A collaborative set of educational standards adopted by the majority of U.S. states to ensure consistent, high-quality learning goals in K-12 education. The fra
United States
A collaborative set of educational standards adopted by the majority of U.S. states to ensure consistent, high-quality learning goals in K-12 education. The framework focuses on college and career readiness through rigorous content and the application of knowledge via higher-order thinking skills.
A collaborative set of educational standards adopted by the majority of U.S. states to ensure consistent, high-quality learning goals in K-12 education. The framework focuses on college and career readiness through rigorous content and the application of knowledge via higher-order thinking skills.
Year Adopted: 2010 (CCSS), 2013 (NGSS/C3)
Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3, Grade 4, Grade 5, Grade 6, Grade 7, Grade 8, High School (9-10), High School (11-12)
With prompting and support, ask and answer questions about key details in a text.
Key skills: Ask questions, Answer questionsWith prompting and support, retell familiar stories, including key details.
Key skills: Retell stories, Identify detailsWith prompting and support, identify characters, settings, and major events in a story.
Key skills: Identify characters, Identify settingsAsk and answer questions about unknown words in a text.
Key skills: Vocabulary inquiry, Word meaningRecognize common types of texts (e.g., storybooks, poems).
Key skills: Text types, Genre recognitionWith prompting and support, name the author and illustrator and define the role of each in telling the story.
Key skills: Identify author, Identify illustratorWith prompting and support, describe the relationship between illustrations and the story in which they appear.
Key skills: Analyze illustrations, Visual literacyWith prompting and support, compare and contrast the adventures and experiences of characters in familiar stories.
Key skills: Compare characters, Contrast experiencesActively engage in group reading activities with purpose and understanding.
Key skills: Group reading, EngagementWith prompting and support, ask and answer questions about key details in a text.
Key skills: Ask questions, Identify detailsWith prompting and support, identify the main topic and retell key details of a text.
Key skills: Identify topic, Retell detailsWith prompting and support, describe the connection between two individuals, events, ideas, or pieces of information.
Key skills: Describe connections, Identify relationshipsWith prompting and support, ask and answer questions about unknown words in a text.
Key skills: Vocabulary inquiry, Word meaningIdentify the front cover, back cover, and title page of a book.
Key skills: Book parts, Text featuresName the author and illustrator of a text and define the role of each in presenting ideas.
Key skills: Identify author, Identify illustratorWith prompting and support, describe the relationship between illustrations and the text in which they appear.
Key skills: Analyze illustrations, Visual literacyWith prompting and support, identify the reasons an author gives to support points in a text.
Key skills: Identify reasons, Support pointsWith prompting and support, identify basic similarities in and differences between two texts on the same topic.
Key skills: Compare texts, Contrast informationActively engage in group reading activities with purpose and understanding.
Key skills: Group reading, EngagementDemonstrate understanding of the organization and basic features of print.
Key skills: Print concepts, OrganizationFollow words from left to right, top to bottom, and page by page.
Key skills: Directionality, TrackingRecognize that spoken words are represented in written language by specific sequences of letters.
Key skills: Word representation, Letter sequencesUnderstand that words are separated by spaces in print.
Key skills: Word spacing, Print awarenessRecognize and name all upper- and lowercase letters of the alphabet.
Key skills: Letter recognition, Alphabet namingDemonstrate understanding of spoken words, syllables, and sounds (phonemes).
Key skills: Phonological awareness, Sound recognitionRecognize and produce rhyming words.
Key skills: Rhyming, Sound patternsCount, pronounce, blend, and segment syllables in spoken words.
Key skills: Syllable counting, BlendingBlend and segment onsets and rimes of single-syllable spoken words.
Key skills: Onsets and rimes, BlendingIsolate and pronounce the initial, medial vowel, and final sounds (phonemes) in three-phoneme (CVC) words.
Key skills: Phoneme isolation, CVC wordsAdd or substitute individual sounds (phonemes) in simple, one-syllable words to make new words.
Key skills: Sound substitution, Word manipulationKnow and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills in decoding words.
Key skills: Phonics, DecodingDemonstrate basic knowledge of one-to-one letter-sound correspondences for each consonant.
Key skills: Letter-sound correspondence, ConsonantsAssociate the long and short sounds with common spellings (graphemes) for the five major vowels.
Key skills: Vowel sounds, GraphemesRead common high-frequency words by sight (e.g., the, of, to, you, she, my, is, are, do, does).
Key skills: Sight words, High-frequency wordsDistinguish between similarly spelled words by identifying the sounds of the letters that differ.
Key skills: Word discrimination, Letter soundsRead emergent-reader texts with purpose and understanding.
Key skills: Emergent reading, ComprehensionUse drawing, dictating, and writing to compose opinion pieces, stating an opinion or preference about a topic or book.
Key skills: Opinion writing, State preferenceUse drawing, dictating, and writing to compose informative/explanatory texts, naming the topic and supplying information.
Key skills: Informative writing, Supply informationUse drawing, dictating, and writing to narrate a single event or several events in order and provide a reaction.
Key skills: Narrative writing, Event sequencingWith guidance and support from adults, respond to questions and suggestions from peers and add details.
Key skills: Revision, Peer feedbackWith guidance and support from adults, explore a variety of digital tools to produce and publish writing.
Key skills: Digital tools, PublishingParticipate in shared research and writing projects (e.g., explore books by a favorite author).
Key skills: Shared research, Writing projectsWith guidance and support from adults, recall information from experiences or gather information to answer a question.
Key skills: Recall information, Answer questionsParticipate in collaborative conversations with diverse partners about kindergarten topics and texts.
Key skills: Collaborative conversation, Group discussionFollow agreed-upon rules for discussions (e.g., listening to others and taking turns speaking).
Key skills: Discussion rules, Turn-takingContinue a conversation through multiple exchanges.
Key skills: Conversation flow, Multiple exchangesConfirm understanding of a text read aloud or information presented orally by asking and answering questions.
Key skills: Confirm understanding, Ask questionsAsk and answer questions in order to seek help, get information, or clarify something not understood.
Key skills: Seek help, Clarify informationDescribe familiar people, places, things, and events and, with prompting and support, provide additional detail.
Key skills: Description, Provide detailAdd drawings or other visual displays to descriptions as desired to provide additional detail.
Key skills: Visual displays, Add drawingsSpeak audibly and express thoughts, feelings, and ideas clearly.
Key skills: Audible speaking, Clear expressionDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
Key skills: Grammar, Standard EnglishPrint many upper- and lowercase letters.
Key skills: Letter printing, HandwritingUse frequently occurring nouns and verbs.
Key skills: Nouns, VerbsForm regular plural nouns orally by adding /s/ or /es/ (e.g., dog, dogs; wish, wishes).
Key skills: Plural nouns, Oral languageUnderstand and use question words (interrogatives) (e.g., who, what, where, when, why, how).
Key skills: Question words, InterrogativesUse the most frequently occurring prepositions (e.g., to, from, in, out, on, off, for, of, by, with).
Key skills: Prepositions, Grammar usageProduce and expand complete sentences in shared language activities.
Key skills: Sentence production, Sentence expansionDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.
Key skills: Capitalization, PunctuationCapitalize the first word in a sentence and the pronoun I.
Key skills: Capitalization, Sentence structureRecognize and name end punctuation.
Key skills: End punctuation, Punctuation namingWrite a letter or letters for most consonant and short-vowel sounds (phonemes).
Key skills: Letter-sound writing, PhonemesSpell simple words phonetically, drawing on knowledge of sound-letter relationships.
Key skills: Phonetic spelling, Sound-letter relationshipsDetermine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases.
Key skills: Word meaning, Multiple-meaning wordsIdentify new meanings for familiar words and apply them accurately.
Key skills: Word context, New meaningsUse frequently occurring inflections and affixes as a clue to the meaning of an unknown word.
Key skills: Inflections, AffixesWith guidance and support from adults, explore word relationships and nuances in word meanings.
Key skills: Word relationships, NuanceSort common objects into categories (e.g., shapes, foods) to gain a sense of the concepts.
Key skills: Categorization, Concept sortingDemonstrate understanding of frequently occurring verbs and adjectives by relating them to their opposites (antonyms).
Key skills: Antonyms, Verbs and adjectivesIdentify real-life connections between words and their use (e.g., note places at school that are colorful).
Key skills: Real-life connections, Word usageDistinguish shades of meaning among verbs describing the same general action by acting out the meanings.
Key skills: Shades of meaning, Verb nuancesUse words and phrases acquired through conversations, reading and being read to, and responding to texts.
Key skills: Vocabulary acquisition, Word usageAsk and answer questions about key details in a text.
Key skills: Questioning, Detail identificationRetell stories, including key details, and demonstrate understanding of their central message or lesson.
Key skills: Retelling, Central messageDescribe characters, settings, and major events in a story, using key details.
Key skills: Character analysis, Story elementsIdentify words and phrases in stories or poems that suggest feelings or appeal to the senses.
Key skills: Sensory language, Emotional contextExplain major differences between books that tell stories and books that give information.
Key skills: Text types, Genre comparisonIdentify who is telling the story at various points in a text.
Key skills: Point of view, Narrator identificationUse illustrations and details in a story to describe its characters, setting, or events.
Key skills: Visual analysis, Text-to-image connectionCompare and contrast the adventures and experiences of characters in stories.
Key skills: Comparison, Character experiencesWith prompting and support, read prose and poetry of appropriate complexity for grade 1.
Key skills: Reading fluency, Text complexityAsk and answer questions about key details in a text.
Key skills: Inquiry, Evidence gatheringIdentify the main topic and retell key details of a text.
Key skills: Main topic, Detail recallDescribe the connection between two individuals, events, ideas, or pieces of information in a text.
Key skills: Making connections, Informational relationshipsAsk and answer questions to help determine or clarify the meaning of words and phrases in a text.
Key skills: Vocabulary acquisition, Context cluesKnow and use various text features to locate key facts or information in a text.
Key skills: Text features, Information locationDistinguish between information provided by pictures and information provided by words.
Key skills: Visual vs. textual, Information sourcingUse the illustrations and details in a text to describe its key ideas.
Key skills: Visual evidence, Key ideasIdentify the reasons an author gives to support points in a text.
Key skills: Author's purpose, Supporting evidenceIdentify basic similarities in and differences between two texts on the same topic.
Key skills: Comparative reading, Topic analysisWith prompting and support, read informational texts appropriately complex for grade 1.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexityRecognize the distinguishing features of a sentence (e.g., first word, capitalization, ending punctuation).
Key skills: Sentence structure, Print conceptsDistinguish long from short vowel sounds in spoken single-syllable words.
Key skills: Phonological awareness, Vowel soundsOrally produce single-syllable words by blending sounds (phonemes), including consonant blends.
Key skills: Blending, Phoneme manipulationIsolate and pronounce initial, medial vowel, and final sounds (phonemes) in spoken single-syllable words.
Key skills: Sound isolation, Phoneme identificationSegment spoken single-syllable words into their complete sequence of individual sounds (phonemes).
Key skills: Segmentation, Phonemic awarenessKnow the spelling-sound correspondences for common consonant digraphs.
Key skills: Digraphs, PhonicsDecode regularly spelled one-syllable words.
Key skills: Decoding, Word recognitionKnow final -e and common vowel team conventions for representing long vowel sounds.
Key skills: Long vowels, Vowel teamsUse knowledge that every syllable must have a vowel sound to determine the number of syllables.
Key skills: Syllabication, Vowel soundsDecode two-syllable words following basic patterns by breaking the words into syllables.
Key skills: Multisyllabic decoding, Syllable patternsRead words with inflectional endings.
Key skills: Inflectional endings, SuffixesRecognize and read grade-appropriate irregularly spelled words.
Key skills: Sight words, Irregular spellingRead grade-level text with purpose and understanding.
Key skills: Fluency, ComprehensionRead grade-level text orally with accuracy, appropriate rate, and expression.
Key skills: Oral reading, ProsodyUse context to confirm or self-correct word recognition and understanding.
Key skills: Self-correction, Context cluesWrite opinion pieces, state an opinion, supply a reason, and provide some sense of closure.
Key skills: Opinion writing, ReasoningWrite informative/explanatory texts, name a topic, supply some facts, and provide closure.
Key skills: Informative writing, Fact supplyWrite narratives recounting sequenced events, including details and temporal words.
Key skills: Narrative writing, SequencingWith guidance, focus on a topic, respond to questions, and add details to strengthen writing.
Key skills: Revision, CollaborationWith guidance, use digital tools to produce and publish writing, including in collaboration.
Key skills: Digital tools, PublishingParticipate in shared research and writing projects.
Key skills: Shared research, InquiryWith guidance, recall information from experiences or gather information to answer a question.
Key skills: Recall, Information gatheringFollow agreed-upon rules for discussions (e.g., listening to others, speaking one at a time).
Key skills: Discussion rules, Active listeningBuild on others' talk in conversations by responding to the comments of others.
Key skills: Collaborative talk, RespondingAsk questions to clear up any confusion about the topics and texts under discussion.
Key skills: Clarification, QuestioningAsk and answer questions about key details in a text read aloud or information presented orally.
Key skills: Auditory comprehension, Detail recallAsk and answer questions about what a speaker says to gather information or clarify.
Key skills: Clarification, Active listeningDescribe people, places, things, and events with relevant details, expressing ideas clearly.
Key skills: Oral description, ClarityAdd drawings or other visual displays to descriptions to clarify ideas, thoughts, and feelings.
Key skills: Visual aids, ClarificationProduce complete sentences when appropriate to task and situation.
Key skills: Sentence production, Oral languagePrint all upper- and lowercase letters.
