Elementary students face a higher level of demand to learn and use Common Core Standards in Elementary School English Classes: Many elementary students face challenges learning and using Common Core English Language Arts (ELA) standard requirements now used in many public and private schools throughout the United States. Why do students need to know Common Core in elementary school English classes? These standards were created to help students be more competitive and prepare them for middle and high school and ultimately college and/or the workforce. Since college entrance exams, specifically the new SAT, incorporate skills students learn through common core, mastering these skills becomes even more important at the elementary school level. English Language Arts/Literacy (ELA/Literacy) and Common Core Standards: ELA/Literacy based on Common Core standards call for a deeper understanding of how students reach their answers and they must analyze, reason, and apply their own thoughts in class and homework assignments. There is an increased demand on students in elementary school to master a deeper understanding of reading materials and be able to implement their understanding in real-life scenarios. Shifts in ELA/Literacy Requirements at the elementary school level: Students must think for themselves and be able to use their own reasoning. They will need to be able to explain or write about what they have in read and be able to infer meaning from text. They are also required to provide evidence based on their reading and writing exercises. In addition, students are exposed to more nonfiction, informational texts rather than exclusively literature based reading assignments. How can tutoring help students with ELA/Literacy based on Common Core standards? Many tutors specialize in Common Core standards and can help students understand what is expected of them and assist them with the required skills needed to succeed in elementary school English. Contact Elite Home Tutoring for questions or information concerning ELA/Literacy Common Core standards and tutoring, www.elitehometutoring.com.
What is the California High School Proficiency Examination (CHSPE)? The CHSPE is a timed test that measures a student’s knowledge and proficiency in reading, writing, and math. Passing students will earn a Certificate of Proficiency by the California State Board of Education, which is recognized in California as an equivalent to a high school diploma. The exam allows students currently enrolled in high school to earn the certificate and leave high school early to go to college or start working. Who can take the CHSPE Exam? Students currently enrolled in public high schools in the state of California can take the CHSPE Exam if they are at least 16 years of age and are in the second half of their their sophomore year or later. The exam is only valid for students in the California public school system. If the student plans on attending a college in another state, they must verify with the college if it will accept the exam. Which subjects are on the CHSPE Exam? The CHSPE Exam covers English Language Arts, including an essay, and Math. The English section covers reading comprehension, spelling, grammar, and writing skills which correspond to tenth grade English in the California public school system. There are 84 multiple choice questions in the English section, plus an essay. The essay question is open-ended and requires students to outline and present their point of view. The Math section covers math skills learned in seventh, eighth, ninth, and tenth grade in the California public schools system. There are 50 questions in the math section and the focus is on daily math problems and situations. The CHSPE Exam is timed test, and lasts three and a half hours. Students must pass both the English and math sections of the exam, but can retake the test as many times as needed. How can tutoring help prepare for the CHSPE Exam? Since the CHSPE Exam covers several years of high school, a specialized tutor can help students prepare for the exam. Contact Elite Home Tutoring for questions or information concerning the CHSPE Exam, www.elitehometutoring.com