The term EALRs (pronounced "eelers") is an acronym for Essential Academic Learning Requirements. EALRs are the result of efforts that began in 1993 to improve education standards in Washington state. EALRs were created by the State Commission on Student Learning to define expectations for student achievement in eight academic areas. These areas are reading, writing, mathematics, communication, science, the arts, social studies, and health and fitness.

The state tests students on the EALRs at grades 4, 7, and 10 using the Washington Assessments of Student Learning (WASL). These tests are designed to assess whether or not students are achieving the state EALRs. The Washington State Historical Society is aligning its online curriculum with the EALRs to support student achievement at their respective grade levels. You will notice charts in each lesson plan that indicate how that curricular unit helps students achieve EALRs in a number of disciplines, including but not limited to history.

For more information on EALRs, WASL, and grade level requirements in each discipline, please refer to the Office of State Public Instruction website.