programs, but do our children really have the time to "wait and see"? What do you think?