Core Knowledge, Amplify, and “Free” Materials
In April 2013, Core Knowledge (CK) entered into a business arrangement with Rupert Murdoch’s Amplify regarding CK’s Language Arts K-3 curriculum:
Amplify Learning is pleased to announce it has signed an exclusive license agreement with the Core Knowledge Foundation for 20-year rights to its widely respected Core Knowledge Language Arts program for grades for K-3 (CK ELA K3).[Emphasis added.]
Given that Amplify is a company, its goal is to garner profits. In signing CK, Amplify is ahead of the market, for CK is already aligned with the cash-cow-producing Common Core State Standards (CCSS):
Known for its scientifically based content and approach, Core Knowledge’s influential work anticipated the Common Core State Standards, so its practices and philosophy are true to the rigorous spirit of the standards and exemplify the manner in which they ought to be implemented.
Thus, Amplify is in a fine position to benefit handsomely from CK in its plans to nationally market CK ELA K3 (and beyond):
Through this partnership with Core Knowledge, Amplify Learning will develop and market to schools nationwide a unique, effective reading and language arts program