NAEP Frameworks

NAEP frameworks provide the blueprint for the content and design of each NAEP assessment. 

For each framework, the Governing Board works with a committee of subject matter experts, practitioners, and members of the general public — including researchers, educators, business leaders, and policymakers — to develop a rich and rigorous set of standards that define what students should know and be able to do in a particular subject.

In order to measure trends in student performance, NAEP frameworks are designed to remain stable for as long as possible. At the same time, all frameworks are responsive to changes in national and international standards and curricula. Without advocating any particular approach to instruction, NAEP frameworks provide a starting point for constructive conversations about high-quality educational standards and assessments.