Read the Standards

The Common Core State Standards build on the best of what states already had in place. They provide clear, consistent learning goals designed to prepare students for success in college, careers, and life. These standards clearly show what students are expected to learn at each grade level, so parents and teachers can better support student progress.

Key Features of the Standards:

1. Based on research and evidence
2. Clear, understandable, and consistent
3. Aligned with college and career expectations
4. Focused on rigorous content and the application of knowledge through critical thinking skills
5. Built on the strengths and lessons from current state standards
6. Informed by top-performing countries to prepare students for success in a global economy

Research shows that mastering these standards is crucial for students to thrive in today’s global economy, whether they pursue college or a career.

By aligning the efforts of students, parents, and teachers, we can ensure that students make progress each year and graduate high school ready to succeed in college, their careers, and life.

The standards focus on core concepts and essential skills starting from the early grades. This gives teachers the time to teach the material thoroughly, and students the time to truly understand it.

These standards were developed using the best international models, as well as input from educators, researchers, parents, and other experts. The result is a set of standards that reflects the best educational practices from both the U.S. and abroad.

For grades K-8, the standards are organized by grade level for both English language arts and mathematics. For high school, they are grouped into two grade bands: 9-10 and 11-12. While the standards provide grade-specific learning goals, they do not prescribe how teachers should teach or which materials they should use.

It’s up to states and districts to determine what resources and support systems are needed to help all students—including those with special needs and English language learners—master the standards.

No single set of standards can fully address the wide range of abilities and needs in a classroom. However, the Common Core provides clear benchmarks along the path toward college and career readiness, ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed.