Pathways to the Common Core

by Lucy Calkins

197 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2012

Reviews

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't want to dwell on David Coleman's credentials, I don't want to focus on how much of the reform movement is funded by Gates and how he is trying to privatize public education, or how Pearson is taking over the world -- I just want to move on, understand what is being asked of me and my students, and figure out how to do that effectively. I've only read the first chapter and flipped through the rest, but so far I like it and am looking forward to reading this closely. The chapter I read did sort of feel like a pep talk: let's look for the gold in these standards -- but honestly, that is just fine with me. I want to go into this with a positive mindset, find ways for me to improve my practice, and help my students not only improve their performance, but also prepare them for life after high school. There are many things to like about the CCSS and this book will definitely help me focus on that as I prepare for the next year.
Update: I think this has been the best teaching book I've read in awhile, at least the most important book about curriculum I've read in several years. Already this year, I've gone back to it a couple of times as I plan units. Definitely recommend this book to other teachers making the switch to CCSS.

[Christy Valyou · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for educators that are digging into the important work of translating Common Core State Standards into practice.

[Jane Ono · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book gives an excellent overview of the Common Core Standards.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Made a lot of sense. I don't know if I agree with everything, but it was definitely an easy read...

Looking at CCSS horizontally is a really great idea. After doing this a few times, the CCSS become a lot less daunting. It becomes much about what skills do students come to you with and what are you expected to teach them.

The chapters about about the Writing Standards are probably the most interesting to me, as an English teacher. They help to a) justify some of what I've been doing in the classroom, b) inspire me to do new things, and c) take some of the weight off of my shoulders and put some of the teaching of writing responsibility in other disciplines.

[Barb Keister · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great resource for educators (or any stakeholder) who want to build an understanding of what the new CCSS mean and how they fit in with our knowledge of best practice in literacy. Personally, I found this book reassuring that reading and writing workshop continues to be the best thing we can do for our kids. Highly recommend for a book study with colleagues - I got so much more from the collaborative conversation. There's a free study guide on Heinemann's website too.

[Mel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book clearly explains the shift to the ELA Common Core standards. I highly recommend it for both educators and parents. Everyone needs to understand the shift being made if we are to succeed on this journey.

[Barbie Bamford · Rating 4 out of 5]

Positive, practical approach to CCSS.

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Given the direction of the Common Core State Standards, this book is excellent. Makes the path much clearer to the classroom teacher.