Key skills: Handwriting, Letter formationUse common, proper, and possessive nouns.
Key skills: Noun usage, GrammarUse singular and plural nouns with matching verbs in basic sentences.
Key skills: Subject-verb agreement, Noun numberUse personal, possessive, and indefinite pronouns.
Key skills: Pronoun usage, GrammarUse verbs to convey a sense of past, present, and future.
Key skills: Verb tense, GrammarUse frequently occurring adjectives.
Key skills: Adjective usage, DescriptionUse frequently occurring conjunctions (e.g., and, but, or, so, because).
Key skills: Conjunctions, Sentence structureUse determiners (e.g., articles, demonstratives).
Key skills: Determiners, GrammarUse frequently occurring prepositions (e.g., during, beyond, toward).
Key skills: Prepositions, GrammarProduce and expand complete simple and compound declarative, interrogative, imperative, and exclamatory sentences.
Key skills: Sentence types, Sentence expansionCapitalize dates and names of people.
Key skills: Capitalization, MechanicsUse end punctuation for sentences.
Key skills: Punctuation, MechanicsUse commas in dates and to separate single words in a series.
Key skills: Commas, MechanicsUse conventional spelling for words with common spelling-sound correspondences and irregular words.
Key skills: Spelling, PhonicsSpell untaught words phonetically, drawing on phonemic awareness and spelling conventions.
Key skills: Phonetic spelling, Phonemic awarenessUse sentence-level context as a clue to the meaning of a word or phrase.
Key skills: Context clues, VocabularyUse frequently occurring affixes as a clue to the meaning of a word.
Key skills: Affixes, Word analysisIdentify frequently occurring root words and their inflectional forms.
Key skills: Root words, Inflectional formsSort words into categories to gain a sense of the concepts the categories represent.
Key skills: Categorization, Concept developmentDefine words by category and by one or more key attributes.
Key skills: Definition, AttributesIdentify real-life connections between words and their use.
Key skills: Word connections, Contextual usageDistinguish shades of meaning among verbs differing in manner and adjectives differing in intensity.
Key skills: Shades of meaning, NuanceUse words and phrases acquired through conversations, reading, and responding to texts.
Key skills: Vocabulary acquisition, Language useAsk and answer such questions as who, what, where, when, why, and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text.
Key skills: Questioning, Detail identificationRecount stories, including fables and folktales from diverse cultures, and determine their central message, lesson, or moral.
Key skills: Retelling, Central messageDescribe how characters in a story respond to major events and challenges.
Key skills: Character analysis, Event responseDescribe how words and phrases supply rhythm and meaning in a story, poem, or song.
Key skills: Word choice, Rhythm and meaningDescribe the overall structure of a story, including how the beginning introduces the story and the ending concludes the action.
Key skills: Story structure, Plot sequenceAcknowledge differences in the points of view of characters, including by speaking in a different voice for each character when reading dialogue aloud.
Key skills: Point of view, Dialogue performanceUse information gained from the illustrations and words in a print or digital text to demonstrate understanding of its characters, setting, or plot.
Key skills: Visual analysis, Text integrationCompare and contrast two or more versions of the same story by different authors or from different cultures.
Key skills: Comparative analysis, Cultural versionsBy the end of the year, read and comprehend literature, including stories and poetry, in the grades 2-3 text complexity band proficiently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexityAsk and answer such questions as who, what, where, when, why, and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text.
Key skills: Questioning, Detail identificationIdentify the main topic of a multiparagraph text as well as the focus of specific paragraphs within the text.
Key skills: Main topic, Paragraph focusDescribe the connection between a series of historical events, scientific ideas or concepts, or steps in technical procedures in a text.
Key skills: Connections, Sequential eventsDetermine the meaning of words and phrases in a text relevant to a grade 2 topic or subject area.
Key skills: Vocabulary, Context cluesKnow and use various text features to locate key facts or information in a text efficiently.
Key skills: Text features, Information retrievalIdentify the main purpose of a text, including what the author wants to answer, explain, or describe.
Key skills: Author's purpose, Text analysisExplain how specific images contribute to and clarify a text.
Key skills: Visual clarification, Image analysisDescribe how reasons support specific points the author makes in a text.
Key skills: Supporting reasons, Argument analysisCompare and contrast the most important points presented by two texts on the same topic.
Key skills: Comparative analysis, Point identificationBy the end of year, read and comprehend informational texts in the grades 2-3 text complexity band proficiently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexityKnow and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills in decoding words.
Key skills: Phonics, DecodingDistinguish long and short vowels when reading regularly spelled one-syllable words.
Key skills: Vowel sounds, DecodingKnow spelling-sound correspondences for additional common vowel teams.
Key skills: Vowel teams, PhonicsDecode regularly spelled two-syllable words with long vowels.
Key skills: Multisyllabic decoding, Long vowelsDecode words with common prefixes and suffixes.
Key skills: Affixes, Word analysisIdentify words with inconsistent but common spelling-sound correspondences.
Key skills: Irregular spelling, Word recognitionRecognize and read grade-appropriate irregularly spelled words.
Key skills: Sight words, Irregular decodingRead with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension.
Key skills: Fluency, AccuracyRead grade-level text with purpose and understanding.
Key skills: Purposeful reading, ComprehensionRead grade-level text orally with accuracy, appropriate rate, and expression on successive readings.
Key skills: Oral reading, ExpressionUse context to confirm or self-correct word recognition and understanding, rereading as necessary.
Key skills: Self-correction, Context cluesWrite opinion pieces in which they introduce the topic, state an opinion, supply reasons, use linking words, and provide a concluding statement.
Key skills: Opinion writing, Linking wordsWrite informative/explanatory texts in which they introduce a topic, use facts and definitions to develop points, and provide a concluding statement.
Key skills: Explanatory writing, Fact usageWrite narratives in which they recount a well-elaborated event, include details to describe actions and feelings, use temporal words, and provide closure.
Key skills: Narrative writing, Temporal wordsWith guidance and support from adults and peers, focus on a topic and strengthen writing as needed by revising and editing.
Key skills: Revising, EditingWith guidance and support from adults, use a variety of digital tools to produce and publish writing, including in collaboration with peers.
Key skills: Digital publishing, CollaborationParticipate in shared research and writing projects.
Key skills: Shared research, Collaborative writingRecall information from experiences or gather information from provided sources to answer a question.
Key skills: Information gathering, RecallParticipate in collaborative conversations with diverse partners about grade 2 topics and texts with peers and adults.
Key skills: Collaboration, ConversationFollow agreed-upon rules for discussions (e.g., gaining the floor in respectful ways, listening to others with care).
Key skills: Discussion rules, ListeningBuild on others' talk in conversations by linking their comments to the remarks of others.
Key skills: Linking comments, Active listeningAsk for clarification and further explanation as needed about the topics and texts under discussion.
Key skills: Clarification, InquiryRecount or describe key ideas or details from a text read aloud or information presented orally or through other media.
Key skills: Oral retelling, Detail identificationAsk and answer questions about what a speaker says in order to clarify comprehension or gather additional information.
Key skills: Questioning, ClarificationTell a story or recount an experience with appropriate facts and relevant, descriptive details, speaking audibly in coherent sentences.
Key skills: Oral presentation, Descriptive detailCreate audio recordings of stories or poems; add drawings or other visual displays to clarify ideas, thoughts, and feelings.
Key skills: Audio recording, Visual aidsProduce complete sentences when appropriate to task and situation in order to provide requested detail or clarification.
Key skills: Sentence production, Oral clarityDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
Key skills: Grammar, UsageUse collective nouns (e.g., group).
Key skills: Collective nouns, GrammarForm and use frequently occurring irregular plural nouns (e.g., feet, children, teeth, mice, fish).
Key skills: Irregular plurals, GrammarUse reflexive pronouns (e.g., myself, ourselves).
Key skills: Reflexive pronouns, GrammarForm and use the past tense of frequently occurring irregular verbs (e.g., sat, hid, told).
Key skills: Irregular verbs, Verb tenseUse adjectives and adverbs, and choose between them depending on what is to be modified.
Key skills: Adjectives, AdverbsProduce, expand, and rearrange complete simple and compound sentences.
Key skills: Sentence structure, Sentence expansionDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.
Key skills: Capitalization, PunctuationCapitalize holidays, product names, and geographic names.
Key skills: Proper nouns, CapitalizationUse commas in greetings and closings of letters.
Key skills: Commas, Letter writingUse an apostrophe to form contractions and frequently occurring possessives.
Key skills: Apostrophes, ContractionsGeneralize learned spelling patterns when writing words (e.g., cage -> badge; boy -> boil).
Key skills: Spelling patterns, PhonicsConsult reference materials, including beginning dictionaries, as needed to check and correct spellings.
Key skills: Reference materials, Spelling correctionUse knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening.
Key skills: Language conventions, Contextual usageCompare formal and informal uses of English.
Key skills: Formal vs informal, Language registerDetermine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grade 2 reading and content.
Key skills: Vocabulary, Word meaningUse sentence-level context as a clue to the meaning of a word or phrase.
Key skills: Context clues, VocabularyDetermine the meaning of the new word formed when a known prefix is added to a known word.
Key skills: Prefixes, Word formationUse a known root word as a clue to the meaning of an unknown word with the same root.
Key skills: Root words, Word analysisUse knowledge of the meaning of individual words to predict the meaning of compound words.
Key skills: Compound words, PredictionUse glossaries and beginning dictionaries to determine or clarify the meaning of words and phrases.
Key skills: Reference tools, Word meaningDemonstrate understanding of word relationships and nuances in word meanings.
Key skills: Word relationships, NuanceIdentify real-life connections between words and their use (e.g., describe foods that are spicy or juicy).
Key skills: Real-life connections, VocabularyDistinguish shades of meaning among closely related verbs and closely related adjectives.
Key skills: Shades of meaning, SynonymsUse words and phrases acquired through conversations, reading and being read to, and responding to texts.
Key skills: Vocabulary acquisition, Language useAsk and answer questions to demonstrate understanding of a text, referring explicitly to the text as the basis for the answers.
Key skills: Text evidence, QuestioningRecount stories, including fables, folktales, and myths; determine the central message, lesson, or moral and explain how it is conveyed through key details.
Key skills: Recounting stories, Central messageDescribe characters in a story (e.g., their traits, motivations, or feelings) and explain how their actions contribute to the sequence of events.
Key skills: Character analysis, Plot contributionDetermine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, distinguishing literal from nonliteral language.
Key skills: Word meaning, Literal vs nonliteralRefer to parts of stories, dramas, and poems, using terms such as chapter, scene, and stanza; describe how each successive part builds on earlier sections.
Key skills: Text structure, Story partsDistinguish their own point of view from that of the narrator or those of the characters.
Key skills: Point of view, PerspectiveExplain how specific aspects of a text's illustrations contribute to what is conveyed by the words in a story (e.g., create mood, emphasize aspects of character).
Key skills: Visual analysis, Mood/SettingCompare and contrast the themes, settings, and plots of stories written by the same author about the same or similar characters.
Key skills: Comparative analysis, Themes/PlotsBy the end of the year, read and comprehend literature at the high end of the grades 2-3 text complexity band independently and proficiently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexityAsk and answer questions to demonstrate understanding of a text, referring explicitly to the text as the basis for the answers.
Key skills: Text evidence, QuestioningDetermine the main idea of a text; recount the key details and explain how they support the main idea.
Key skills: Main idea, Key detailsDescribe the relationship between historical events, scientific ideas, or steps in technical procedures, using language that pertains to time, sequence, and cause/effect.
Key skills: Relationship analysis, Cause/EffectDetermine the meaning of general academic and domain-specific words and phrases in a text relevant to a grade 3 topic or subject area.
Key skills: Academic vocabulary, Domain-specific wordsUse text features and search tools (e.g., key words, sidebars, hyperlinks) to locate information relevant to a given topic efficiently.
Key skills: Text features, Search toolsDistinguish their own point of view from that of the author of a text.
Key skills: Point of view, Author's perspectiveUse information gained from illustrations and the words in a text to demonstrate understanding (e.g., where, when, why, and how key events occur).
Key skills: Visual information, Text integrationDescribe the logical connection between particular sentences and paragraphs in a text (e.g., comparison, cause/effect, sequence).
Key skills: Logical connections, Text structureCompare and contrast the most important points and key details presented in two texts on the same topic.
Key skills: Comparative analysis, Key pointsBy the end of the year, read and comprehend informational texts at the high end of the grades 2-3 text complexity band independently and proficiently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Informational textKnow and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills in decoding words.
Key skills: Phonics, Word analysisIdentify and know the meaning of the most common prefixes and derivational suffixes.
Key skills: Prefixes, SuffixesDecode words with common Latin suffixes.
Key skills: Latin suffixes, DecodingDecode multisyllable words.
Key skills: Multisyllable words, DecodingRead grade-appropriate irregularly spelled words.
Key skills: Irregular spelling, Word recognitionRead with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension.
Key skills: Fluency, AccuracyRead grade-level text with purpose and understanding.
Key skills: Purposeful reading, ComprehensionRead grade-level prose and poetry orally with accuracy, appropriate rate, and expression on successive readings.
Key skills: Oral reading, ExpressionUse context to confirm or self-correct word recognition and understanding, rereading as necessary.
Key skills: Self-correction, Context cluesWrite opinion pieces on topics or texts, using reasons to support one's point of view.
Key skills: Opinion writing, ArgumentationIntroduce the topic or text, state an opinion, and create an organizational structure that lists reasons.
Key skills: Topic introduction, Opinion statementProvide reasons that support the opinion.
