What can you tell me about The Common Core?

     When interviewing for a teaching position, you need to be knowledgeable about "hot topics" and current educational initiatives.  Administrators want to know if you have done your homework and are "up to speed" on what is happening both locally as well as nationally.  The following question is one you are likely to be asked - be prepared to offer an appropriate and succinct answer.





What can you tell me about The Common Core?
A:   The Common Core provides teachers, parents, and students with a set of clear, consistent expectations in math and English language arts throughout all the grades to ensure that all students have the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in college, career, and life upon graduation from high school.  The Common Core focuses on developing the critical-thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills students will need to be academically successful.  The standards also provide a way for teachers to measure student progress throughout the school year and ensure that students are on the road to academic success.  These standards are also aligned to the expectations of colleges, workforce training programs, and employers.  They promote equity by ensuring all students are well prepared to collaborate and compete with their peers throughout the country.
            This question is specifically designed to see if you know your “stuff.”  Show that you’ve done your homework ahead of time and that you are knowledgeable about the role of standards in curriculum design and effective teaching.