~~by Donna Garner~~

 

If a person wanted to destroy our American culture, keep this generation from communicating effectively with older generations, and make sure today’s children grow up detesting America instead of valuing our nation’s American exceptionalism, the best plan would be to implement the Common Core Standards (CCS) into every school in America. 

 

 

 

OBAMA’S PLAN

 

 

 

That is exactly what Obama and his administration are trying to do, and 45 states (plus D. C.) originally committed to the CCS (before the standards had even been released publicly).  However, because of a groundswell of negative responses from the grassroots, a large number of states are now rethinking their commitment to the CCS. 

 

 

 

TEACHERS REQUIRED TO DO…

 

 

 

As directed by the CCS, teachers have to make sure that by the time students graduate in 2014, 70% percent of books studied must be nonfiction (i.e., informational text); and those nonfiction selections must be taught in a “close reading” process.  That means students must not be given any background information or historical significance of a nonfiction piece before reading it.  For instance, the Declaration of Independence must be presented devoid of what was occurring in the United States at the time this monumental document was written, leaving students with a shallow understanding of the courage and revolutionary spirit that moved the signers to voice their opposition to tyranny. 

 

 

 

Just as importantly, how many English teachers could possibly cover the great classic pieces of fiction literature in only 30% of classroom time?  None.  For instance, it takes at least four to six weeks in English I to cover Great Expectations, which is one of the most outstanding, applicable, and character-building books for early-high school teens to read.

 

 

 

 

 

PLEASE CONTINUE READING AT THIS LINK TO SEE HOW I ARRIVED AT THE CONCLUSION POSTED BELOW:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CONCLUSION

 

 

 

Reading with ease and comprehension forms the cornerstone upon which success in all other school courses is based.  Reading the literary classics takes time but opens doors of opportunity and understanding for students.  The study of the Bible as literature is fundamental to a student's education.  Biblical allusions exist in the classics as well as in modern literature.  Including the study of the Bible gives students a broader understanding of the major works that they will read in school and later in life. 

 

 

 

Because the Common Core Standards diminish time spent on the great classic pieces of the world, many of which were written by authors “who cut their teeth” on the Bible, students who largely study informational text through the “close method” will lack an understanding of American exceptionalism.  We as Americans must not allow this to happen to our children and grandchildren who are the future of this great nation.

 

 

 

 

 

Donna Garner

 

 

 

 

 

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