Key skills: Supporting reasons, EvidenceUse linking words and phrases (e.g., because, therefore, since, for example) to connect opinion and reasons.
Key skills: Linking words, TransitionsProvide a concluding statement or section.
Key skills: Conclusion, ClosureWrite informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly.
Key skills: Informative writing, Explanatory writingIntroduce a topic and group related information together; include illustrations when useful to aiding comprehension.
Key skills: Topic introduction, Information groupingDevelop the topic with facts, definitions, and details.
Key skills: Fact development, DetailsUse linking words and phrases (e.g., also, another, and, more, but) to connect ideas within categories of information.
Key skills: Linking words, TransitionsProvide a concluding statement or section.
Key skills: Conclusion, ClosureWrite narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, descriptive details, and clear event sequences.
Key skills: Narrative writing, StorytellingEstablish a situation and introduce a narrator and/or characters; organize an event sequence that unfolds naturally.
Key skills: Narrative situation, Event sequenceUse dialogue and descriptions of actions, thoughts, and feelings to develop experiences and events.
Key skills: Dialogue, DescriptionUse temporal words and phrases to signal event order.
Key skills: Temporal words, SequenceProvide a sense of closure.
Key skills: Closure, EndingWith guidance and support from adults, produce writing in which the development and organization are appropriate to task and purpose.
Key skills: Writing production, Task alignmentWith guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, and editing.
Key skills: Revision, EditingWith guidance and support from adults, use technology to produce and publish writing as well as to interact and collaborate with others.
Key skills: Digital publishing, CollaborationConduct short research projects that build knowledge about a topic.
Key skills: Research, Knowledge buildingRecall information from experiences or gather information from print and digital sources; take brief notes and sort evidence into categories.
Key skills: Information gathering, Note-takingWrite routinely over extended and shorter time frames for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.
Key skills: Routine writing, Writing staminaEngage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.
Key skills: Collaborative discussion, CommunicationCome to discussions prepared, having read or studied required material; explicitly draw on that preparation to explore ideas.
Key skills: Preparation, DiscussionFollow agreed-upon rules for discussions (e.g., gaining the floor in respectful ways, listening to others with care).
Key skills: Discussion rules, Respectful listeningAsk questions to check understanding of information presented, stay on topic, and link their comments to the remarks of others.
Key skills: Questioning, Staying on topicExplain their own ideas and understanding in light of the discussion.
Key skills: Idea explanation, SynthesisDetermine the main ideas and supporting details of a text read aloud or information presented in diverse media and formats.
Key skills: Main idea, Media analysisAsk and answer questions about information from a speaker, offering appropriate elaboration and detail.
Key skills: Speaker questioning, ElaborationReport on a topic or text, tell a story, or recount an experience with appropriate facts and relevant, descriptive details.
Key skills: Reporting, Oral presentationCreate engaging audio recordings of stories or poems; add visual displays when appropriate to emphasize certain facts or details.
Key skills: Audio recording, Visual displaysSpeak in complete sentences when appropriate to task and situation in order to provide requested detail or clarification.
Key skills: Complete sentences, Formal speakingDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
Key skills: Grammar, UsageExplain the function of nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs in general and their functions in particular sentences.
Key skills: Parts of speech, Word functionForm and use regular and irregular plural nouns.
Key skills: Plural nouns, Irregular formsUse abstract nouns (e.g., childhood).
Key skills: Abstract nouns, UsageForm and use regular and irregular verbs.
Key skills: Verb forms, Irregular verbsForm and use the simple (e.g., I walked; I walk; I will walk) verb tenses.
Key skills: Verb tenses, Simple tensesEnsure subject-verb and pronoun-antecedent agreement.
Key skills: Subject-verb agreement, Pronoun-antecedent agreementForm and use comparative and superlative adjectives and adverbs.
Key skills: Adjectives, AdverbsUse coordinating and subordinating conjunctions.
Key skills: Conjunctions, Sentence structureProduce simple, compound, and complex sentences.
Key skills: Sentence types, Sentence varietyDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.
Key skills: Capitalization, PunctuationCapitalize appropriate words in titles.
Key skills: Capitalization, TitlesUse commas in addresses.
Key skills: Commas, AddressesUse commas and quotation marks in dialogue.
Key skills: Dialogue punctuation, Quotation marksForm and use possessives.
Key skills: Possessives, ApostrophesUse conventional spelling for high-frequency and other studied words and for adding suffixes to base words.
Key skills: Spelling, SuffixesUse spelling patterns and generalizations (e.g., word families, syllable patterns) in writing words.
Key skills: Spelling patterns, Word familiesConsult reference materials, including beginning dictionaries, as needed to check and correct spellings.
Key skills: Reference materials, Dictionary useUse knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening.
Key skills: Language knowledge, StyleChoose words and phrases for effect.
Key skills: Word choice, EffectRecognize and observe differences between the conventions of spoken and written standard English.
Key skills: Standard English, RegisterDetermine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grade 3 reading and content.
Key skills: Vocabulary acquisition, Context cluesUse sentence-level context as a clue to the meaning of a word or phrase.
Key skills: Context clues, Word meaningDetermine the meaning of the new word formed when a known affix is added to a known word.
Key skills: Affixes, Word formationUse a known root word as a clue to the meaning of an unknown word with the same root.
Key skills: Root words, Word familiesUse glossaries or beginning dictionaries to determine or clarify the precise meaning of key words and phrases.
Key skills: Reference tools, GlossariesDemonstrate understanding of word relationships and nuances in word meanings.
Key skills: Word relationships, NuanceDistinguish the literal and nonliteral meanings of words and phrases in context (e.g., take steps).
Key skills: Literal meaning, Nonliteral meaningIdentify real-life connections between words and their use (e.g., describe people who are friendly or helpful).
Key skills: Word connections, Real-life applicationDistinguish shades of meaning among related words that describe states of mind or degrees of certainty.
Key skills: Shades of meaning, SynonymsAcquire and use accurately grade-appropriate conversational, general academic, and domain-specific words and phrases.
Key skills: Academic vocabulary, Domain-specific wordsRefer to details and examples in a text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when drawing inferences from the text.
Key skills: Textual evidence, InferenceDetermine a theme of a story, drama, or poem from details in the text; summarize the text.
Key skills: Theme determination, SummarizationDescribe in depth a character, setting, or event in a story or drama, drawing on specific details in the text.
Key skills: Character analysis, Setting descriptionDetermine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including those that allude to significant characters found in mythology.
Key skills: Context clues, Mythological allusionsExplain major differences between poems, drama, and prose, and refer to the structural elements of poems and drama when writing or speaking about a text.
Key skills: Text structure, Genre comparisonCompare and contrast the point of view from which different stories are narrated, including the difference between first- and third-person narrations.
Key skills: Point of view, Narrative comparisonMake connections between the text of a story or drama and a visual or oral presentation of the text.
Key skills: Media comparison, Visual analysisCompare and contrast the treatment of similar themes and topics and patterns of events in stories, myths, and traditional literature from different cultures.
Key skills: Cross-cultural comparison, Thematic analysisBy the end of the year, read and comprehend literature in the grades 4-5 text complexity band proficiently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexityRefer to details and examples in a text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when drawing inferences from the text.
Key skills: Explicit details, InferenceDetermine the main idea of a text and explain how it is supported by key details; summarize the text.
Key skills: Main idea, SummarizationExplain events, procedures, ideas, or concepts in a historical, scientific, or technical text, based on specific information in the text.
Key skills: Explanatory analysis, Textual evidenceDetermine the meaning of general academic and domain-specific words or phrases in a text relevant to a grade 4 topic or subject area.
Key skills: Vocabulary acquisition, Domain-specific termsDescribe the overall structure of events, ideas, concepts, or information in a text or part of a text.
Key skills: Text structure, Organizational patternsCompare and contrast a firsthand and secondhand account of the same event or topic; describe the differences in focus and information provided.
Key skills: Account comparison, Perspective analysisInterpret information presented visually, orally, or quantitatively and explain how the information contributes to an understanding of the text.
Key skills: Visual interpretation, Data analysisExplain how an author uses reasons and evidence to support particular points in a text.
Key skills: Argument analysis, Evidence evaluationIntegrate information from two texts on the same topic in order to write or speak about the subject knowledgeably.
Key skills: Information integration, SynthesisBy the end of year, read and comprehend informational texts in the grades 4-5 text complexity band proficiently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexityKnow and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills in decoding words.
Key skills: Phonics, DecodingUse combined knowledge of all letter-sound correspondences, syllabication patterns, and morphology to read accurately unfamiliar multisyllabic words.
Key skills: Multisyllabic decoding, MorphologyRead with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension.
Key skills: Fluency, AccuracyRead grade-level text with purpose and understanding.
Key skills: Purposeful reading, ComprehensionRead grade-level prose and poetry orally with accuracy, appropriate rate, and expression on successive readings.
Key skills: Oral reading, ExpressionUse context to confirm or self-correct word recognition and understanding, rereading as necessary.
Key skills: Self-correction, Context cluesWrite opinion pieces on topics or texts, supporting a point of view with reasons and information.
Key skills: Opinion writing, ArgumentationIntroduce a topic or text clearly, state an opinion, and create an organizational structure in which related ideas are grouped.
Key skills: Introduction, OrganizationProvide reasons that are supported by facts and details.
Key skills: Supporting details, Fact-based reasoningLink opinion and reasons using words and phrases (e.g., for instance, in order to, in addition).
Key skills: Transitions, Linking ideasProvide a concluding statement or section related to the opinion presented.
Key skills: Conclusion, ClosureWrite informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly.
Key skills: Informative writing, Explanatory writingIntroduce a topic clearly and group related information in paragraphs and sections; include formatting, illustrations, and multimedia when useful.
Key skills: Topic introduction, FormattingDevelop the topic with facts, definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples related to the topic.
Key skills: Topic development, EvidenceLink ideas within categories of information using words and phrases (e.g., another, for example, also, because).
Key skills: Transitions, CohesionUse precise language and domain-specific vocabulary to inform about or explain the topic.
Key skills: Precise language, VocabularyProvide a concluding statement or section related to the information or explanation presented.
Key skills: Conclusion, ClosureWrite narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, descriptive details, and clear event sequences.
Key skills: Narrative writing, StorytellingOrient the reader by establishing a situation and introducing a narrator and/or characters; organize an event sequence that unfolds naturally.
Key skills: Setting the scene, SequencingUse narrative techniques, such as dialogue, description, and pacing, to develop experiences and events or show the responses of characters.
Key skills: Dialogue, PacingUse a variety of transitional words and phrases to manage the sequence of events.
Key skills: Transitions, Temporal wordsUse concrete words and phrases and sensory details to convey experiences and events precisely.
Key skills: Sensory details, Descriptive languageProvide a conclusion that follows from the narrated experiences or events.
Key skills: Conclusion, ResolutionProduce clear and coherent writing in which the development and organization are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
Key skills: Coherent writing, Audience awarenessWith guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, and editing.
Key skills: Revision, EditingWith some guidance and support from adults, use technology to produce and publish writing as well as to interact and collaborate with others.
Key skills: Digital publishing, CollaborationConduct short research projects that build knowledge through investigation of different aspects of a topic.
Key skills: Research, InquiryRecall relevant information from experiences or gather relevant information from print and digital sources; take notes and categorize information.
Key skills: Information gathering, Note-takingDraw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.
Key skills: Evidence-based writing, AnalysisApply grade 4 Reading standards to literature.
Key skills: Literary analysis, EvidenceApply grade 4 Reading standards to informational texts.
Key skills: Informational analysis, EvidenceWrite routinely over extended time frames and shorter time frames for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.
Key skills: Writing stamina, Task adaptationEngage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners on grade 4 topics and texts.
Key skills: Collaboration, DiscussionCome to discussions prepared, having read or studied required material; explicitly draw on that preparation to explore ideas under discussion.
Key skills: Preparation, Evidence-based talkFollow agreed-upon rules for discussions and carry out assigned roles.
Key skills: Discussion rules, Role fulfillmentPose and respond to specific questions to clarify or follow up on information, and make comments that contribute to the discussion.
Key skills: Questioning, Active listeningReview the key ideas expressed and explain their own ideas and understanding in light of the discussion.
Key skills: Reflection, SynthesisParaphrase portions of a text read aloud or information presented in diverse media and formats, including visually, quantitatively, and orally.
Key skills: Paraphrasing, Media literacyIdentify the reasons and evidence a speaker provides to support particular points.
Key skills: Listening comprehension, Evidence identificationReport on a topic or text, tell a story, or recount an experience in an organized manner, using appropriate facts and relevant, descriptive details.
Key skills: Oral presentation, OrganizationAdd audio recordings and visual displays to presentations when appropriate to enhance the development of main ideas or themes.
Key skills: Multimedia integration, Presentation skillsDifferentiate between contexts that call for formal English and situations where informal discourse is appropriate.
Key skills: Formal vs informal, Speech adaptationDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
Key skills: Grammar, UsageUse relative pronouns (who, whose, whom, which, that) and relative adverbs (where, when, why).
Key skills: Relative pronouns, Relative adverbsForm and use the progressive (e.g., I was walking; I am walking; I will be walking) verb tenses.
Key skills: Verb tenses, Progressive aspectUse modal auxiliaries (e.g., can, may, must) to convey various conditions.
Key skills: Modal verbs, Conditional languageOrder adjectives within sentences according to conventional patterns (e.g., a small red bag rather than a red small bag).
Key skills: Adjective order, Sentence structureForm and use prepositional phrases.
Key skills: Prepositional phrases, SyntaxProduce complete sentences, recognizing and correcting inappropriate fragments and run-ons.
Key skills: Sentence completion, Error correctionCorrectly use frequently confused words (e.g., to, too, two; there, their).
Key skills: Homophones, Word usageDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.
Key skills: Capitalization, PunctuationUse correct capitalization.
Key skills: Capitalization, Proper nounsUse commas and quotation marks to mark direct speech and quotations from a text.
Key skills: Quotation marks, Direct speechUse a comma before a coordinating conjunction in a compound sentence.
Key skills: Commas, Compound sentencesSpell grade-appropriate words correctly, consulting references as needed.
Key skills: Spelling, Reference toolsUse knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening.
Key skills: Language application, ConventionsChoose words and phrases to convey ideas precisely.
Key skills: Word choice, PrecisionChoose punctuation for effect.
Key skills: Punctuation, Stylistic effectDifferentiate between contexts that call for formal English and situations where informal discourse is appropriate.
Key skills: Register, Formal vs informalDetermine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grade 4 reading and content.
Key skills: Vocabulary, Word meaningUse context as a clue to the meaning of a word or phrase.
Key skills: Context clues, InferenceUse common, grade-appropriate Greek and Latin affixes and roots as clues to the meaning of a word.
Key skills: Affixes, RootsConsult reference materials to find the pronunciation and determine or clarify the precise meaning of key words and phrases.
Key skills: Reference materials, Dictionary skillsDemonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.
Key skills: Figurative language, Word relationshipsExplain the meaning of simple similes and metaphors in context.
Key skills: Similes, MetaphorsRecognize and explain the meaning of common idioms, adages, and proverbs.
Key skills: Idioms, ProverbsDemonstrate understanding of words by relating them to their opposites and to words with similar but not identical meanings.
Key skills: Antonyms, SynonymsAcquire and use accurately grade-appropriate general academic and domain-specific words and phrases.
Key skills: Vocabulary acquisition, Academic languageQuote accurately from a text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when drawing inferences from the text.
Key skills: Textual evidence, InferenceDetermine a theme of a story, drama, or poem from details in the text, including how characters respond to challenges; summarize the text.
Key skills: Theme determination, SummarizationCompare and contrast two or more characters, settings, or events in a story or drama, drawing on specific details in the text.
Key skills: Character analysis, Comparative analysisDetermine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative language such as metaphors and similes.
Key skills: Vocabulary, Figurative languageExplain how a series of chapters, scenes, or stanzas fits together to provide the overall structure of a particular story, drama, or poem.
Key skills: Text structure, Structural analysisDescribe how a narrator's or speaker's point of view influences how events are described.
Key skills: Point of view, Narrative perspectiveAnalyze how visual and multimedia elements contribute to the meaning, tone, or beauty of a text.
Key skills: Multimedia analysis, Visual literacyCompare and contrast stories in the same genre on their approaches to similar themes and topics.
Key skills: Genre comparison, Thematic analysisBy the end of the year, read and comprehend literature at the high end of the grades 4-5 text complexity band independently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexityQuote accurately from a text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when drawing inferences from the text.
Key skills: Evidence citation, InferenceDetermine two or more main ideas of a text and explain how they are supported by key details; summarize the text.
Key skills: Main idea, SummarizationExplain the relationships or interactions between two or more individuals, events, ideas, or concepts in a historical, scientific, or technical text.
Key skills: Relationship analysis, Textual connectionsDetermine the meaning of general academic and domain-specific words and phrases in a text relevant to a grade 5 topic or subject area.
Key skills: Academic vocabulary, Context cluesCompare and contrast the overall structure (e.g., chronology, comparison, cause/effect) of events, ideas, or information in two or more texts.
Key skills: Text structure, Comparative analysisAnalyze multiple accounts of the same event or topic, noting important similarities and differences in the point of view they represent.
Key skills: Point of view, Comparative analysisDraw on information from multiple print or digital sources, demonstrating the ability to locate an answer or solve a problem efficiently.
Key skills: Information synthesis, Research skillsExplain how an author uses reasons and evidence to support particular points in a text, identifying which reasons support which point(s).
Key skills: Argument analysis, Evidence evaluationIntegrate information from several texts on the same topic in order to write or speak about the subject knowledgeably.
Key skills: Synthesis, Knowledge integrationBy the end of the year, read and comprehend informational texts at the high end of the grades 4-5 text complexity band independently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexityKnow and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills in decoding words.
Key skills: Phonics, DecodingUse combined knowledge of all letter-sound correspondences, syllabication patterns, and morphology to read unfamiliar multisyllabic words.
Key skills: Morphology, SyllabicationRead with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension.
Key skills: Fluency, AccuracyRead on-level text with purpose and understanding.
Key skills: Purposeful reading, ComprehensionRead on-level prose and poetry orally with accuracy, appropriate rate, and expression on successive readings.
Key skills: Oral reading, ExpressionUse context to confirm or self-correct word recognition and understanding, rereading as necessary.
Key skills: Self-correction, Context cluesWrite opinion pieces on topics or texts, supporting a point of view with reasons and information.
Key skills: Opinion writing, ArgumentationIntroduce a topic or text clearly, state an opinion, and create an organizational structure to support the writer's purpose.
Key skills: Organization, IntroductionProvide logically ordered reasons that are supported by facts and details.
Key skills: Logical reasoning, Supporting detailsLink opinion and reasons using words, phrases, and clauses (e.g., consequently, specifically).
Key skills: Transitions, CohesionProvide a concluding statement or section related to the opinion presented.
Key skills: Conclusion, SynthesisWrite informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly.
Key skills: Informative writing, Explanatory writingIntroduce a topic clearly, provide a general observation, and group related information logically; include formatting and multimedia.
Key skills: Organization, FormattingDevelop the topic with facts, definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples.
Key skills: Elaboration, EvidenceLink ideas within and across categories of information using words, phrases, and clauses (e.g., in contrast, especially).
Key skills: Transitions, CohesionUse precise language and domain-specific vocabulary to inform about or explain the topic.
Key skills: Precise language, VocabularyProvide a concluding statement or section related to the information or explanation presented.
Key skills: Conclusion, SynthesisWrite narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, descriptive details, and clear event sequences.
Key skills: Narrative writing, Descriptive detailsOrient the reader by establishing a situation and introducing a narrator and/or characters; organize an event sequence.
Key skills: Introduction, SequencingUse narrative techniques, such as dialogue, description, and pacing, to develop experiences and events.
Key skills: Dialogue, PacingUse a variety of transitional words, phrases, and clauses to manage the sequence of events.
Key skills: Transitions, SequencingUse concrete words and phrases and sensory details to convey experiences and events precisely.
Key skills: Sensory details, Precise languageProvide a conclusion that follows from the narrated experiences or events.
Key skills: Conclusion, ResolutionProduce clear and coherent writing in which the development and organization are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
Key skills: Coherence, Audience awarenessWith guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, or rewriting.
Key skills: Writing process, RevisionWith some guidance and support from adults, use technology to produce and publish writing as well as to interact and collaborate with others.
Key skills: Digital publishing, CollaborationConduct short research projects that use several sources to build knowledge through investigation of different aspects of a topic.
Key skills: Research, InquiryRecall relevant information from experiences or gather relevant information from print and digital sources; summarize or paraphrase information.
Key skills: Information gathering, ParaphrasingDraw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.
Key skills: Evidence citation, AnalysisApply grade 5 Reading standards to literature (e.g., compare and contrast characters, settings, or events).
Key skills: Literary analysis, EvidenceApply grade 5 Reading standards to informational texts (e.g., explain how an author uses reasons and evidence).
Key skills: Informational analysis, EvidenceWrite routinely over extended time frames and shorter time frames for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.
Key skills: Writing stamina, Task flexibilityEngage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners on grade 5 topics and texts.
Key skills: Collaboration, DiscussionCome to discussions prepared, having read or studied required material; explicitly draw on that preparation to explore ideas.
Key skills: Preparation, Evidence-based discussionFollow agreed-upon rules for discussions and carry out assigned roles.
Key skills: Discussion rules, Role responsibilityPose and respond to specific questions by making comments that contribute to the discussion and elaborate on the remarks of others.
Key skills: Questioning, ElaborationReview the key ideas expressed and draw conclusions in light of information and knowledge gained from the discussions.
Key skills: Summarization, Conclusion drawingSummarize a written text read aloud or information presented in diverse media and formats, including visually, quantitatively, and orally.
Key skills: Summarization, Media literacySummarize the points a speaker makes and explain how each claim is supported by reasons and evidence.
Key skills: Listening comprehension, Argument analysisReport on a topic or text or present an opinion, sequencing ideas logically and using appropriate facts and relevant details.
Key skills: Oral presentation, OrganizationInclude multimedia components and visual displays in presentations when appropriate to enhance the development of main ideas or themes.
Key skills: Multimedia integration, Visual aidsAdapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, using formal English when appropriate to task and situation.
Key skills: Speech adaptation, Formal languageDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
Key skills: Grammar, UsageExplain the function of conjunctions, prepositions, and interjections in general and their function in particular sentences.
Key skills: Parts of speech, Sentence functionForm and use the perfect (e.g., I had walked; I have walked; I will have walked) verb tenses.
Key skills: Verb tense, Perfect tenseUse verb tense to convey various times, sequences, states, and conditions.
Key skills: Verb tense, Sequence of eventsRecognize and correct inappropriate shifts in verb tense.
Key skills: Verb consistency, EditingUse correlative conjunctions (e.g., either/or, neither/nor).
Key skills: Conjunctions, Sentence structureDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.
Key skills: Capitalization, PunctuationUse punctuation to separate items in a series.
Key skills: Commas, Series punctuationUse a comma to separate an introductory element from the rest of the sentence.
Key skills: Commas, Introductory elementsUse a comma to set off the words yes and no, to set off a tag question, and to indicate direct address.
Key skills: Commas, Direct addressUse underlining, quotation marks, or italics to indicate titles of works.
Key skills: Titles, FormattingSpell grade-appropriate words correctly, consulting references as needed.
Key skills: Spelling, Reference useUse knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening.
Key skills: Language application, StyleExpand, combine, and reduce sentences for meaning, reader/listener interest, and style.
Key skills: Sentence variety, StyleCompare and contrast the varieties of English (e.g., dialects, registers) used in stories, dramas, or poems.
Key skills: Dialects, RegistersDetermine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grade 5 reading and content.
Key skills: Vocabulary, Word meaningUse context (e.g., cause/effect relationships and comparisons in text) as a clue to the meaning of a word or phrase.
Key skills: Context clues, Word meaningUse common, grade-appropriate Greek and Latin affixes and roots as clues to the meaning of a word.
Key skills: Affixes, RootsConsult reference materials to find the pronunciation and determine or clarify the precise meaning of key words and phrases.
Key skills: Reference materials, Dictionary skillsDemonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.
Key skills: Figurative language, NuanceInterpret figurative language, including similes and metaphors, in context.
Key skills: Similes, MetaphorsRecognize and explain the meaning of common idioms, adages, and proverbs.
Key skills: Idioms, ProverbsUse the relationship between particular words (e.g., synonyms, antonyms, homographs) to better understand each of the words.
Key skills: Synonyms, AntonymsAcquire and use accurately grade-appropriate general academic and domain-specific words and phrases.
Key skills: Academic vocabulary, Word acquisitionCite textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
Key skills: Textual evidence, InferenceDetermine a theme or central idea of a text and how it is conveyed through particular details; provide a summary of the text.
Key skills: Theme determination, SummarizingDescribe how a particular story's or drama's plot unfolds in a series of episodes as well as how the characters respond or change.
Key skills: Plot analysis, Character developmentDetermine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative and connotative meanings.
Key skills: Word meaning, Figurative languageAnalyze how a particular sentence, chapter, scene, or stanza fits into the overall structure of a text and contributes to the theme.
Key skills: Text structure, Structural analysisExplain how an author develops the point of view of the narrator or speaker in a text.
Key skills: Point of view, Author's craftCompare and contrast the experience of reading a story, drama, or poem to listening to or viewing an audio, video, or live version.
Key skills: Media comparison, Sensory detailsCompare and contrast texts in different forms or genres in terms of their approaches to similar themes and topics.
Key skills: Genre comparison, Thematic analysisBy the end of the year, read and comprehend literature in the grades 6-8 text complexity band proficiently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexityCite textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
Key skills: Textual evidence, InferenceDetermine a central idea of a text and how it is conveyed through particular details; provide a summary of the text.
Key skills: Central idea, SummarizingAnalyze in detail how a key individual, event, or idea is introduced, illustrated, and elaborated in a text.
Key skills: Detail analysis, Idea developmentDetermine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative, connotative, and technical meanings.
Key skills: Technical vocabulary, Word meaningAnalyze how a particular sentence, paragraph, chapter, or section fits into the overall structure and contributes to the development of ideas.
Key skills: Text structure, Idea developmentDetermine an author's point of view or purpose in a text and explain how it is conveyed in the text.
Key skills: Author's purpose, Point of viewIntegrate information presented in different media or formats as well as in words to develop a coherent understanding of a topic.
Key skills: Information integration, Media literacyTrace and evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text, distinguishing claims supported by reasons from those that are not.
Key skills: Argument evaluation, Claim analysisCompare and contrast one author's presentation of events with that of another (e.g., a memoir written by and a biography on the same person).
Key skills: Comparative analysis, Authorial perspectiveBy the end of the year, read and comprehend literary nonfiction in the grades 6-8 text complexity band proficiently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexityWrite arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
Key skills: Argument writing, Claims and evidenceIntroduce claim(s) and organize the reasons and evidence clearly.
