The Pennsylvania state academic standards describe what students should know and should be able to achieve at the end of grades 3, 5, 8 and 12 in the visual and performing arts, and the understanding about humanities context within the arts. The arts include dance, music, theater, and visual arts. The arts and humanities are interconnected through the inclusion of history, criticism, and aesthetics. In addition, the humanities include literature and language, philosophy, social studies, and world languages. The areas encompassed in the humanities such as jurisprudence, comparative religions, and ethics are included among other standards documents. The interconnected arts and humanities areas are divided into four standards categories: (1) "9.1. Production, Performance and Exhibition of Dance, Music, Theater, and Visual Arts"; (2) "9.2. Historical and Cultural Contexts"; (3) "9.3 Critical Response"; (4) "9.4. Aesthetic Response." Knowledge of the academic standards for the arts and humanities incorporates carefully developed and integrated components: application of problem-solving skills; extensive practice in the comprehension of basic symbol systems and abstract concepts; application of technical skills in practical production and performance; comprehension and application of the creative process; development and practice of creative thinking skills; and development of verbal and nonverbal communication skills. These standards provide the targets essential for success in student learning in arts and humanities. They describe the expectations for student achievement and performance at each grade level in Pennsylvania schools. A glossary of terms is included. (BT)