The Common Core Writing Standards and State Adoption: Are We Moving in the Right Direction?

• In Event: The Question of Coherence: Perspectives on Curriculum Coordination and Alignment

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine how well the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and those of a sample of 5 states align with each other and with evidence-based, theoretically-driven aspects of writing. Our analyses were aligned closely with writing development, skills, and teaching practices derived from meta-analyses of writing intervention studies and theories of writing development. We used strands and multiple indicators within strands to identify the breadth, depth, and alignment of standards for each state and CCSS. We found that: (a) breadth of coverage varied substantially by state/CCSS and by grade within each; (b) depth of standards varied considerably; and (c) alignment between CCSS and state’s standards increased across grades but was generally low in magnitude.

Authors

• Gary A. Troia, Michigan State University

• Natalie Olinghouse, University of Connecticut

• Joshua Wilson, University of Connecticut

• Kelly A. O'Shea, University of Connecticut

• Ya Mo, Michigan State University

• Lisa Kathleen Hawkins, Michigan State University