Curriculum Matters
This blog covered news on the common core, literacy, math, STEM, social studies, the arts, and other curriculum and instruction topics. This blog is no longer being updated, but you can continue to explore these issues on edweek.org by visiting our related topic pages: common core, reading & literacy, mathematics, STEM, social studies, and curriculum.
Social Studies
Fight Over Politics in AP U.S. History Guide Misses the Point, Historians Say
Some historians say that focusing on the content changes between the 2014 and 2015 AP U.S. History frameworks misses the larger point: Both documents are significantly better than what came before them.
Curriculum
Keeping Music in New Orleans Schools
In New Orleans, a state takeover of most schools ten years ago raised questions about how to preserve the city's strong musical heritage.
Reading & Literacy
Q: What Are Preservice Teachers Learning About Literacy?
The International Literacy Association finds that state standards and course requirements on literacy instruction vary considerably.
School & District Management
Google Survey Shows Parents Value Computer Science, But Barriers Remain
Principals and superintendents underestimate how much support there is among parents for K-12 computer science classes, according to a recent survey by Gallup and Google.
Curriculum
Meet the New Co-Blogger at Curriculum Matters
Jaclyn Zubrzycki, a former teacher and Education Week reporter, will be focusing on arts, music, civics, finances, STEM, and instruction as Curriculum Matters' new co-author.
Assessment
California Lawmakers Scramble to Help Students Denied Diplomas
Lawmakers drafted legislation to allow about 5,000 students to graduate even though they lost their last chance to take the state-required exit exam.
Standards & Accountability
New Poll Shows Strong Support for Annual Testing
The latest poll by Education Next shows declining public support for the Common Core State Standards, charter schools, and teacher tenure, but those policies still have more backers than detractors.
Education
Civics Tests as a Graduation Requirement: Coming Soon to a State Near You?
Eight states have passed laws requiring students to pass some version of a civics test so far in 2015.
Assessment
PARCC Decides on High School Cut Scores
The testing consortium approves cut scores for the high school test, but can't disclose yet what they are, since the point system--and spring performance data--are still being finalized.
Mathematics
Common Core's Focus on Concepts Is Key to Improving Math Education, Report Says
The Common Core State Standards' emphasis on conceptual understanding in math will improve students' problem-solving skills and ultimately help prepare them for jobs of the future, argues a new report.
Curriculum
Public School Students Can Sing Religious Songs, Iowa Board Rules
A public high school's performance of a song with lyrics about Jesus had triggered parents' concerns, but the Iowa State Board of Education agrees with a local school board that some uses of religious songs are appropriate.
Assessment
Illinois Promises Test Aligned to Next Generation Science Standards for 2016
Next year, Illinois students in 5th, 8th, and 10th grades will take an online exam aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards.
Curriculum
Q&A
San Francisco's Cutting-Edge Plan: Bring Computer Science to All PreK-12 Students
The San Francisco school district announced last month that it will phase in teaching computer science to all students at all grade levels.
Curriculum
How Should Teachers Address Politics in the Classroom?
As the 2016 presidential campaign kicks into gear, teachers have to consider whether and how to introduce politics in the classroom.