I think that the idea behind the Common Core has good
intentions. Each state needs some
consistency and a set of guidelines to follow. If we didn’t have this in place, I believe it would make
things more difficult. Just as
students need guidance when doing work, educators need guidance when
instructing students. All well-run
organizations needs a set of standard to follow to make sure that they are
being run properly. For example,
some companies need to meet certain standards and regulations on pollution to
ensure that their company is being run properly. It is something that is necessary (for obvious reasons) and
it makes sense. I believe schools need a certain set of guidelines to follow as
well, to ensure they are being run effectively and properly.
In
reading the Common Core mission statement, I can see that what they are saying
correlates to some of the reading that we have been doing for this class. The idea that these standards are
“relevant to the real world,” demonstrates that they are making an effort to
better prepare students for the future.
Another point mentioned in the mission statement was the acknowledgement
of the global economy that we must prepare our students for in order for their
success as citizens. I realize
that there are many mixed feelings and opinions about the Common Core. Whatever the point of view may be on
the standards, I think that all educators can agree that we need some sort of
standards and regulations to adhere by.
If we do not, then there would be too much inconsistency across the
state and across the nation in the public school setting.
Well said! I agree. I feel much more comfortable having a tool (that has been created by teachers and supported by research as well as based on the developmental levels of students) to use as a guide throughout the year. It shouldn't matter if a student is in Colorado or Michigan, they need the same basic essential knowledge. I think that it is important for teachers to have the ability to present that knowledge in a format that is best suited for their classroom. For example, I've noticed a lot of boating references to illustrate meaning from the teachers at UM. Luckily, I was raised on the water, but many of my friends out here would only become more confused by the examples. It is our job to make the learning relevant for the students, but all students should have the same core knowledge and skills.
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