State 
ARKANSAS

EdGate Curriculum Matrix
ARKANSAS State Standards 
November 2005

There are either 2 or 3 levels:  Level 1: Content Standard  Level 2: Student Learning Expectation  Level 3: Benchmark

2003

Official Website: http://arkedu.state.ar.us/curriculum/curriculum_framework.html

Summary by State: Arkansas' Learning Standards are defined in the Arkansas Curriculum Frameworks, discipline-based documents which clearly describe what students must know and be able to do in each academic content area at three critical levels: grades 4, 8, and 12. The rigorous academic content standards and the student learning expectations within each document provide the focus for instruction for each local school district, without rigidly prescribing every element of the local curriculum. Student demonstration of the standards and learning expectations within the Arkansas Frameworks is the anchor for the entire education system, with instructional programs, state-level assessments, professional development, school improvement planning, teacher/administrator licensure, and accountability sharing the common goal of improved student learning and performance around these standards.

Assessment: The results of the 2001 administration of the State's Primary (Grade 4) and Middle Level (Grade 8) Benchmark Exams were released on September 5, 2001. Results show improvement in three of the four areas tested, with the largest gains realized in the Middle Level Literacy section. (Literacy and Math only)

State Site: Excellent lessons on African Americans; K-3 Checklist; Course outline

Note: ICLE is in the process of preparing a summary of the ICLE research information.