Edison, NJ (PRWEB) November 25, 2014
A nationwide education initiative, the Common Core sets standards for what students should know in language arts/English and math at the end of each school year - Kindergarten through 12th grade. Among educators, parents and politicians, it has been a controversial topic, but love it or hate it, most U.S. children will have to deal with it. This release provides general information about the Common Core and tips/resources to help parents learn more to help their children.
Why Do I need to Know this Now?
Although the standards were released in 2010 and some were implemented as early as 2012-2013 school year, many states are just now implementing them in the 2014-2015 school year. "We have many parents who ask about the Common Core and are still unclear what it is, " said Mani Manickavelu, President and CEO of ALOHA Mind Math.
What is the Common Core?
Most experts agree that going to the original Common Core Website is a good starting point to find information. On the site parents can find details on the English and math standards. See more resources and tips below.
From the site: “State education chiefs and governors in 48 states came together to develop the Common Core, a set of clear college- and career-ready standards…. Today, 43 states have voluntarily adopted and are working to implement the standards, which are designed to ensure that students graduating from high school are prepared to take credit bearing introductory courses in two- or four-year college programs or enter the workforce.” See below if your state had adopted the Common Core standards.*
What are Common Core Educational Standards?
From the Common core FAQ “Educational standards are the learning goals for what students should know and be able to do at each grade level. Educational standards help teachers ensure their students have the skills and knowledge they need to be successful, while also helping parents understand what is expected of their children.” Click the link above for more frequently asked questions.
How can I help my Child Adapt to the Common Core?
● Read all materials and homework that comes home with your child. The Common Core sometimes uses different teaching methods to approach familiar subjects. Reading and understanding how things are being taught, can help you help your child.
● Be an involved parent. Sometimes Common Core work and homework may not fit each child’s developmental level. If your child is struggling, this may be the case. Ask your teacher for tips on how to help a child with this issue.
● Have a consistent homework routine. Getting your children into a homework routine can really help them handle the sometimes increase homework load.
● Have a consistent homework environment. Having a designated area for children to study, away from major distractions, but where you can also be nearby to assist is helpful.
ALOHA’s and Reading|Writing Programs are another Resource for Parents:
“skills that are presented in ALOHA's Reading|Writing program reinforce classroom instruction, general knowledge, and test-taking strategies to help increase performance,” said Mr. Manickavelu. The Common Core standards have brought new testing procedures to schools. Testing anxiety can also be a problem for children as they get used to the new standards. “Our Reading/Writing program can help students become familiar and more comfortable with the test-taking process. Students learn to pace themselves in order to complete the assignments in the allotted time frame, just as in the new standardized testing process,” he added.
*What states are using the Common Core?
Seven states and one territory have not fully adopted the standards, including Illinois, which adopted only the language arts standards. AK, Il, IN, NE, OK, TX, VA, and Puerto Rico have not currently voluntarily adopted the Common Core Standards. For general details on your state click here http://www.corestandards.org/standards-in-your-state/, or on your school or do a Google search for your state board of education’s website, as some states are trying to repeal or adapt the standards.
Other Resources:
● The National PTA also has created short, easy-to-read guides explaining standards at each grade level. The documents also provide tips on how parents can help at home.
● http://commoncore.org/parents
Aloha Mind Math
Founded in 1993, ALOHA Mind Math, a leading provider of mental arithmetic and English Reading|Writing programs, has been guiding children between the ages of 5 through 12 years to achieve academic excellence in grades 1 through 5. The interactive learning process is proven to enhance a child’s math, reading and writing capabilities. The teachers also assist children in developing skills and abilities such as observation and listening that result in the overall growth of the child. ALOHA is currently training children in over 18 states and in 20 countries with 4200 different centers. For more details on this unique program please visit http://www.alohamindmath.com or search for the center closest to you by using our locator http://www.alohamindmath.com/locations/.