A survey suggests most teachers believe that in an era of high-stakes testing in English/language arts and mathematics, other vital subjects are getting pushed out of the classroom.
But nearly half of those responding believe the extra focus on English and math is helping boost students’ “skills and knowledge” in one or both subjects.
About two-thirds of the 1,001 public school teachers surveyed said disciplines such as art, science, and social studies are getting crowded out of the school day. The survey was commissioned by Common Core, a Washington-based research and advocacy group.
Nearly all the teachers who see the curriculum narrowing say state tests are the main culprit, and 60 percent of respondents say their school is devoting more time to test-taking skills. Also 77 percent of respondents say the changes affect all students, not just those who are struggling.
