I tried to read the facts/myths but when "useless placeholder" was considered a fact, it gave me permanent pause.
That phrase, out of context, would give me pause as well.
Claims and Facts PI download (emphasis added)
Common Core Claim: The standards accommodate and prepare students for Algebra 1 in 8th grade by including the prerequisites for this course in grades K-7. Students who master the K-7 material will be able to take Algebra 1 in 8th grade. At the same time, grade 8 standards also include rigorous algebra and will transition students effectively into a full Algebra 1 course in grade 9.
Fact: The standards do not enable students to complete Algebra I in the 8th grade. Common Core explicitly places Algebra I in grade 9. Grade 8 in Common Core mathematics is a useless placeholder.
Some may say the
duplication of assigning Algebra I to 8th grade and 9th grade makes 8th grade Algebra 1 a useless placeholder, rather than a clear steppingstone to more rigorous curriculum.
That said, common core has changed its website several times, possibly in response to such feedback.I do think common core has issues. It did lower standards in our schools for the GT kids. The implementers say no it moves standards to a more appropriate place. I think that comes from an assumption that all kids have the same potential for learning and all need to work to the same high level. That's a political ideal, not in the common core standards, but in the common core marketing.
Overall, I think discussion of what's happening in our districts is a great way for us all to see what common core is all about and to give us some perspective as we advocate for our kids.
Agreed!
