I am going to be honest. The word “standards” as a K-12 teacher might be the worst possible thing to hear. Not only are they forced down our throats, but the standards, at least for NJ, not sure how other states go, are super specific, which can make things complicated when you want to do something less structured. I am constantly trying to fit creative assignments or writing tasks into standards that just do not fit. Although I think standards CAN be beneficial, especially for new teachers. I find them annoying and too narrow minded. I understand the use of having standards, it makes sense to have collective direction and goals. However, I think the specific standards do not give room for creative learning or just a break, because sometimes students need a break.
In WPA Outcomes Statement for First-Year Composition , they introduce the outcomes for that dreaded first year college comp course. I actually like these standards better than the K-12 ones. They seem to allow for more leniency depending on the teacher and more importantly the students and the circumstances. There are also fewer, which makes me feel like it’s more flexible as far as timing (not sure but I am assuming).
In Standards for the Assessment of Reading and Writing, explains the guidelines to improve literacy. The document is centered around assessments. Although in theory these standards sound like they would work. They are absolutely not working. Does that mean we have to rewrite the standards or that no one is working towards them? There is a huge literacy issue in America right now. I like how they try to almost downplay assessments and say the focus is on instruction, but in the classroom that is not the case. I’m not sure whose fault that is actually. Reading this made it seem like we have everything under control and students are focused more on the learning process while simultaneously passing assessments. That is not the reality. Students are focused on getting the grade and moving on and as teachers, we basically teach to take a state test. I think these are good things to strive for though… if possible. Lastly, in Principles for the Post-Secondary Teaching of Writing, shares guidelines for writing courses in higher education. Again, I think these standards are flexible but also real world relevant, which makes sense, since its higher education. Dare I say that we can use this in grades 5-12 but make it more appropriate based on grade level
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