Smart implementation of the Common Core State Standards requires both an overall understanding of the standards and a grasp of their implications for planning, teaching, and learning.

This Quick-Start Guide provides a succinct, all-in-one look at :

* The content, structure, terminology, and emphases of the Common Core standards for English language arts and literacy at the high school level.

* The meaning of the individual standards within the four ELA strands Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening, and Language.

* How the standards connect across strands, grade bands, and content areas to help students develop the communication and analytical skills essential for college and career readiness.

* The areas of the ELA standards that represent the most significant changes to business as usual. Here, teachers and school leaders will find information they need to begin adapting their practices to ensure all students master the new and challenging material the standards present.