Key skills: Organization, Claim introductionSupport claim(s) with clear reasons and relevant evidence, using credible sources and demonstrating an understanding of the topic.
Key skills: Evidence usage, Credible sourcesUse words, phrases, and clauses to clarify the relationships among claim(s) and reasons.
Key skills: Transitions, CohesionEstablish and maintain a formal style.
Key skills: Formal style, ToneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from the argument presented.
Key skills: Conclusion, Argumentative structureWrite informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection and analysis of relevant content.
Key skills: Expository writing, Information analysisIntroduce a topic; organize ideas, concepts, and information, using strategies such as definition, classification, comparison/contrast, and cause/effect.
Key skills: Topic introduction, Organization strategiesDevelop the topic with relevant facts, definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples.
Key skills: Topic development, Supporting detailsUse appropriate transitions to clarify the relationships among ideas and concepts.
Key skills: Transitions, ClarityUse precise language and domain-specific vocabulary to inform about or explain the topic.
Key skills: Precise language, Domain vocabularyEstablish and maintain a formal style.
Key skills: Formal style, ToneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from the information or explanation presented.
Key skills: Conclusion, Expository structureWrite narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, relevant descriptive details, and well-structured event sequences.
Key skills: Narrative writing, Event sequencingEngage and orient the reader by establishing a context and introducing a narrator and/or characters; organize an event sequence.
Key skills: Context setting, Character introductionUse narrative techniques, such as dialogue, pacing, and description, to develop experiences, events, and/or characters.
Key skills: Dialogue, PacingUse a variety of transition words, phrases, and clauses to convey sequence and signal shifts from one time frame to another.
Key skills: Transitions, SequenceUse precise words and phrases, relevant descriptive details, and sensory language to convey experiences and events.
Key skills: Sensory language, Precise wordsProvide a conclusion that follows from the narrated experiences or events.
Key skills: Conclusion, Narrative resolutionProduce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
Key skills: Coherent writing, Audience awarenessWith some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, or rewriting.
Key skills: Revision, EditingUse technology, including the Internet, to produce and publish writing as well as to interact and collaborate with others.
Key skills: Digital publishing, CollaborationConduct short research projects to answer a question, drawing on several sources and refocusing the inquiry when appropriate.
Key skills: Research, InquiryGather relevant information from multiple print and digital sources; assess the credibility of each source; and quote or paraphrase data.
Key skills: Information gathering, Source credibilityDraw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.
Key skills: Evidence drawing, Textual analysisApply grade 6 Reading standards to literature (e.g., 'Compare and contrast texts in different forms or genres').
Key skills: Literary analysis, Evidence applicationApply grade 6 Reading standards to literary nonfiction (e.g., 'Trace and evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text').
Key skills: Nonfiction analysis, Argument evaluationWrite routinely over extended time frames and shorter time frames for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.
Key skills: Writing stamina, Discipline-specific writingEngage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners on grade 6 topics, texts, and issues.
Key skills: Collaboration, DiscussionCome to discussions prepared, having read or studied required material; explicitly draw on that preparation.
Key skills: Preparation, Evidence-based discussionFollow rules for collegial discussions, set specific goals and deadlines, and define individual roles as needed.
Key skills: Discussion rules, Role definitionPose and respond to specific questions with elaboration and detail by making comments that contribute to the topic.
Key skills: Questioning, ElaborationReview the key ideas expressed and demonstrate understanding of multiple perspectives through reflection and paraphrasing.
Key skills: Reflection, ParaphrasingInterpret information presented in diverse media and formats and explain how it contributes to a topic, text, or issue under study.
Key skills: Media interpretation, Information synthesisDelineate a speaker's argument and specific claims, distinguishing claims that are supported by reasons and evidence from claims that are not.
Key skills: Argument analysis, Listening skillsPresent claims and findings, sequencing ideas logically and using pertinent descriptions, facts, and details to accentuate main ideas.
Key skills: Oral presentation, Logical sequencingInclude multimedia components and visual displays in presentations to clarify information.
Key skills: Multimedia usage, Visual aidsAdapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.
Key skills: Speech adaptation, Formal EnglishDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
Key skills: Grammar, UsageEnsure that pronouns are in the proper case (subjective, objective, possessive).
Key skills: Pronoun case, GrammarUse intensive pronouns (e.g., myself, ourselves).
Key skills: Intensive pronouns, GrammarRecognize and correct inappropriate shifts in pronoun number and person.
Key skills: Pronoun agreement, EditingRecognize and correct vague pronouns (i.e., ones with unclear or ambiguous antecedents).
Key skills: Vague pronouns, ClarityRecognize variations from standard English in their own and others' writing and speaking, and identify strategies to improve expression.
Key skills: Language variations, Self-correctionDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.
Key skills: Capitalization, PunctuationUse punctuation (commas, parentheses, dashes) to set off nonrestrictive/parenthetical elements.
Key skills: Punctuation, Parenthetical elementsSpell correctly.
Key skills: Spelling, ConventionsUse knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening.
Key skills: Language usage, ConventionsVary sentence patterns for meaning, reader/listener interest, and style.
Key skills: Sentence variety, StyleMaintain consistency in style and tone.
Key skills: Consistency, ToneDetermine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grade 6 reading and content.
Key skills: Vocabulary acquisition, Word meaningUse context (e.g., the overall meaning of a sentence or paragraph) as a clue to the meaning of a word or phrase.
Key skills: Context clues, Word meaningUse common, grade-appropriate Greek or Latin affixes and roots as clues to the meaning of a word.
Key skills: Affixes and roots, EtymologyConsult reference materials to find the pronunciation of a word or determine its precise meaning or its part of speech.
Key skills: Reference materials, Dictionary skillsVerify the preliminary determination of the meaning of a word or phrase.
Key skills: Verification, Word meaningDemonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.
Key skills: Figurative language, Word nuancesInterpret figures of speech (e.g., personification) in context.
Key skills: Figures of speech, InterpretationUse the relationship between particular words (e.g., cause/effect, part/whole, item/category) to better understand each of the words.
Key skills: Word relationships, AnalogiesDistinguish among the connotations of words with similar denotations (e.g., stingy, scrimping, economical, unwasteful, thrifty).
Key skills: Connotation, DenotationAcquire and use accurately grade-appropriate general academic and domain-specific words and phrases.
Key skills: Academic vocabulary, Domain-specific wordsCite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
Key skills: Textual evidence, Source analysisDetermine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source; provide an accurate summary of the source.
Key skills: Central idea, SummarizingIdentify key steps in a text's description of a process related to history/social studies.
Key skills: Process identification, Sequential analysisDetermine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including vocabulary specific to domains related to history/social studies.
Key skills: Domain vocabulary, Word meaningDescribe how a text presents information (e.g., sequentially, comparatively, causally).
Key skills: Text structure, Information presentationIdentify aspects of a text that reveal an author's point of view or purpose.
Key skills: Point of view, Author's purposeIntegrate visual information (e.g., in charts, graphs, photographs, videos, or maps) with other information in print and digital texts.
Key skills: Visual integration, Data analysisDistinguish among fact, opinion, and reasoned judgment in a text.
Key skills: Fact vs. opinion, Critical thinkingAnalyze the relationship between a primary and secondary source on the same topic.
Key skills: Source comparison, Historical analysisBy the end of grade 8, read and comprehend history/social studies texts in the grades 6-8 text complexity band independently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexityCite specific textual evidence to support analysis of science and technical texts.
Key skills: Textual evidence, Technical analysisDetermine the central ideas or conclusions of a text; provide an accurate summary of the text.
Key skills: Central idea, SummarizingFollow precisely a multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks.
Key skills: Procedural following, Technical tasksDetermine the meaning of symbols, key terms, and other domain-specific words and phrases.
Key skills: Technical vocabulary, Scientific symbolsAnalyze the structure an author uses to organize a text, including how the major sections contribute to the whole.
Key skills: Text structure, Structural analysisAnalyze the author's purpose in providing an explanation, describing a procedure, or discussing an experiment in a text.
Key skills: Author's purpose, Scientific explanationIntegrate quantitative or technical information expressed in words in a text with a version of that information expressed visually.
Key skills: Visual integration, Quantitative analysisDistinguish among facts, reasoned judgment based on research findings, and speculation in a text.
Key skills: Fact vs. speculation, Evidence evaluationCompare and contrast the information gained from experiments, simulations, video, or multimedia sources with that gained from reading a text.
Key skills: Information comparison, Multimedia synthesisBy the end of grade 8, read and comprehend science/technical texts in the grades 6-8 text complexity band independently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexityWrite arguments focused on discipline-specific content.
Key skills: Argument writing, Discipline-specific contentIntroduce claim(s) about a topic or issue, acknowledge and distinguish the claim(s) from alternate or opposing claims.
Key skills: Claim introduction, CounterclaimsSupport claim(s) with logical reasoning and relevant, accurate data and evidence that demonstrate an understanding of the topic.
Key skills: Evidence usage, Logical reasoningUse words, phrases, and clauses to link the major sections of the text, create cohesion, and clarify the relationships among claim(s).
Key skills: Transitions, CohesionEstablish and maintain a formal style and objective tone.
Key skills: Formal style, Objective toneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented.
Key skills: Conclusion, Argumentative structureWrite informative/explanatory texts, including the narration of historical events, scientific procedures/ experiments, or technical processes.
Key skills: Expository writing, Technical narrationIntroduce a topic clearly, previewing what is to follow; organize ideas, concepts, and information into broader categories.
Key skills: Topic introduction, OrganizationDevelop the topic with relevant, well-chosen facts, definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples.
Key skills: Topic development, Supporting detailsUse appropriate and varied transitions to create cohesion and clarify the relationships among ideas and concepts.
Key skills: Transitions, CohesionUse precise language and domain-specific vocabulary to inform about or explain the topic.
Key skills: Precise language, Domain vocabularyEstablish and maintain a formal style and objective tone.
Key skills: Formal style, Objective toneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the information or explanation presented.
Key skills: Conclusion, Expository structureProduce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
Key skills: Coherent writing, Audience awarenessWith some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, or rewriting.
Key skills: Revision, EditingUse technology, including the Internet, to produce and publish writing and present the relationships between information and ideas clearly.
Key skills: Digital publishing, Information presentationConduct short research projects to answer a question, drawing on several sources and generating additional related, focused questions.
Key skills: Research, InquiryGather relevant information from multiple print and digital sources; assess the credibility of each source; and quote or paraphrase data.
Key skills: Information gathering, Source credibilityDraw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.
Key skills: Evidence drawing, Textual analysisWrite routinely over extended time frames and shorter time frames for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.
Key skills: Writing stamina, Discipline-specific writingCite several pieces of textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
Key skills: Textual evidence, Inference analysisDetermine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze its development over the course of the text; provide an objective summary of the text.
Key skills: Theme determination, Objective summaryAnalyze how particular elements of a story or drama interact (e.g., how setting shapes the characters or plot).
Key skills: Element interaction, Plot analysisDetermine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the impact of rhymes and sounds.
Key skills: Word meaning, Figurative languageAnalyze how a drama's or poem's form or structure (e.g., soliloquy, sonnet) contributes to its meaning.
Key skills: Text structure, Structural analysisAnalyze how an author develops and contrasts the points of view of different characters or narrators in a text.
Key skills: Point of view, Character analysisCompare and contrast a written story, drama, or poem to its audio, filmed, staged, or multimedia version, analyzing the effects of techniques unique to each medium.
Key skills: Media comparison, Technique analysisCompare and contrast a fictional portrayal of a time, place, or character and a historical account of the same period as a means of understanding how authors use history.
Key skills: Historical comparison, Author's craftBy the end of the year, read and comprehend literature, including stories, dramas, and poems, in the grades 6-8 text complexity band proficiently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexityCite several pieces of textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
Key skills: Evidence citation, InferenceDetermine two or more central ideas in a text and analyze their development over the course of the text; provide an objective summary of the text.
Key skills: Central ideas, Summary writingAnalyze the interactions between individuals, events, and ideas in a text (e.g., how ideas influence individuals or events).
Key skills: Interaction analysis, Event analysisDetermine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative, connotative, and technical meanings; analyze the impact of word choice.
Key skills: Vocabulary, Word choice impactAnalyze the structure an author uses to organize a text, including how the major sections contribute to the whole and to the development of the ideas.
Key skills: Text organization, Structural analysisDetermine an author's point of view or purpose in a text and analyze how the author distinguishes his or her position from that of others.
Key skills: Author's purpose, Point of viewCompare and contrast a text to an audio, video, or multimedia version of the text, analyzing each medium's portrayal of the subject.
Key skills: Media comparison, Portrayal analysisTrace and evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text, assessing whether the reasoning is sound and the evidence is relevant and sufficient.
Key skills: Argument evaluation, Evidence assessmentAnalyze how two or more authors writing about the same topic shape their presentations of key information by emphasizing different evidence or advancing different interpretations.
Key skills: Comparative analysis, Authorial perspectiveBy the end of the year, read and comprehend literary nonfiction in the grades 6-8 text complexity band proficiently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Informational textWrite arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
Key skills: Argumentative writing, Evidence supportIntroduce claim(s), acknowledge alternate or opposing claims, and organize the reasons and evidence logically.
Key skills: Claim introduction, Logical organizationSupport claim(s) with logical reasoning and relevant evidence, using accurate, credible sources and demonstrating an understanding of the topic or text.
Key skills: Reasoning, Source credibilityUse words, phrases, and clauses to create cohesion and clarify the relationships among claim(s), reasons, and evidence.
Key skills: Cohesion, TransitionsEstablish and maintain a formal style.
