The State of Texas rejected “Common Core” and developed its own standards (TEKS), tailored to state priorities. Other states (originally over 40) adopted the Common Core for consistency, particularly in Math and English Language Arts. TEKS often include more detailed and prescriptive language about what to teach and when.
Additionally, TEKS places a strong emphasis on factual knowledge, especially in Social Studies (e.g., founding documents, Texas history). In math, TEKS often follows a different scope and sequence than Common Core (e.g., teaching multiplication or geometry concepts at different grade levels).
Texas uses its own statewide standardized tests (STAAR) aligned to TEKS. Other states use different assessments aligned to the Common Core or state-modified versions (such as SBAC, PARCC, or their own tests). Texas public schools are required to follow the TEKS, but implementation can still vary somewhat between districts.
Texas TEKS checklists are tools that break down the official TEKS into clear, trackable items that parents and educators can use to monitor learning progress.
Key Points About TEKS:
- Created and overseen by the Texas Education Agency (TEA).
- Required for all public schools, and many private and homeschool programs use them as guidelines.
- TEKS cover all core subjects, including:
- English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR)
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Fine Arts
- Physical Education
- Technology Applications
- Career and Technical Education (CTE)
- Languages Other Than English (LOTE)
- TEKS are grade-specific, from Pre-K through 12th grade, with increasing complexity as students advance.
- They are designed to ensure consistency and rigor, helping students become college- and career-ready.
Example:
A 3rd-grade math TEKS might include:
“The student is expected to represent and solve one- and two-step multiplication and division problems within 100 using arrays, strip diagrams, and equations.”
For Homeschoolers:
Although not required, many Texas homeschoolers use TEKS to:
- Ensure their curriculum is on grade level
- Prepare for state assessments (if reentering public school)
- Align with college or career prep goals
How TEKS Checklists Help Homeschooling Parents
Clarify Learning Goals
TEKS checklists give homeschooling parents a clear, grade-specific outline of what students are expected to learn in each subject—such as math, science, reading, social studies, and more. This helps ensure academic coverage and progression.
Guide Curriculum Planning
Parents can use checklists to:
- Align their homeschool curriculum with grade-level expectations
- Choose or adapt resources that meet the required knowledge and skills
- Identify gaps or overlaps across multiple curricula or learning tools
Track Progress
Checklists act as simple assessment tools. Parents can check off skills as the student masters them, creating a visual record of progress. This can be especially helpful for:
- Organizing portfolios
- Preparing for standardized testing
- Reporting to umbrella schools or meeting recordkeeping requirements
Provide Flexibility with Structure
TEKS checklists support personalized pacing. Homeschooling parents can:
- Move ahead when a student masters content early
- Spend more time on difficult topics
- Still ensure coverage of state-grade benchmarks without rigid daily requirements
Support College and Career Readiness
Following TEKS helps ensure homeschooled students are prepared for:
- Re-entry into public school (if needed)
- College entrance exams (e.g., SAT/ACT)
- Career and technical education aligned with Texas standards
Promote Confidence in Instruction
For parents unsure if they’re “doing enough,” TEKS checklists provide a roadmap. They offer peace of mind that the child is on track academically and meeting or exceeding Texas standards.
