Unpacking+the+Standards+2

**Fewer, Higher, Clearer** is the basis for the new Common Core Standards - this should be our mantra when developing Power Standards/Competencies (see Hopkinton's Definition of Power Standards ) Ø Use your knowledge about the standards* to prioritize what is most important for your students to know Ø What should a graduate know and be able to do by the time they leave Hopkinton? What should a student know and be able to do to be successful in the next grade? Look at strands - What are the major areas that you spend the most time on teaching? What is most essential? Begin by identifying the Power Standards in one strand and then repeat the process for other strands Ø Starting with Kindergarten discuss major themes Ø Find and discuss redundancies/gaps - it’s more efficient to teach the right content at the developmentally appropriate age Ø What are the make and breaks? What must students know and be able to do? What do you consider non-negotiable?
 * “Unpacking the Standards”**

Ø Decide when a standard is introduced, reinforced, mastered, and practiced Ø Develop a list of “Parking Lot Items** ” which need more discussion, research, or for items that can't be agreed upon - (examples from the Math Task Force: differentiation, remediation, tiered support, homework, calculators, instruction) Ø Bring Power Standards back to grade level teams. As a team, discuss what you agree, disagree, and have questions about. Come to consensus on the Power Standards for your grade level
 * Ø Develop consistent language

 Ø Consecutive grade level teams should meet to review the Power Standards to ensure students will be properly prepared for the following grade

Ø Committee creates a list of Recommendations for Further Actions ("To Do List") which will form the basis for decision-making and purchases (e.g. resources, changes on report card, etc.) Ø Define a minimum expectation of time spent on the subject area Ø ** **It is acknowledged that the unpacking process will be slightly different depending on the subject area involved** **. **
 * Common Core Standards and New Hampshire State Standards
 * Holding area for ideas or suggestions that need further discussion; will be addressed at a later meeting