Key skills: Formal style, ToneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented.
Key skills: Conclusion, Argument supportWrite informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content.
Key skills: Informative writing, Content analysisIntroduce a topic clearly, previewing what is to follow; organize ideas, concepts, and information, using strategies such as definition, classification, and comparison.
Key skills: Topic introduction, Organization strategiesDevelop the topic with relevant facts, definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples.
Key skills: Topic development, Supporting detailsUse appropriate transitions to create cohesion and clarify the relationships among ideas and concepts.
Key skills: Transitions, CohesionUse precise language and domain-specific vocabulary to inform about or explain the topic.
Key skills: Precise language, Domain vocabularyEstablish and maintain a formal style.
Key skills: Formal style, ToneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the information or explanation presented.
Key skills: Conclusion, Explanatory supportWrite narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, relevant descriptive details, and well-structured event sequences.
Key skills: Narrative writing, Descriptive detailEngage and orient the reader by establishing a context and point of view and introducing a narrator and/or characters; organize an event sequence that unfolds naturally.
Key skills: Narrative orientation, Event sequencingUse narrative techniques, such as dialogue, pacing, and description, to develop experiences, events, and/or characters.
Key skills: Dialogue, PacingUse a variety of transition words, phrases, and clauses to convey sequence and signal shifts from one time frame or setting to another.
Key skills: Transitions, Sequence signalingUse precise words and phrases, relevant descriptive details, and sensory language to capture the action and convey experiences and events.
Key skills: Sensory language, Descriptive detailProvide a conclusion that follows from and reflects on the narrated experiences or events.
Key skills: Narrative conclusion, ReflectionProduce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
Key skills: Writing coherence, Audience awarenessWith some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach.
Key skills: Writing process, RevisionUse technology, including the Internet, to produce and publish writing and link to and cite sources as well as to interact and collaborate with others.
Key skills: Digital publishing, CollaborationConduct short research projects to answer a question, drawing on several sources and generating additional related, focused questions for further research and investigation.
Key skills: Research projects, InquiryGather relevant information from multiple print and digital sources; quote or paraphrase the data and conclusions of others while avoiding plagiarism.
Key skills: Information gathering, CitationDraw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.
Key skills: Evidence drawing, Textual analysisApply grade 7 Reading standards to literature.
Key skills: Literary analysis, Evidence supportApply grade 7 Reading standards to literary nonfiction.
Key skills: Nonfiction analysis, Evidence supportWrite routinely over extended time frames and shorter time frames for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.
Key skills: Routine writing, Task flexibilityEngage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners on grade 7 topics, texts, and issues.
Key skills: Collaborative discussion, CommunicationCome to discussions prepared, having read or researched material under study; explicitly draw on that preparation by referring to evidence on the topic.
Key skills: Discussion preparation, Evidence useFollow rules for collegial discussions, track progress toward specific goals and deadlines, and define individual roles as needed.
Key skills: Discussion rules, Group rolesPose questions that elicit elaboration and respond to others' questions and comments with relevant observations and ideas that bring the discussion back on topic.
Key skills: Questioning, Responsive listeningAcknowledge new information expressed by others and, when warranted, modify their own views.
Key skills: Perspective taking, View modificationAnalyze the main ideas and supporting details presented in diverse media and formats and explain how the ideas clarify a topic, text, or issue under study.
Key skills: Media analysis, Idea clarificationDelineate a speaker's argument and specific claims, evaluating the soundness of the reasoning and the relevance and sufficiency of the evidence.
Key skills: Argument evaluation, Speaker analysisPresent claims and findings, emphasizing salient points in a focused, coherent manner with pertinent descriptions, facts, details, and examples.
Key skills: Oral presentation, Claim presentationInclude multimedia components and visual displays in presentations to clarify claims and findings and emphasize salient points.
Key skills: Multimedia use, Visual aidsAdapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.
Key skills: Speech adaptation, Formal EnglishDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
Key skills: Grammar, Standard English usageExplain the function of phrases and clauses in general and their function in specific sentences.
Key skills: Phrases and clauses, Sentence functionChoose among simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex sentences to signal differing relationships among ideas.
Key skills: Sentence variety, Idea relationshipPlace phrases and clauses within a sentence, recognizing and correcting misplaced and dangling modifiers.
Key skills: Modifier placement, Sentence correctionDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.
Key skills: Capitalization, PunctuationUse a comma to separate coordinate adjectives.
Key skills: Comma usage, Coordinate adjectivesSpell correctly.
Key skills: Spelling, OrthographyUse knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening.
Key skills: Language knowledge, Style choiceChoose language that expresses ideas precisely and concisely, recognizing and eliminating wordiness and redundancy.
Key skills: Concise language, Wordiness reductionDetermine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grade 7 reading and content.
Key skills: Vocabulary acquisition, Word meaningUse context (e.g., the overall meaning of a sentence or paragraph) as a clue to the meaning of a word or phrase.
Key skills: Context clues, Word meaningUse common, grade-appropriate Greek or Latin affixes and roots as clues to the meaning of a word.
Key skills: Affixes and roots, MorphologyConsult general and specialized reference materials to find the pronunciation of a word or determine its precise meaning or its part of speech.
Key skills: Reference materials, Dictionary useVerify the preliminary determination of the meaning of a word or phrase.
Key skills: Meaning verification, Context checkDemonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.
Key skills: Figurative language, Word nuancesInterpret figures of speech (e.g., literary, biblical, and mythological allusions) in context.
Key skills: Figures of speech, AllusionsUse the relationship between particular words (e.g., synonym/antonym, analogy) to better understand each of the words.
Key skills: Word relationships, AnalogiesDistinguish among the connotations (associations) of words with similar denotations (definitions).
Key skills: Connotation, DenotationAcquire and use accurately grade-appropriate general academic and domain-specific words and phrases.
Key skills: Academic vocabulary, Word acquisitionCite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
Key skills: Evidence citation, Source analysisDetermine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source; provide an accurate summary of the source.
Key skills: Central ideas, Source summaryIdentify key steps in a text's description of a process related to history/social studies.
Key skills: Process identification, Historical stepsDetermine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including vocabulary specific to domains related to history/social studies.
Key skills: Domain vocabulary, Word meaningDescribe how a text presents information (e.g., sequentially, comparatively, causally).
Key skills: Information presentation, Text structureIdentify aspects of a text that reveal an author's point of view or purpose.
Key skills: Point of view, Author's purposeIntegrate visual information (e.g., in charts, graphs, photographs, videos, or maps) with other information in print and digital texts.
Key skills: Visual integration, Data analysisDistinguish among fact, opinion, and reasoned judgment in a text.
Key skills: Fact vs opinion, Judgment analysisAnalyze the relationship between a primary and secondary source on the same topic.
Key skills: Source relationship, Comparative analysisBy the end of grade 8, read and comprehend history/social studies texts in the grades 6-8 text complexity band independently and proficiently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Historical textCite specific textual evidence to support analysis of science and technical texts.
Key skills: Evidence citation, Technical analysisDetermine the central ideas or conclusions of a text; provide an accurate summary of the text distinct from prior knowledge or opinions.
Key skills: Central ideas, Technical summaryFollow precisely a multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks.
Key skills: Procedure following, Technical tasksDetermine the meaning of symbols, key terms, and other domain-specific words and phrases as they are used in a specific scientific or technical context.
Key skills: Technical vocabulary, Symbol meaningAnalyze the structure an author uses to organize a text, including how the major sections contribute to the whole and to an understanding of the topic.
Key skills: Text organization, Structural analysisAnalyze the author's purpose in providing an explanation, describing a procedure, or discussing an experiment in a text.
Key skills: Author's purpose, Scientific explanationIntegrate quantitative or technical information expressed in words in a text with a version of that information expressed visually.
Key skills: Data integration, Visual representationDistinguish among facts, reasoned judgment based on research findings, and speculation in a text.
Key skills: Fact vs speculation, Scientific judgmentCompare and contrast the information gained from experiments, simulations, video, or multimedia sources with that gained from reading a text on the same topic.
Key skills: Information comparison, Multimedia analysisBy the end of grade 8, read and comprehend science/technical texts in the grades 6-8 text complexity band independently and proficiently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Technical textWrite arguments focused on discipline-specific content.
Key skills: Argumentative writing, Discipline contentIntroduce claim(s) about a topic or issue, acknowledge and distinguish the claim(s) from alternate or opposing claims, and organize the reasons and evidence logically.
Key skills: Claim introduction, Logical organizationSupport claim(s) with logical reasoning and relevant, accurate data and evidence that demonstrate an understanding of the topic or text, using credible sources.
Key skills: Reasoning, Evidence supportUse words, phrases, and clauses to link the major sections of the text, create cohesion, and clarify the relationships among claim(s) and reasons.
Key skills: Cohesion, TransitionsEstablish and maintain a formal style and objective tone.
Key skills: Formal style, Objective toneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented.
Key skills: Conclusion, Argument supportWrite informative/explanatory texts, including the narration of historical events, scientific procedures/ experiments, or technical processes.
Key skills: Informative writing, Technical narrationIntroduce a topic clearly, previewing what is to follow; organize ideas, concepts, and information into broader categories as appropriate.
Key skills: Topic introduction, OrganizationDevelop the topic with relevant, well-chosen facts, definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples.
Key skills: Topic development, Supporting detailsUse appropriate and varied transitions to create cohesion and clarify the relationships among ideas and concepts.
Key skills: Transitions, CohesionUse precise language and domain-specific vocabulary to inform about or explain the topic.
Key skills: Precise language, Domain vocabularyEstablish and maintain a formal style and objective tone.
Key skills: Formal style, Objective toneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the information or explanation presented.
Key skills: Conclusion, Explanatory supportProduce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
Key skills: Writing coherence, Audience awarenessWith some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach.
Key skills: Writing process, RevisionUse technology, including the Internet, to produce and publish writing and present the relationships between information and ideas clearly and efficiently.
Key skills: Digital publishing, Information presentationConduct short research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question), drawing on several sources and generating additional related, focused questions.
Key skills: Research projects, InquiryGather relevant information from multiple print and digital sources, using search terms effectively; assess the credibility and accuracy of each source.
Key skills: Information gathering, Source assessmentDraw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.
Key skills: Evidence drawing, Textual analysisWrite routinely over extended time frames and shorter time frames for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.
Key skills: Routine writing, Task flexibilityCite the textual evidence that most strongly supports an analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
Key skills: Textual evidence, Inference, AnalysisDetermine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze its development over the course of the text; provide an objective summary of the text.
Key skills: Theme analysis, Objective summary, Central ideaAnalyze how particular lines of dialogue or incidents in a story or drama propel the action, reveal aspects of a character, or provoke a decision.
Key skills: Character analysis, Plot development, Dialogue analysisDetermine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the impact of specific word choices.
Key skills: Word meaning, Figurative language, Tone analysisCompare and contrast the structure of two or more texts and analyze how the differing structure of each text contributes to its meaning and style.
Key skills: Text structure, Comparative analysis, Stylistic analysisAnalyze how differences in the points of view of the characters and the audience or reader create such effects as suspense or humor.
Key skills: Point of view, Dramatic irony, Literary effectsAnalyze the extent to which a filmed or live production of a story or drama stays faithful to or departs from the text or script.
Key skills: Media comparison, Production analysis, Faithfulness to textAnalyze how a modern work of fiction draws on themes, patterns of events, or character types from myths, traditional stories, or religious works.
Key skills: Intertextuality, Mythological allusion, Thematic transformationBy the end of the year, read and comprehend literature at the high end of grades 6-8 text complexity band independently and proficiently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexity, Independent readingCite the textual evidence that most strongly supports an analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
Key skills: Textual evidence, Inference, Informational analysisDetermine a central idea of a text and analyze its development over the course of the text; provide an objective summary of the text.
Key skills: Central idea, Objective summary, Development analysisAnalyze how a text makes connections among and distinctions between individuals, ideas, or events (e.g., through comparisons, analogies, or categories).
Key skills: Connections, Distinctions, Comparative analysisDetermine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative, connotative, and technical meanings.
Key skills: Technical vocabulary, Word meaning, Context cluesAnalyze in detail the structure of a specific paragraph in a text, including the role of particular sentences in developing and refining a key concept.
Key skills: Paragraph structure, Concept development, Sentence roleDetermine an author's point of view or purpose in a text and analyze how the author acknowledges and responds to conflicting evidence or viewpoints.
Key skills: Author's purpose, Point of view, Conflicting viewpointsEvaluate the advantages and disadvantages of using different mediums (e.g., print or digital text, video, multimedia) to present a particular topic or idea.
Key skills: Media evaluation, Information presentation, Medium analysisDelineate and evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text, assessing whether the reasoning is sound and the evidence is relevant and sufficient.
Key skills: Argument evaluation, Claim analysis, Evidence assessmentAnalyze a case in which two or more texts provide conflicting information on the same topic and identify where the texts disagree on matters of fact.
Key skills: Conflicting information, Fact vs interpretation, Comparative analysisBy the end of the year, read and comprehend literary nonfiction at the high end of grades 6-8 text complexity band independently and proficiently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexity, Independent readingWrite arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
Key skills: Argumentative writing, Claim support, Evidence usageIntroduce claim(s), acknowledge and distinguish the claim(s) from alternate or opposing claims, and organize the reasons and evidence logically.
Key skills: Claim introduction, Counterclaims, Logical organizationSupport claim(s) with logical reasoning and relevant evidence, using accurate, credible sources and demonstrating an understanding of the topic or text.
