The PA Core Standards of Reading and Writing in History and Social Studies describe what students in the social studies classroom should know and be able to do with the English language in reading and writing, grade 6 through 12. The standards provide the targets for instruction and student learning essential for success in all academic areas, not just language arts classrooms. The Standards also provide parents and community members with information about what students should know and be able to do as they progress through the educational program and at graduation. With a clearly defined target provided by the standards, parents, students, educators and community members become partners in learning. Each standard implies an end of year goal – with the understanding that exceeding the standard is an even more desirable end goal.

The PA Core Standards for Reading in History and Social Studies are an extension of the Academic Standards for History.