New Standards

Earlier this year, Georgia shared new science and social studies standards in grades K-12. Using feedback from teachers, representatives from universities, business representatives, and community members, the Georgia Department of Education created new science and social studies standards. Not every standard was changed. However, most standards were revised to fit the new model of teaching science and social studies.

When creating the new standards, the Georgia Department of Education really wanted to emphasize the practice of learning from experience. The state is moving to a vision on student experience and student learning. Instead of students learning from readings, research, or typical lessons, teachers are expected to “do” science or “do” social studies now.

In social studies, the standards center on historical inquiry. This emphasis would ask that teachers use primary sources and documents to lead students in explorations of social studies and history.

From a teacher’s point of view, I am still learning how to teach in this form of learning from experience. Where is our time to “do” science experiments? Where is the time to learn from social studies experiences? What can we do while integrating science and social studies into our curriculum? From a leader’s point of view, I am noticing pushback or hesitation from staff members to adjust accordingly.

Through my role on the instructional leadership team for the school, we are looking at deconstructing the science and social studies standards. Within this process, we are able to better understand what knowledge, reasoning, skills, and products we should be teaching with our students.

These new standards have made me wonder with leadership…. What can we do to help our staff adjust and better prepare for new or revised standards? What can we do to support our staff in feeling prepared and confident to teach? What kind of professional learning opportunities are there for staff members? How can I use teacher leaders within the building to help lead learning with staff members?