How is a standards-based classroom different from the "traditional" one? Certainly, the Principles of Learning are embedded in everything that occurs. The following highlights will further illustrate differences:
Students understand national and state standards as the foundation for their learning.
Students understand that the responsibility for learning has shifted to them.
Students are challenged to think at higher levels.
Students are held accountable.
Students are recognized for real accomplishments.
Student progress is measured against an absolute standard.
Students see their school leaders involved in the learning process.
Students view their teacher as an approachable and helpful facilitator.
Students see different instructional strategies used with different students in varying grouping arrangements.
Students see a commitment to be sure that all students are learning.
Students help to set learning goals.
Students are actively engaged in learning.
Students see a purpose and accept responsibility for learning.
Students collaborate with other students, regularly ask questions and act as decision-makers.
Students see connections to other learning.
Students understand the responsibility to meet the standards, the rewards for meeting them and the extra work necessary if they don't.
Students accurately self-assess.
Students maintain portfolios of their work.
Students are provided with additional expert instruction when they don't meet a standard.
Students know how they will be assessed; there are no surprises or mysteries.
Students understand that assessment is connected to planning for new learning.
Students see connections between their learning and the real world.
Students are guided by models of work that meet the standard.
Students are guided to independence.
Students see consistent expectations across subject areas.
Students see their teachers as the "guide on the side."
Students use rubrics.