Key skills: Logical reasoning, Credible sources, Evidence integrationUse words, phrases, and clauses to create cohesion and clarify the relationships among claim(s), counterclaims, reasons, and evidence.
Key skills: Cohesion, Transitions, ClarityEstablish and maintain a formal style.
Key skills: Formal style, Academic toneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented.
Key skills: Conclusion, Argument supportWrite informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of content.
Key skills: Explanatory writing, Content analysis, Information organizationIntroduce a topic clearly, previewing what is to follow; organize ideas, concepts, and information into broader categories.
Key skills: Topic introduction, Categorization, FormattingDevelop the topic with relevant, well-chosen facts, definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples.
Key skills: Topic development, Supporting details, EvidenceUse appropriate and varied transitions to create cohesion and clarify the relationships among ideas and concepts.
Key skills: Transitions, Cohesion, Conceptual clarityUse precise language and domain-specific vocabulary to inform about or explain the topic.
Key skills: Precise language, Domain vocabulary, ClarityEstablish and maintain a formal style and objective tone.
Key skills: Formal style, Objective toneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the information or explanation presented.
Key skills: Conclusion, SummaryWrite narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, relevant descriptive details, and well-structured event sequences.
Key skills: Narrative writing, Descriptive detail, Event sequencingEngage and orient the reader by establishing a context and point of view and introducing a narrator and/or characters.
Key skills: Context setting, Character introduction, Point of viewUse narrative techniques, such as dialogue, pacing, description, and reflection, to develop experiences, events, and/or characters.
Key skills: Dialogue, Pacing, Character developmentUse a variety of transition words, phrases, and clauses to convey sequence, signal shifts from one time frame or setting to another.
Key skills: Transitions, Sequence, Setting shiftsUse precise words and phrases, relevant descriptive details, and sensory language to capture the action and convey experiences and events.
Key skills: Sensory language, Precise words, Descriptive detailProvide a conclusion that follows from and reflects on the narrated experiences or events.
Key skills: Conclusion, ReflectionProduce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
Key skills: Clear writing, Audience awareness, Purposeful styleWith some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach.
Key skills: Writing process, Revision, EditingUse technology, including the Internet, to produce and publish writing and present the relationships between information and ideas efficiently.
Key skills: Digital publishing, Collaboration, Technology useConduct short research projects to answer a question, drawing on several sources and generating additional related, focused questions that allow for multiple avenues of exploration.
Key skills: Research projects, Inquiry, Source synthesisGather relevant information from multiple print and digital sources, using search terms effectively; assess the credibility and accuracy of each source.
Key skills: Information gathering, Source credibility, CitationDraw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.
Key skills: Evidence extraction, Analysis, ReflectionApply grade 8 Reading standards to literature.
Key skills: Literary analysis, Evidence usageApply grade 8 Reading standards to literary nonfiction.
Key skills: Nonfiction analysis, Evidence usageWrite routinely over extended time frames and shorter time frames for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.
Key skills: Routine writing, Task adaptation, Time managementEngage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners on grade 8 topics, texts, and issues.
Key skills: Collaborative discussion, Active listening, Idea expressionCome to discussions prepared, having read or researched material under study; explicitly draw on that preparation by referring to evidence.
Key skills: Preparation, Evidence usage, DiscussionFollow rules for collegial discussions and decision-making, track progress toward specific goals and deadlines, and define individual roles as needed.
Key skills: Discussion rules, Goal tracking, Role definitionPose questions that connect the ideas of several speakers and respond to others' questions and comments with relevant evidence, observations, and ideas.
Key skills: Questioning, Synthesis, Evidence-based responseAcknowledge new information expressed by others, and, when warranted, qualify or justify their own views in light of the evidence presented.
Key skills: Perspective taking, Viewpoint justification, Evidence evaluationAnalyze the purpose of information presented in diverse media and formats and evaluate the motives behind its presentation.
Key skills: Media analysis, Motive evaluation, Information synthesisDelineate a speaker's argument and specific claims, evaluating the soundness of the reasoning and relevance and sufficiency of the evidence.
Key skills: Argument delineation, Reasoning evaluation, Evidence sufficiencyPresent claims and findings, emphasizing salient points in a focused, coherent manner with relevant evidence, sound valid reasoning, and well-chosen details.
Key skills: Oral presentation, Claim presentation, ReasoningIntegrate multimedia and visual displays into presentations to clarify information, strengthen claims and evidence, and add interest.
Key skills: Multimedia integration, Visual aids, Presentation enhancementAdapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.
Key skills: Speech adaptation, Formal English, Contextual awarenessDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
Key skills: Grammar, Usage, Standard EnglishExplain the function of verbals (gerunds, participles, infinitives) in general and their function in particular sentences.
Key skills: Verbals, Sentence function, Grammar analysisForm and use verbs in the active and passive voice.
Key skills: Active voice, Passive voice, Verb usageForm and use verbs in the indicative, imperative, interrogative, conditional, and subjunctive mood.
Key skills: Verb mood, Sentence types, GrammarRecognize and correct inappropriate shifts in verb voice and mood.
Key skills: Verb consistency, Error correction, Voice/mood shiftsDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.
Key skills: Capitalization, Punctuation, SpellingUse punctuation (comma, ellipsis, dash) to indicate a pause or break.
Key skills: Punctuation, Pause/break, Sentence flowUse an ellipsis to indicate an omission.
Key skills: Ellipsis, Omission, PunctuationSpell correctly.
Key skills: Spelling, OrthographyUse knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening.
Key skills: Language conventions, Style, Contextual usageUse verbs in the active and passive voice and in the conditional and subjunctive mood to achieve particular effects.
Key skills: Stylistic effect, Verb voice, Verb moodDetermine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words or phrases based on grade 8 reading and content.
Key skills: Vocabulary acquisition, Word meaning, Context cluesUse context (e.g., the overall meaning of a sentence or paragraph; a word's position or function in a sentence) as a clue to the meaning of a word or phrase.
Key skills: Context clues, Inference, Word meaningUse common, grade-appropriate Greek or Latin affixes and roots as clues to the meaning of a word.
Key skills: Affixes, Roots, EtymologyConsult general and specialized reference materials to find the pronunciation of a word or determine or clarify its precise meaning or its part of speech.
Key skills: Reference materials, Dictionary use, PronunciationVerify the preliminary determination of the meaning of a word or phrase.
Key skills: Meaning verification, Context checkDemonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.
Key skills: Figurative language, Word relationships, NuanceInterpret figures of speech (e.g. verbal irony, puns) in context.
Key skills: Figures of speech, Verbal irony, PunsUse the relationship between particular words to better understand each of the words.
Key skills: Word relationships, Synonyms/Antonyms, AnalogyDistinguish among the connotations of words with similar denotations.
Key skills: Connotation, Denotation, NuanceAcquire and use accurately grade-appropriate general academic and domain-specific words and phrases.
Key skills: Academic vocabulary, Domain-specific words, Vocabulary usageCite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
Key skills: Textual evidence, Primary sources, Secondary sourcesDetermine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source; provide an accurate summary of the source distinct from prior knowledge or opinions.
Key skills: Central idea, Objective summary, Source analysisIdentify key steps in a text's description of a process related to history/social studies (e.g., how a bill becomes law, how interest rates are raised or lowered).
Key skills: Process identification, Historical steps, SequenceDetermine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including vocabulary specific to domains related to history/social studies.
Key skills: Domain vocabulary, Historical terminology, Context cluesDescribe how a text presents information (e.g., sequentially, comparatively, causally).
Key skills: Information presentation, Text structure, Causal relationshipsIdentify aspects of a text that reveal an author's point of view or purpose (e.g., loaded language, inclusion or avoidance of particular facts).
Key skills: Author's purpose, Point of view, Bias detectionIntegrate visual information (e.g., in charts, graphs, photographs, videos, or maps) with other information in print and digital texts.
Key skills: Visual integration, Data analysis, Multimedia literacyDistinguish among fact, opinion, and reasoned judgment in a text.
Key skills: Fact vs opinion, Reasoned judgment, Critical readingAnalyze the relationship between a primary and secondary source on the same topic.
Key skills: Source comparison, Historical analysis, Relationship analysisBy the end of grade 8, read and comprehend history/social studies texts in the grades 6-8 text complexity band independently and proficiently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexity, Independent readingCite specific textual evidence to support analysis of science and technical texts.
Key skills: Textual evidence, Technical analysis, Scientific readingDetermine the central ideas or conclusions of a text; provide an accurate summary of the text distinct from prior knowledge or opinions.
Key skills: Central idea, Objective summary, Scientific conclusionsFollow precisely a multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks.
Key skills: Procedure following, Technical tasks, PrecisionDetermine the meaning of symbols, key terms, and other domain-specific words and phrases as they are used in a specific scientific or technical context.
Key skills: Scientific symbols, Domain vocabulary, Technical termsAnalyze the structure an author uses to organize a text, including how the major sections contribute to the whole and to an understanding of the topic.
Key skills: Text organization, Structural analysis, Topic understandingAnalyze the author's purpose in providing an explanation, describing a procedure, or discussing an experiment in a text.
Key skills: Author's purpose, Explanatory analysis, Procedural analysisIntegrate quantitative or technical information expressed in words in a text with a version of that information expressed visually.
Key skills: Quantitative integration, Visual data, Technical literacyDistinguish among facts, reasoned judgment based on research findings, and speculation in a text.
Key skills: Fact vs speculation, Reasoned judgment, Scientific literacyCompare and contrast the information gained from experiments, simulations, video, or multimedia sources with that gained from reading a text on the same topic.
Key skills: Source comparison, Multimedia analysis, Scientific synthesisBy the end of grade 8, read and comprehend science/technical texts in the grades 6-8 text complexity band independently and proficiently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexity, Independent readingWrite arguments focused on discipline-specific content.
Key skills: Discipline-specific writing, Argumentation, Content focusIntroduce claim(s) about a topic or issue, acknowledge and distinguish the claim(s) from alternate or opposing claims, and organize the reasons and evidence logically.
Key skills: Claim introduction, Counterclaims, Logical organizationSupport claim(s) with logical reasoning and relevant, accurate data and evidence that demonstrate an understanding of the topic or text, using credible sources.
Key skills: Evidence usage, Logical reasoning, Credible sourcesUse words, phrases, and clauses to create cohesion and clarify the relationships among claim(s), counterclaims, reasons, and evidence.
Key skills: Cohesion, Transitions, ClarityEstablish and maintain a formal style.
Key skills: Formal style, Academic toneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented.
Key skills: Conclusion, Argument supportWrite informative/explanatory texts, including the narration of historical events, scientific procedures/ experiments, or technical processes.
Key skills: Explanatory writing, Technical narration, Process explanationIntroduce a topic clearly, previewing what is to follow; organize ideas, concepts, and information into broader categories.
Key skills: Topic introduction, Categorization, FormattingDevelop the topic with relevant, well-chosen facts, definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples.
Key skills: Topic development, Supporting details, EvidenceUse appropriate and varied transitions to create cohesion and clarify the relationships among ideas and concepts.
Key skills: Transitions, Cohesion, Conceptual clarityUse precise language and domain-specific vocabulary to inform about or explain the topic.
Key skills: Precise language, Domain vocabulary, ClarityEstablish and maintain a formal style and objective tone.
Key skills: Formal style, Objective toneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the information or explanation presented.
Key skills: Conclusion, SummaryProduce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
Key skills: Clear writing, Audience awareness, Purposeful styleWith some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach.
Key skills: Writing process, Revision, EditingUse technology, including the Internet, to produce and publish writing and present the relationships between information and ideas clearly and efficiently.
Key skills: Digital publishing, Collaboration, Technology useConduct short research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question), drawing on several sources and generating additional related, focused questions.
Key skills: Research projects, Inquiry, Source synthesisGather relevant information from multiple print and digital sources, using search terms effectively; assess the credibility and accuracy of each source.
Key skills: Information gathering, Source credibility, CitationDraw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.
Key skills: Evidence extraction, Analysis, ReflectionWrite routinely over extended time frames and shorter time frames for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.
Key skills: Routine writing, Task adaptation, Time managementCite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
Key skills: Textual evidence, Inference drawingDetermine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze in detail its development over the course of the text; provide an objective summary.
Key skills: Theme analysis, Objective summaryAnalyze how complex characters develop over the course of a text, interact with other characters, and advance the plot or develop the theme.
Key skills: Character development, Plot analysisDetermine the meaning of words and phrases as used in the text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the cumulative impact of word choices.
Key skills: Word meaning, Tone analysisAnalyze how an author's choices concerning how to structure a text and manipulate time create such effects as mystery, tension, or surprise.
Key skills: Text structure, Literary effectsAnalyze a particular point of view or cultural experience reflected in a work of literature from outside the United States.
Key skills: Point of view, Cultural analysisAnalyze the representation of a subject or a key scene in two different artistic mediums, including what is emphasized or absent in each treatment.
Key skills: Media comparison, Subject analysisAnalyze how an author draws on and transforms source material in a specific work (e.g., how Shakespeare treats a theme from Ovid).
Key skills: Source transformation, IntertextualityBy the end of grade 10, read and comprehend literature in the grades 9-10 text complexity band independently and proficiently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexityCite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
Key skills: Textual evidence, Inference drawingDetermine a central idea of a text and analyze its development over the course of the text; provide an objective summary.
Key skills: Central idea, Objective summaryAnalyze how the author unfolds an analysis or series of ideas or events, including the order in which the points are made.
Key skills: Idea development, Textual analysisDetermine the meaning of words and phrases as used in a text, including figurative, connotative, and technical meanings.
