In an effort to ensure that all U.S. students are equally prepared for college and careers, new academic standards for Kindergarten through 12th grade have been established and adopted by nearly every state. Idiot's Guides: The Common Core Standards helps parents, students, teachers, and administrators understand the details of this historic initiative. An outline of what makes these standards different from previous statewide standards; a grade level breakdown of the standards for English, math, and other subject areas; details of how students' learning will change under the Common Core; ways parents can help students at home; information on the assessments that students will take; and answers to the most commonly asked questions are all included.