# Learning Standards — Definition & Explanation

> From the SchoolBrowse Education Glossary.
> HTML version: https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/learning-standards

**In short:** Statements describing what students should know and be able to do at each grade level or after each course.
**Learning standards** are clear statements describing what students should know and be able to do at each grade level or upon completing a course. Standards provide shared expectations and guide curriculum, instruction, and assessment development.

## Types of Standards

Content standards describe subject-matter knowledge. Performance standards describe expected levels of achievement. Process standards describe cognitive skills like critical thinking. Many states have adopted or adapted Common Core State Standards for ELA and math.

## Standards-Based Education

In standards-based education, curriculum aligns to standards, instruction targets standard mastery, and assessments measure standard attainment. The goal is ensuring all students meet defined expectations regardless of school attended.

## Frequently asked questions

**Q: What are learning standards?**

Learning standards are statements describing what students should know and be able to do at each grade level, guiding curriculum and assessment.
**Q: Who sets academic standards?**

Each state sets its own standards, though many have adopted Common Core or similar frameworks. National organizations develop standards in some subjects.

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