Frameworks in Curriculum Development

A curriculum framework is a subject-specific document that presents parameters to assist in the development of a curriculum and identifies learning outcomes for what schoolchildren are expected to know and be able to do as they relate to the knowledge and skills of a particular discipline. It provides direction to local districts and schools as they develop their curricula.

A framework is not a curriculum guide nor is it designed to be used as an instrument for the delivery of instruction. It can be used as a major resource for the development of regional or schools' curricula, instruction, and performance assessments and for professional development. Standards of achievement for subject areas are generally included in curriculum frameworks. Thus, curriculum frameworks provide the basis for teaching, learning, ...