Nine Ways the Common Core Will Change Classroom Practice

In his article Robert Rothman breaks down nine very important differences the Common Core has from the old state standards. The first four are centered around mathematics while the fifth through ninth are based on changes in English language arts. The first is that the Common Core Standards are going to focus on fewer topics, but address each topic in greater depth. The second difference that the Common Core will introduce new topics that builds on each other in each grade. The third difference is that they clarify that each bit of mathematical knowledge is equal; there is not one that is most important. The fourth difference is that teachers must allow their students the opportunity to demonstrate the mathematical content that they have learned. The fifth difference is that they want to place a larger emphasis on nonfiction; half of the reading in elementary school should be nonfiction and seventy-five percent in high school should be nonfiction. The sixth difference is that students will be required to use evidence in their work rather than relying on their opinions of personal feelings. The seventh difference is that they must increase their level of difficulty on reading each year; teachers must select materials appropriate to their grade level. The eighth difference is that small group and whole –class discussion must be emphasized more because students must demonstrate speaking and listening skills. The last major change the common core will make is that students must be able to understand texts from other areas like history, science, and other technical subjects. These are big changes all at once, but most schools have the help of the state of private organizations