PA Common Core

Common core standards... a very common and hated phrase to many. As an education major this phrase came up.... A LOT! 

What are these standards?

These standards are  a state-led effort which is coordinated by the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices (NGA Center) & the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO). 

These standards were created with teachers, school administrators, and other education experts.The Common Core Standards define the knowledge and skills students should have within their K-12 education careers so that they will graduate high school able to succeed in entry-level, credit-bearing academic college courses and in workforce training programs.

I asked some teachers, parents and people becoming teachers what their feelings on the PA Common Core:

• one parent said "It's to confusing and complicated. In addition to that ... As a parent we can't help because we don't know it either. The teachers seem just as confused at times"
• Another parent who's child is not in school yet looked it up and said "Oh lord it looks scary"
• A Student teacher said " I think they limit creativity and doesn't allow students to learn in ways other than the way they outline."
• A teacher said " I think they are helpful but I don't think they should be the only thing that is taught. Like PA doesn't teach money at all until second grade because it's not common core. 

What are your thoughts?

WTAE news in Pittsburgh put a link up asking :

Can you pass a common core 5th grade math test? 

My answer is NO! I took the quiz (link below) and got 7/15. A big F!!! 

Some of the material on the test I never learned in school. I think parents would have a very hard time being able to help their children with homework unless they take the time to relearn the material. 

How many of you can pass this test? 

http://www.wtae.com/news/can-you-pass-a-common-core-5th-grade-math-test/27644388