The Core Knowledge Edge: Pre-K

We can, and must, establish high expectations for
    all young children, recognizing that the rates and
    approaches to learning may vary among individuals.

Features of a Core Knowledge Pre-K Classroom:

• Classroom experiences and activities are based on explicit guidelines that specify essential knowledge and skills for all preschool age children (Core Knowledge Preschool Sequence)
• Sequence goals build sequentially, step by step: current knowledge and skills become the starting point for subsequent experience and instruction
• Explicit, sequential goals allow teachers to make knowledge and skills accessible to preschoolers in small manageable steps: children are always ready to learn if teachers know where to start 
• Balance of experiences and activities within all developmental areas: Physical Well-Being and Coordination, Social and Emotional Development, Approaches to Learning, Language Development, Knowledge Acquisition and Cognitive Development
• High expectations for all children, recognizing that rates and methods of learning may vary among individuals
• Consistency in content and experiences presented to preschoolers; children entering kindergarten have a common base of knowledge and skills 
• Sequence facilitates effective planning and monitoring to identify learning gaps and ensure that important knowledge and skills are not omitted 
• Teacher assumes an interactive role in guiding and presenting experiences and instruction 
• Approaches the development of each child's autonomy within the context of the class group; encourages socially responsible behavior and respect for the group 
• Focuses on the "language of instruction," recognizing the importance of adult language models for developing a solid foundation in receptive and expressive language 
• Emphasizes linking concrete, manipulative experiences with beginning level abstract, representational learning 
• Based on cognitive psychology research and empirically validated practice with millions of preschool children internationally 
• Correlated to the highly respected Core Knowledge Sequence for grades K-8 to provide a smooth transition and ensure ongoing learning from preschool to kindergarten 

Vist the HEB ISD Core Knowledge Department site for more detailed information about the CK program in HEB or the Official Core Knowledge Pre-K site to learn more about the program.