Common Core State Standards Higher Expectations Fewer Topics Deeper Understanding How Can We Help at Home?
Common Core State Standards: How Can We Help at Home? Marli Yeo Timber Creek Elementary Julie KennedyStilwell Elementary Kristen LeamingMorse Elementary
What are the Common Core State Standards? The CCSS are a coherent progression of learning expectations in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics designed to prepare K- 12 students for college and career success.
What will be different? The CCSS represents a shift in instruction and learning more than a change of standards. Students will experience a new way of learning that exposes them to a more rigorous curriculum and enhanced levels of understanding.
Why do we need the CCSS? Curriculum and expectations varied widely from state to state Consistent, clear expectations and standards needed for every grade level across the nation Students will be equipped and prepared for college and career expectations
English Language Arts Strands English Language Arts (ELA) Language (L) Speaking and Listening (SL) Writing (W) Foundational Skills in Reading (RF) Reading for Informational Text (RI) Reading for Literature (RL)
How will Reading look different? An increase in Informational Text – 50% by the end of 4 th /5 th grade – 70% by the end of high school Increased rigor in the types of comprehension questions: analyze, infer, compare/contrast Writing is research or text based while incorporating their opinion Academic vocabulary used across all curriculums
How can I help my child in Reading? Build up your informational (nonfiction) library at home Have your child read in a variety of ways Discuss and ask critical thinking questions with your child’s independent reading Have your child read and reread closely to find text based evidence to support their responses and opinions Incorporate academic vocabulary and make it a family initiative
Common Core Math Standards The Common Core State Standards lay a solid foundation in: – whole numbers; addition; subtraction; multiplication; division; fractions; and decimals. Taken together, these elements support a student’s ability to learn and apply more demanding math concepts and procedures.
Math Domains and Conceptual Categories
Mathematical Practices Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them Reason abstractly and quantitatively Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others Model with mathematics Use appropriate tools strategically Attend to precision Look for and make use of structure Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning
How will Math look different? Fewer topics, deeper conceptual understanding A progression of skills that is mathematically coherent Shift in mathematical concepts and skills Think like mathematicians Mastery of math facts and computational skills
How can I help my child in Math? Encourage mental math-decompose and manipulate numbers in your head Know when key fluencies are expected in each grade level Provide practice for mastery of facts Follow the conceptual strategies used at school to lay the foundation for understanding before the traditional algorithm is taught
How can I help my child in Math? Look for problem solving opportunities in everyday life Encourage practical application of the skills students are learning Talk to them about the problem solving processes they are using Ask children to explain their reasoning Give your child more time to work through math problems independently It’s ok to let them struggle as they go through the problem solving process
CCSS Additional Resources Common Core Standards Website – Kansas State Department of Education Website – National PTA Website – Blue Valley School District Website –
Questions After the CCSS transition, if you still have questions, remember your child’s teacher will be your best resource.