School Curriculum: Overview Of United States Curriculum

The goal of a school curriculum is to provide students with the comprehensive learning experience needed to become a well-rounded and contributing citizen. The United States (US) education system allows for flexibility in how a subject is taught. While state or national standards provide a foundation for what students must know, understand, and be able to do by the end of a course or grade level, school districts and educators are able to construct units of study that are student-centered and allow for inquiry, exploration, critical thinking, and the transfer of real-world knowledge and skills.

Not only do all US institutions accept the diploma, but institutions around the world do as well. Recognizing the intricacies of the United States curriculum and what sets it apart from respected international organizations and curricula can be difficult for many parents looking for ideal schools for their children.

What Does US Curriculum Look Like?

While academic standards vary by state, most districts offer a plethora of co-curricular activities that allow students to explore their interests and develop well-rounded individuals. Further, educators provide a differentiated, inquiry-based, and hands-on instructional approach to provide an engaging and personalized educational experience for all students. The United States educational system strives to offer a comprehensive array of courses that allows students to make informed choices regarding their future pursuits based on a diverse K-12 experience.

In-Depth Overview of School Curriculum

• Elementary (Grades K-5)

Elementary school spans a wide range of child development.  Beginning in kindergarten, incoming 5 year olds have their first school experience and learn the concepts of print, letters, and basic numeracy while also becoming socialized to the school experience.  As students progress through elementary school, reading, basic math, and understanding  of foundational concepts in other subjects are primary goals of the curriculum.  Upper elementary curriculum begins to explore more complex topics like economics, U.S. history, and sciences.  Elementary curriculum includes important learning opportunities and exposure to non-core subjects such as the fine arts, physical education, computer science, and languages.

• Middle School (Grades 6-8)

The curriculum in middle school transitions students from the elementary school experience to high school.  Middle school students begin to choose some of their courses and get to more deeply explore non-core subjects.  By 8th grade, students, parents, counselors, administrators, and teachers work together to help determine a student’s course of study for high school.  

• High School (Grades 9 - 12)

The high school curriculum typically consists of diverse course offerings including Honors or Advanced Placement, the IB Diploma program, or a magnet program in the arts, math, or aeronautics. Although specific requirements change from school to school, many schools require students to earn a total of 26 credits to get a regular High School Diploma.  Graduation credits must be achieved in core content areas, but can also include a requirement to complete credits in electives and volunteer experiences.

Transcripts, Report Cards, and Grades

A transcript is an official record of a student’s coursework and grades. A grade point average (GPA) is calculated to communicate a student’s overall academic success in school. Typically, a GPA is a 4 point system based upon letter grades in which an A, the highest grade, is given 4 points, B’s 3, C’s 2, and D’s 1. Although the four point system is typical, many school districts weigh some courses more heavily, such as Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, or honors courses because of their increased rigor and academic demands.  This practice acknowledges the rigor and demand and encourages and rewards students for enrolling in an academically rigorous course load.

Highlights of United States Curriculum

• Provides an opportunity for exploration

One of the most significant advantages of the United States public school system is the degree of student autonomy it provides. Students have the option to enroll in courses that align with their interests and post secondary goals.  For college bound students, many schools offer dual-credit courses in which students can simultaneously earn high school and college credit. Many schools offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses which allow a student to take an exam and earn college credit by demonstrating mastery of the course content.  For students who wish to pursue technical training or a trade, schools offer a wide variety of courses that teach trades and skills that are needed to work in many different industries.  Further, students can earn certifications through coursework, community partnerships, and professional internships that connect them to the industry while still in high school.  Regardless of the student’s plans, all paths earn an accredited diploma at graduation. These choices empower students and allow them to actively shape their education and future.

• Student-centered approach to creativity

The United States education system promotes creativity, invention, and critical thinking.  Further, the student-centered focus of the United States educational system along with its transparent communication and community involvement and collaboration add to its recognized success.

• Child's overall holistic development

The United States public education system is much more than curriculum and coursework, it offers students extracurricular activities such as sports, performing arts, special interest groups and clubs, and volunteer organizations. Furthermore,  the curriculum encourages students to get involved in the community through volunteerism and internship programs.

• A focus on relationships

The intention of the United States education system is that it is a partnership between educators, students, parents, and the community.  Educators are encouraged to build strong relationships with their students and get to know their interests so that lessons can be engaging and impactful.  Further, students are able to confide in their teachers for issues within and beyond the walls of the school.  Finally, the United States education system values involving the community in schools through partnerships, volunteer opportunities, and more.

Cons of the American Curriculum

• Standardized testing is emphasized

In the United States, accountability testing to ensure alignment with standards is conducted on a state level, but mandated by the federal government.   At the local level, school districts develop a variety of formative and summative assessments to diagnose and quantify student learning and achievement.

Many argue that judging schools, teachers and students on student test scores is not a fair or accurate efficacy measure. Many opponents claim that standardized testing is one of the most serious issues in United States education, claiming that the pressure to get high test scores leads to a teach-to-the-test approach and a lack of concentration on non-tested content.

• Education's technological challenges

Although today's children have grown up with technology and have learned to use it in the classroom effectively, there are debates regarding the role technology should play in education. While supporters argue that technology allows for more active student participation and will play a significant role in a student's future, others argue that it may be a distraction and does not allow students to function when it is not available.  Another conversation that surrounds this issue is equity as not all students have access to the same technology. While there are many advantages to using technology in the classroom, there are also some drawbacks.