The Common Core State Standards: An Opportunity to Enhance Formative Assessment in History/Social Studies Classrooms

Abstract

This article discusses the opportunity that the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) present for enhancing formative assessment (FA) in history and social studies classrooms. There is evidence that FA can enhance learning for students if implemented well. Unfortunately, teachers continue to be challenged in implementing FA in their classrooms. We examined reading standards for literacy in history and social studies in lesson plans created by preservice teachers in order to discuss opportunities presented by the CCSS for enhancing FA.

Keywords:

• Common Core State Standards
• formative assessment
• preservice teachers
• social studies
• learning