Fundamental Teaching Standards: The Framework for Professional Practice

Standard 1: Learner Development

The first foundational standard establishes that the teacher understands how learners grow and develop throughout the different stages of their lives.

The teacher recognizes that patterns of learning and development vary individually within and across cognitive, linguistic, and social-emotional areas.

With this understanding, the teacher is able to design and implement learning experiences that are developmentally appropriate and challenging.

Standard 2: Differences in Learning

The second standard refers to the teacher using their understanding of individual differences and diverse cultures to ensure inclusion.

This enables the teacher to create learning environments that are inclusive and enable all learners to achieve high standards.

Standard 3: Learning Environments

The third standard emphasizes that the teacher works with others to be able to create environments that support both individual and collaborative learning.

These environments are designed to foster positive social interaction and active engagement in the learning process.

Standard 4 and 5: Content Knowledge and Application

The fourth standard dictates that the teacher understands the research tools and structures of the disciplines he or she teaches in the classroom.

This enables him or her to create learning experiences that make these aspects of the discipline accessible and meaningful for all learners.

The fifth standard focuses on the teacher understanding how to connect concepts and how to use different perspectives to engage students.

In this way, he or she can encourage critical thinking, creativity, and collaborative problem-solving related to local and global issues.

Standard 6 and 7: Assessment and Planning

The sixth standard establishes that the teacher understands and uses multiple assessment methods to engage learners in their own growth.

This ongoing assessment allows teachers to monitor student progress and guide decision-making for both the teacher and the student.

The seventh standard focuses on teachers planning instru