Standards and Curriculum

This is an overview of the educational standards guiding our curriculum in Hawaiʻi. These standards ensure that our students receive a comprehensive and high-quality education across various subjects. Below is a summary of each subject area.

These standards are designed to provide a balanced and enriching education for our students. For more detailed information on each subject area, please visit the HIDOE Subject Matter Standards page.

Standards

Common Core State Standards (CCSS)

The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) are a set of high-quality academic benchmarks in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics. These standards were developed to ensure that students across the United States receive a consistent and rigorous education that prepares them for college, career, and life in a global society.

In Hawaiʻi, the CCSS guide teaching and learning in ELA and Math from kindergarten through grade 12. They emphasize:

Critical thinking and problem solving
Deep understanding of concepts
Application of knowledge to real-world situations
Clear, consistent expectations across grade levels

The goal is to help students build strong foundational skills that will support lifelong learning and success.

More Information:

Hawaiʻi DOE – Subject Matter Standards

Hawaiʻi DOE –Learning Design

National Common Core Website

English Language Arts (ELA)

Standards: Hawaiʻi Common Core Standards
Description: The ELA standards focus on developing students’ reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. They emphasize critical thinking, comprehension, and effective communication.
More Information: Hawaiʻi Common Core Standards for ELA

Mathematics

Standards: Hawaiʻi Common Core Standards
Description: These standards aim to build a strong foundation in mathematical concepts, problem-solving, and reasoning skills, preparing students for real-world applications.
More Information: Hawaiʻi Common Core Standards for Mathematics

Science

Standards: Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
Description: The NGSS encourage students to think like scientists by engaging in inquiry-based learning and understanding core scientific concepts across disciplines.
More Information: Next Generation Science Standards

Social Studies

Standards: Hawaiʻi Core Standards for Social Studies (HCSSS)
Description: These standards guide students in exploring history, geography, economics, and civics, fostering an understanding of cultural diversity and global interconnections.
More Information: Hawaiʻi Core Standards for Social Studies

Computer Science

Standards: Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) K-12 Computer Science Standards
Description: The computer science standards introduce fundamental concepts such as algorithms, programming, and data analysis, promoting computational thinking from an early age.
More Information: Computer Science for Hawai‘i

Fine Arts

Standards: National Core Arts Standards
Description: These standards encompass visual arts, music, dance, and theater, encouraging creativity, expression, and appreciation of the arts.
More Information: National Core Arts Standards

Health Education

Standards: National Health Education Standards (NHES)
Description: Health education focuses on developing health literacy skills, including understanding health concepts, analyzing influences, accessing resources, and making informed decisions to promote overall well-being.
More Information: Health Education Standards

Physical Education

Standards: Hawaiʻi Content and Performance Standards III
Description: Physical education emphasizes the development of motor skills, understanding movement concepts, promoting active lifestyles, and achieving physical fitness.
More Information: Physical Education Standards

Career and Technical Education (CTE)

Standards: Hawaiʻi Content and Performance Standards III
Description: While CTE programs are more prominent at the secondary level, foundational concepts may be introduced in elementary grades to build awareness of various career pathways and technical skills.
More Information: Career & Technical Education

Curriculum

English Language Arts (ELA): Wonders Reading Curriculum

Overview: Wonders is an evidence-based K–5 ELA program developed by McGraw Hill. It empowers students to take an active role in learning through exploration and builds strong literacy foundations.
Key Features:
- Authentic Literature: Students engage with meaningful texts that reflect diverse perspectives, enhancing their understanding of the world.
- Differentiated Instruction: The program offers resources tailored to meet the needs of all learners, including English Language Learners (ELLs).
- Digital Integration: Wonders provides a blend of print and digital resources, allowing for interactive and flexible learning experiences.
More Information: Wonders Reading Curriculum

Mathematics: Illustrative Mathematics Curriculum

Overview: Illustrative Mathematics (IM) is a problem-based core curriculum designed to foster a deep understanding of mathematical concepts through collaborative learning.
Key Features:
- Problem-Based Learning: Students explore mathematical concepts by solving real-world problems, promoting critical thinking and reasoning skills.
- Coherent Progression: The curriculum is structured to build upon students’ prior knowledge, ensuring a logical and connected development of skills across grade levels.
- Active Engagement: IM encourages students to discuss and justify their thinking, fostering a classroom environment rich in mathematical discourse.
More Information: Illustrative Mathematics K–5 Curriculum