Subject Standards

Standards belong in every course, every unit, every assessment, and every lesson.

Even if your school does not specifically require standards for your subject, as a teacher -- you need them. Standards gives purpose to the learning, to the unit, to the assessment, and purpose to your teaching. It is still up to you to find ways to deliver the standards; the teacher must always be the master of delivery of each lesson. The school curriculum defines what is to be taught. Standards bring purpose and value to the class and to the assessments. 

"Standards are what to focus on for teachers and students."

Understanding the Difference Between Subject Standards and Skill Standards in K-12 Education 

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Skill standards list, by subject

Understanding the Difference Between Subject Standards and Skill Standards in K-12 Education

In the world of K-12 education, there's a lot of talk about standards. Teachers, administrators, and curriculum developers frequently reference them, but it's essential to understand the distinction between two key types: subject standards and skill standards. Each plays a crucial role in shaping our students' learning experiences and outcomes, and knowing the difference can help us all design better educational strategies.

What Are Subject Standards?

Subject standards, often called content standards, are the backbone of any subject-specific curriculum. These standards define the knowledge that students are expected to acquire in a particular subject at each grade level. Whether it's the Revolutionary War in U.S. history, the laws of motion in physics, or algebraic equations in mathematics, subject standards ensure that students gain a solid foundation of essential facts, concepts, and theories. The subject standards can be determined by the school curriculum goals, or classroom teachers. The focus is on the subject content. 

For example, a history standard might require students to "analyze the causes and consequences of the American Revolution." This standard is clearly focused on a specific topic within the history curriculum, guiding teachers on what to cover and ensuring that students understand the key events and their significance.

What Are Skill Standards?

On the other hand, skill standards, sometimes referred to as process standards or competency standards, are about the "how" of learning rather than the "what." These standards focus on the abilities and skills students need to develop to be successful both in school and beyond. Unlike subject standards, skill standards are often interdisciplinary, emphasizing critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration—skills that are essential in every aspect of life. The skill standards should determined by the school curriculum and shapes the style of learning in the school. This focus is on what cognitive skills the learnings should master by grade level.

For instance, a skill standard might ask students to "construct a well-supported argument in writing" or "work collaboratively in a group to solve a complex problem." These standards encourage students to apply their knowledge in practical, often real-world contexts, helping them to become not just knowledgeable, but capable.

Does behavior also have skill standards?

Yes, behavior at school is governed by standards, often outlined in school-wide codes of conduct, classroom rules, and programs like Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS). These standards ensure a safe and respectful learning environment by setting clear expectations for student behavior, promoting positive actions, and addressing negative behaviors through specific interventions. Schools also integrate character education and social-emotional learning (SEL) to develop traits like empathy, responsibility, and emotional management, all of which contribute to maintaining a positive school climate. CASEL has standards in this domain, Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL). casel.org. 

Why Does the Difference Matter?

Understanding the difference between subject and skill standards is critical for teachers and administrators alike. Here's why:

1. Content vs. Process: Subject standards are content-specific, focusing on the essential knowledge within a particular discipline. Skill standards, by contrast, emphasize the process of learning, encouraging students to develop abilities that transcend any single subject area.

2. Assessment: Because they focus on different aspects of learning, subject and skill standards require different methods of assessment. Subject standards are often evaluated through traditional tests and quizzes that measure students' grasp of specific content. Skill standards, however, call for more varied assessments—such as projects, presentations, and performance tasks—that allow students to demonstrate their abilities in authentic contexts.

3. Curriculum Design: In a well-rounded curriculum, both subject and skill standards should be integrated. This approach ensures that students not only acquire the necessary knowledge but also develop the skills they need to apply that knowledge effectively. As educators, our goal should be to create learning experiences that address both sets of standards, providing students with a comprehensive education that prepares them for future challenges.

Bringing It All Together

For us, as educators, understanding and applying both subject and skill standards in our classrooms is vital. By clearly distinguishing between these two types of standards, we can better plan lessons, design assessments, and ultimately help our students achieve a deeper and more meaningful education. When subject knowledge is paired with the right skills, our students are equipped not just for tests, but for life.

Skill standards list, by subject

Here's a list of associations and organizations that provide skill standards for various school subjects:

Art

National Art Education Association (NAEA)

Provides standards customizable for a school’s arts program.

Business Management

National Business Education Association (NBEA)

Sets standards for business education, including management and related subjects. Available with a paid membership, $150 USD/year for individuals.

Comprehensive Standards

Common Core State Standards Initiative

Provides standards for English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics, adopted by many states and influencing other subject areas as well.

Design and Technology

International Technology and Engineering Educators Association (ITEEA)

Provides standards for technology and engineering education.

International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE)

Sets standards for technology integration in education.

Foreign Languages

American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL)

Sets standards for foreign language education.

Music

National Association for Music Education (NAfME)

Sets standards for music education, including vocal music and band.

Physical Education

Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE America)

Provides standards for health and physical education.

Science

Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)

Developed by a consortium of states to provide a framework for science education.

Social Studies: Social Sciences/Humanities/Individuals and societies

College, Career & Civic Life: C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards (C3 Framework)

Developed by a consortium of professional societies and published by the National Council for Social Studies. Sets standards for Civics, Economics, Geography, History, Psychology, Sociology, and Anthropology education.

Speech/Communication Class

 National Communication Association (NCA) 

Offers guidelines and standards for communication studies, including speech classes.

Theater/Performing Arts

Educational Theatre Association (EdTA)

Provides standards for theater education. 

For Teaching and Teachers

Danielson, Charlotte. Enhancing Professional Practice: A Framework for Teaching. 2nd ed., Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, 2007.Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, ospi.k12.wa.us/sites/default/files/2023-08/danielson-framework-teaching-2022.pdf

Charlotte Danielson's framework, known as the Danielson Framework for Teaching, is widely recognized and used by schools and districts to evaluate and support effective teaching practices.

InTASC Model Core Teaching Standards: A Resource for State Dialogue. Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO), 2011, ccsso.org/resource-library/intasc-model-core-teaching-standards.

Marzano, Robert J. The Art and Science of Teaching: A Comprehensive Framework for Effective Instruction. Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, 2007. Internet Archive, archive.org/details/artscienceofteac0000marz

Robert Marzano developed the Marzano Teacher Evaluation Model, which is another widely adopted model for improving teaching practices and leadership in schools

For School Leadership

Professional Standards for Educational Leaders 2015. National Policy Board for Educational Administration, Council of Chief State School Officers, 2015, ccsso.org/sites/default/files/2017-10/SummaryofProfessionalStandardsforEducationalLeaders2015.pdf