Aligning with Standards

Why This Matters

YPAR is academically rigorous, inquiry-based work. It strengthens student skills in research, writing, critical thinking, collaboration, and civic engagement. Making explicit connections to your subject area’s standards can help secure administrative support and build long-term sustainability.

Reflection Prompts 

What standards align with the YPAR process?
Check any that apply to your subject area:

☐ Research (designing questions, collecting/analyzing data)
☐ Speaking & Listening (interviews, focus groups, presentations)
☐ Argument Writing (persuasive essays, op-eds, policy memos)
☐ Expository/Informative Writing (reporting findings, writing up analysis)
☐ Media Literacy (creating videos, infographics, digital storytelling)
☐ Civic Engagement / Action (policy proposals, public testimony)
☐ Social-Emotional Learning (collaboration, self-reflection, identity development)
☐ Other: __________________________

What kinds of final products could serve as authentic assessments?
(e.g., presentations, papers, zines, videos, community exhibits, public testimony)

 Which standards or learning outcomes do those products already meet?
(Think rubrics you already use or can adapt.)

Who do you need to share this alignment with (admin, co-teachers, parents)? How might you do that proactively?
(e.g., planning meeting, sample rubric, draft timeline)