This framework is designed to help classroom teachers and other educators develop curriculum and instruction in the arts so that all students will meet or exceed the content standards in dance, music, theatre, and the visual arts. In chapter 1, the framework presents guiding principles for instruction in dance, music, theatre, and the visual arts. The following chapter guides the planning, implementation, and evaluation of comprehensive, standards-based visual and performing arts education programs. Chapter 3 presents the key content standards for kindergarten through grade 8 that provide a beginning point for standards-based instruction; the complete content standards in dance, music, theatre, and the visual arts for kindergarten through grade 8; and the content standards for the beginning or proficient level and advanced level for grades 9 through 12. Chapter 4 guides curriculum development for comprehensive, standards-based visual and performing arts education programs. Information on the purpose and forms of assessment in the arts is provided in chapter 5. This is followed by a chapter presenting details on teacher preparation and professional development for each arts discipline. Finally, criteria for the evaluation of instructional materials in the arts for kindergarten through grade eight is provided in the closing chapter. The framework also includes a glossary of terms and an extensive list of selected references and resources. Appended are: (1) Education Code Sections Governing Arts Education Programs; (2) Recommendations for Clarification of the New Visual and Performing Arts Requirement for Freshman Admission to the University of California and the California State University; (3) Careers in the Visual and Performing Arts; (4) Continuum for Implementing Arts Education Programs; (5) Copyright Law and the Visual and Performing Arts; (6) Guidelines for the Safe Use of Art and Craft Materials; and (7) Funding for Arts Education Programs. The original print version is accompanied by a CD of the artwork featured throughout the book.

This publication is available from the California Arts Council.  See: http://cac.ca.gov/artsinfo/files/Pubs-order-form-2010.pdf