Essential Academic Learning Requirements (EALRs) and Grade Level Expectations (GLEs)

Understanding the EALRs and GLEs

An Essential Academic Learning Requirement (EALR) is a broad statement of the learning, what we expect each student to know and be able to do, that applies to a content standard for grades K-10.

The Component is a K-10 statement that further defines the EALR. There is at least one component for each EALR.

The Grade Level Expectation (GLE) is a statement of the essential content or process to be learned. The statement, specific to one or more grades, defines the Component for that grade.

The Evidence of Learning is a bulleted list of student demonstrations that provide educators with common illustrations of the learning. Because the bulleted list is not exhaustive, educators are encouraged to seek additional evidence of student learning. The examples (e.g.) are cross-curricular as often as possible to illustrate how writing is used across disciplines.

The GLE Numbering System identifies the EALR, the Component, and the GLE. For example, in the number 3.2.1, the first number stands for the EALR, the second for the Component, the third for the GLE. Grade levels or bands are not referenced in the numbering system.  See the following example:

WRITING EALR 3---The student writes clearly and effectively

Component 3.2: Uses appropriate style.

GLE 3.2.1  Writes with voice
• Uses word choice to show emotion and interest
• Uses “book language”(e.g., fairy tale language -- “once upon a time,” or “in a faraway land”)

As of December 2005, Grade Level Expectations have been defined for the subject areas of Reading, Math, Writing, Science and Communication. The other core subjects – Social Studies, Arts, and Health and Fitness – have development indicators or benchmarks and/or draft Grade Level Expectations.

To view Washington State curriculum and the Essential Academic Learning Requirements are available by content area in their entirety, click here.  There is also a wide variety of information and resources available at the website of the Washington State Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction.

It may be helpful to view the standards for a specific grade level as opposed to looking at an entire content area. You will find the EALRs and GLEs organized by grade level to the right.