The Common Core State Standards Initiative has challenged educators and students to reflect on how we learn new skills and how teachers should present these new concepts. Since the Pennsylvania Department of Education's adoption in July 2010, teachers, administrators, and families have been preparing for the implementation of these new standards for the 2013-14 school year. This guide is designed to help education students to understand the Common Core standards and provide resources for their instruction.
Standards Includes the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) Iniative for Literacy and English Language Arts, and Mathematics, as well as the Pennsylvania Department of Education's (PDE) adaptation to the standards. Also included are resources for instruction and additional information to understand the key shifts with the new standards.
Tools Part of CCSS' standards for college- and career-readiness include technology skills for 21st-century learners. Provided are tools and resources to help integrate technology into the classroom.
Out of State As of summer 2014, the CCSS have been adopted by 44 states, the District of Columbia, 4 territories, and the Department of Defense Education Activity. Though the standards are designed to level the playing field for students across the country, each state is unique in their implementation of the standards.
In the News The Common Core is a hot topic in the news, with strong positions for and against the initiative. Parents, administration, and your teachers union will all have their own opinions and questions about the standards. Keeping up with the news will help you make your own.
Research Includes Gumberg Library resources to help you conduct your own research on this new initiative.
This guide was created by Kiera Mudry, MLIS
