For example, to assess arithmetic, number and operations concepts, the measurable objectives used include the pupil being able to demonstrate an understanding of the relative magnitude of numbers, being able to accurately solve problems involving proportional reasoning and applying properties of numbers. These criteria would be assessed and supported through documentation as evidence. To assess the overall depth of knowledge of each pupil, the attainment of each measurable objective is compared to a standardized chart in order to assess the level of achievement reached (Department of Education, n.d.). The Department of Education Web site also supplies teachers supplementary materials which outline the required knowledge which must be demonstrated by the pupil to attain each measurable objective. The materials meet the first aim of the strategic plan, as they are designed to promote high-quality instruction, in such a way as to improve student achievement. The provision of these materials is aimed at standardizing the taught and tested curriculum across the state, which should increase student achievement. The materials also do not really address the second goal of the strategic plan, although this is concerned predominantly with leadership within the school rather than curriculum areas, therefore it is likely to be covered by other areas of guidance provided by the Department of Education which relate specifically to leadership in education. The curriculum guidance also does not address the third goal specifically, although this is something which is difficult to do through such means. This goal is achievable predominantly through the learned curriculum rather than the taught curriculum, so it is more about the ways in which the individual schools themselves shape the learning environment. The curriculum guidance may go some way to addressing the fourth aim of the strategic plan, as the curriculum would have been designed with consideration to the needs of external institutions, such as colleges and employers as well as society as a whole. The curriculum guidance ensures that...

Finally, the curriculum guidance also helps to practice and promote effective use of all resources as they offer guidance on the taught curriculum which may be used when planning the resources to be used.
The information in the strategic plan and the assessment materials do provide adequate leadership and support to help students in Vermont to achieve excellence. The guidance provides adequate leadership through example, for instance by showing the exact components which each child must demonstrate to achieve the standards, this takes any uncertainty out of the process for the teachers. This standardization should ensure excellence across the state.