The principles were intended to guide the development of American high schools and were based on the idea that secondary education should provide practical training for all students, regardless of their future plans.
The seven principles are:
Health, which emphasized the importance of physical education and hygiene.
Command of Fundamental Processes, which focused on developing basic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics.
Worthy Home Membership, which encouraged students to learn how to manage their homes and families effectively.
Vocational Efficiency, which stressed the importance of preparing students for jobs in a rapidly changing economy.
Civic Education, which sought to develop good citizens who were informed about public affairs and participated in civic life.
Worthy Use of Leisure Time, which promoted the development of hobbies and interests that would enrich students' lives.
Ethical Character, which emphasized the importance of moral development and good character. The Seven Cardinal Principles served as a guiding
framework for American secondary education for many years.
They inspired curriculum reforms and changes in teaching methods that were designed to make high schools more practical and relevant to the needs of all students.