The implementation of a new set of national educational standards in Marin schools has led teachers to stress informational texts and evidence-based composition in classrooms this year.
The Common Core standards, newly adopted by 45 states, also bring a new approach to testing. California students will be given draft tests this spring that involve
less multiple-choice questions and more writing, and which adapt in real time to test-takers’ performance. These “field tests” will help inform…