In plain and understandable language these Standards of Learning outline the basic knowledge and skills that Virginia schoolchildren should be taught as they progress from kindergarten through the 12th grade, in the four essential academic subjects of English, math, science, and social studies (history, geography and government). Representing the minimum learning objectives in the core academic areas, these standards were developed by Virginia's State Board of Education. Listed by grade level within each subject area, the standards also contain minimum computer and technology skills that students should acquire by the end of Grade 5 and Grade 8.