A fourth key strategy is based on what kind of standards for students?

• A. Close curricula for all
• B. External only tests
• C. Random activities
• D. Competency standards for students

Answer: (D)

Clear, student-focused outcomes guide instruction. This item asks what kind of standards should anchor a fourth key strategy. The best choice is competency standards for students because they define explicit, observable abilities students should demonstrate. When teachers use competency standards, instruction, assessments, and learning activities are aligned to those outcomes, making progress measurable and communication with students and families clearer. Other options don’t provide a framework for student mastery: closing curricula for all suggests restricting what’s taught without clear outcomes; external-only tests emphasize measurement over guiding daily learning; random activities lack a deliberate link to what students should be able to do. Basing strategies on competency standards creates a coherent path from instruction to demonstrated mastery.