Key skills: Vocabulary, Technical meaningAnalyze in detail how an author's ideas or claims are developed and refined by particular sentences, paragraphs, or larger portions of a text.
Key skills: Claim development, Text structureDetermine an author's point of view or purpose in a text and analyze how an author uses rhetoric to advance that point of view.
Key skills: Point of view, Rhetorical analysisAnalyze various accounts of a subject told in different mediums, determining which details are emphasized in each account.
Key skills: Media analysis, Subject comparisonDelineate and evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text, assessing whether the reasoning is valid and the evidence is relevant.
Key skills: Argument evaluation, Evidence assessmentAnalyze seminal U.S. documents of historical and literary significance, including how they address related themes and concepts.
Key skills: Historical documents, Thematic analysisBy the end of grade 10, read and comprehend literary nonfiction in the grades 9-10 text complexity band independently and proficiently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexityWrite arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
Key skills: Argumentative writing, Evidence usageIntroduce precise claim(s), distinguish the claim(s) from alternate or opposing claims, and create an organization that establishes clear relationships.
Key skills: Claim introduction, OrganizationDevelop claim(s) and counterclaims fairly, supplying evidence for each while pointing out the strengths and limitations of both.
Key skills: Counterclaim development, Evidence analysisUse words, phrases, and clauses to link the major sections of the text, create cohesion, and clarify the relationships between claim(s) and reasons.
Key skills: Cohesion, TransitionsEstablish and maintain a formal style and objective tone while attending to the norms and conventions of the discipline.
Key skills: Formal style, Objective toneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented.
Key skills: Conclusion writing, Argument supportWrite informative/explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas, concepts, and information clearly and accurately.
Key skills: Explanatory writing, Information clarityIntroduce a topic; organize complex ideas, concepts, and information to make important connections and distinctions.
Key skills: Topic introduction, Idea organizationDevelop the topic with well-chosen, relevant, and sufficient facts, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information.
Key skills: Topic development, Supporting detailsUse appropriate and varied transitions to link the major sections of the text, create cohesion, and clarify the relationships among complex ideas.
Key skills: Transitions, CohesionUse precise language and domain-specific vocabulary to manage the complexity of the topic.
Key skills: Precise language, Domain vocabularyEstablish and maintain a formal style and objective tone while attending to the norms and conventions of the discipline.
Key skills: Formal style, Objective toneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the information or explanation presented.
Key skills: Conclusion writing, Explanatory supportWrite narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, well-chosen details, and well-structured event sequences.
Key skills: Narrative writing, Event sequencingEngage and orient the reader by setting out a problem, situation, or observation, establishing one or multiple point(s) of view.
Key skills: Reader engagement, Point of viewUse narrative techniques, such as dialogue, pacing, description, reflection, and multiple plot lines, to develop experiences, events, and/or characters.
Key skills: Narrative techniques, Character developmentUse a variety of techniques to sequence events so that they build on one another to create a coherent whole.
Key skills: Event sequencing, CoherenceUse precise words and phrases, telling details, and sensory language to convey a vivid picture of the experiences, events, setting, and/or characters.
Key skills: Sensory language, Vivid detailsProvide a conclusion that follows from and reflects on what is experienced, observed, or resolved over the course of the narrative.
Key skills: Narrative conclusion, ReflectionProduce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
Key skills: Writing production, Audience awarenessDevelop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach.
Key skills: Writing process, RevisionUse technology, including the Internet, to produce, publish, and update individual or shared writing products.
Key skills: Digital publishing, CollaborationConduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question or solve a problem.
Key skills: Research projects, InquiryGather relevant information from multiple authoritative print and digital sources, using advanced searches effectively.
Key skills: Information gathering, Source evaluationDraw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.
Key skills: Evidence drawing, Textual analysisWrite routinely over extended time frames and shorter time frames for a range of tasks, purposes, and audiences.
Key skills: Writing stamina, Task adaptationInitiate and participate effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners on grades 9-10 topics, texts, and issues.
Key skills: Collaborative discussion, Idea expressionCome to discussions prepared, having read and researched material under study; explicitly draw on that preparation.
Key skills: Preparation, Evidence usageWork with peers to set rules for collegial discussions and decision-making, clear goals and deadlines, and individual roles as needed.
Key skills: Group dynamics, Goal settingPropel conversations by posing and responding to questions that relate the current discussion to broader themes or larger ideas.
Key skills: Conversation management, Thematic connectionRespond thoughtfully to diverse perspectives, summarize points of agreement and disagreement, and justify their own views.
Key skills: Perspective taking, Viewpoint justificationIntegrate multiple sources of information presented in diverse media or formats, evaluating the credibility and accuracy of each source.
Key skills: Information integration, Source evaluationEvaluate a speaker's point of view, reasoning, and use of evidence and rhetoric, identifying any fallacious reasoning.
Key skills: Speaker evaluation, Rhetorical analysisPresent information, findings, and supporting evidence clearly, concisely, and logically such that listeners can follow the line of reasoning.
Key skills: Oral presentation, Logical reasoningMake strategic use of digital media in presentations to enhance understanding of findings, reasoning, and evidence and to add interest.
Key skills: Digital media, Presentation enhancementAdapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.
Key skills: Speech adaptation, Formal EnglishDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
Key skills: Grammar, Usage conventionsUse parallel structure.
Key skills: Parallel structure, Sentence varietyUse various types of phrases and clauses to convey specific meanings and add variety and interest to writing or presentations.
Key skills: Sentence structure, ClarityDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.
Key skills: Capitalization, PunctuationUse a semicolon (and perhaps a conjunctive adverb) to link two or more closely related independent clauses.
Key skills: Semicolon usage, Clause linkingUse a colon to introduce a list or quotation.
Key skills: Colon usage, FormattingSpell correctly.
Key skills: Spelling, AccuracyApply knowledge of language to understand how language functions in different contexts, to make effective choices for meaning or style.
Key skills: Language function, Style choicesWrite and edit work so that it conforms to the guidelines in a style manual appropriate for the discipline and writing type.
Key skills: Style manuals, EditingDetermine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grades 9-10 reading and content.
Key skills: Vocabulary acquisition, Word meaningUse context as a clue to the meaning of a word or phrase.
Key skills: Context clues, InferenceIdentify and correctly utilize patterns of word changes that indicate different meanings or parts of speech.
Key skills: Word patterns, AffixesConsult general and specialized reference materials to find the pronunciation of a word or determine its precise meaning.
Key skills: Reference materials, Dictionary useVerify the preliminary determination of the meaning of a word or phrase.
Key skills: Meaning verification, Self-correctionDemonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.
Key skills: Figurative language, NuanceInterpret figures of speech in context and analyze their role in the text.
Key skills: Figures of speech, InterpretationAnalyze nuances in the meaning of words with similar denotations.
Key skills: Word nuances, DenotationAcquire and use accurately general academic and domain-specific words and phrases, sufficient for reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
Key skills: Academic vocabulary, Domain wordsCite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources, attending to features such as date and origin.
Key skills: Textual evidence, Source analysisDetermine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source; provide an accurate summary of how key events develop.
Key skills: Central idea, SummaryAnalyze in detail a series of events described in a text; determine whether earlier events caused later ones or simply preceded them.
Key skills: Causality, Event analysisDetermine the meaning of words and phrases as used in a text, including vocabulary describing political, social, or economic aspects.
Key skills: Disciplinary vocabulary, Word meaningAnalyze how a text uses structure to emphasize key points or advance an explanation or analysis.
Key skills: Text structure, Key pointsCompare the point of view of two or more authors for how they treat the same or similar topics.
Key skills: Point of view, Comparative analysisIntegrate quantitative or technical analysis (e.g., charts, research data) with qualitative analysis in print or digital text.
Key skills: Data integration, Qualitative analysisAssess the extent to which the reasoning and evidence in a text support the author's claims.
Key skills: Argument assessment, Evidence evaluationCompare and contrast treatments of the same topic in several primary and secondary sources.
Key skills: Source comparison, Topic analysisBy the end of grade 10, read and comprehend history/social studies texts in the grades 9-10 text complexity band independently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexityCite specific textual evidence to support analysis of science and technical texts, attending to the precise details of explanations.
Key skills: Textual evidence, Technical analysisDetermine the central ideas or conclusions of a text; trace the text's explanation or depiction of a complex process, phenomenon, or concept.
Key skills: Central idea, Process tracingFollow precisely a complex multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks.
Key skills: Procedural following, Technical tasksDetermine the meaning of symbols, key terms, and other domain-specific words and phrases as used in a specific scientific or technical context.
Key skills: Technical vocabulary, Symbol interpretationAnalyze the structure of the relationships among concepts in a text, including relationships among key terms.
Key skills: Conceptual structure, Term relationshipsAnalyze the author's purpose in providing an explanation, describing a procedure, or discussing an experiment in a text.
Key skills: Author's purpose, Scientific explanationTranslate quantitative or technical information expressed in words in a text into visual form and translate information expressed visually into words.
Key skills: Data translation, Visual literacyAssess the extent to which the reasoning and evidence in a text support the author's claim or a recommendation for solving a technical problem.
Key skills: Evidence assessment, Problem solvingCompare and contrast findings presented in a text to those from other sources, noting when the findings support or contradict previous explanations.
Key skills: Finding comparison, Scientific verificationBy the end of grade 10, read and comprehend science/technical texts in the grades 9-10 text complexity band independently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Technical textWrite arguments focused on discipline-specific content.
Key skills: Disciplinary writing, ArgumentationIntroduce precise claim(s) about a topic and distinguish the claim(s) from alternate or opposing claims.
Key skills: Claim introduction, Counterclaim distinctionDevelop claim(s) and counterclaims fairly, supplying data and evidence for each while pointing out the strengths and limitations of both.
Key skills: Evidence usage, Fair developmentUse words, phrases, and clauses to link the major sections of the text, create cohesion, and clarify the relationships between claim(s) and reasons.
Key skills: Cohesion, TransitionsEstablish and maintain a formal style and objective tone while attending to the norms and conventions of the discipline.
Key skills: Formal style, Objective toneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from or supports the argument presented.
Key skills: Conclusion writing, Argument supportWrite informative/explanatory texts, including the narration of historical events, scientific procedures/ experiments, or technical processes.
Key skills: Explanatory writing, Technical narrationIntroduce a topic and organize ideas, concepts, and information to make important connections and distinctions.
Key skills: Topic introduction, OrganizationDevelop the topic with well-chosen, relevant, and sufficient facts, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information.
Key skills: Topic development, Supporting detailsUse varied transitions and sentence structures to link sections of the text, create cohesion, and clarify relationships among ideas.
Key skills: Transitions, CohesionUse precise language and domain-specific vocabulary to manage the complexity of the topic and convey a style appropriate to the discipline.
Key skills: Precise language, Domain vocabularyEstablish and maintain a formal style and objective tone while attending to the norms and conventions of the discipline.
Key skills: Formal style, Objective toneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the information or explanation presented.
Key skills: Conclusion writing, Explanatory supportProduce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
Key skills: Writing production, Audience awarenessDevelop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach.
Key skills: Writing process, RevisionUse technology, including the Internet, to produce, publish, and update individual or shared writing products.
Key skills: Digital publishing, CollaborationConduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question or solve a problem.
Key skills: Research projects, InquiryGather relevant information from multiple authoritative print and digital sources, using advanced searches effectively.
Key skills: Information gathering, Source evaluationDraw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.
Key skills: Evidence drawing, Textual analysisWrite routinely over extended time frames and shorter time frames for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.
Key skills: Writing stamina, Task adaptationCite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text, including determining where the text leaves matters uncertain.
Key skills: Textual evidence, Inference analysisDetermine two or more themes or central ideas of a text and analyze their development over the course of the text, including how they interact and build on one another to produce a complex account.
Key skills: Theme development, Summary writingAnalyze the impact of the author's choices regarding how to develop and relate elements of a story or drama (e.g., where a story is set, how the action is ordered, how characters are developed).
Key skills: Character development, Narrative structureDetermine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in the text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone.
Key skills: Word choice, Tone analysisAnalyze how an author's choices concerning how to structure specific parts of a text contribute to its overall structure and meaning as well as its aesthetic impact.
Key skills: Text structure, Aesthetic impactAnalyze a case in which grasping point of view requires distinguishing what is directly stated in a text from what is really meant (e.g., satire, sarcasm, irony, or understatement).
Key skills: Point of view, Irony and satireAnalyze multiple interpretations of a story, drama, or poem, evaluating how each version interprets the source text (e.g., comparing a play by Shakespeare to a filmed version).
Key skills: Comparative analysis, Media interpretationDemonstrate knowledge of eighteenth-, nineteenth- and early-twentieth-century foundational works of American literature, including how two or more texts from the same period treat similar themes or topics.
Key skills: Literary history, Thematic comparisonBy the end of grade 11, read and comprehend literature in the grades 11-CCR text complexity band proficiently, with scaffolding as needed. By the end of grade 12, read and comprehend independently.
Key skills: Reading comprehension, Text complexityCite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text, including determining where the text leaves matters uncertain.
Key skills: Evidence citation, InferenceDetermine two or more central ideas of a text and analyze their development over the course of the text, including how they interact and build on one another; provide an objective summary.
Key skills: Central ideas, Objective summaryAnalyze a complex set of ideas or sequence of events and explain how specific individuals, ideas, or events interact and develop over the course of the text.
Key skills: Idea interaction, Event analysisDetermine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative, connotative, and technical meanings; analyze how an author uses and refines the meaning of a key term.
Key skills: Technical vocabulary, Word refinementAnalyze and evaluate the effectiveness of the structure an author uses in his or her exposition or argument, including whether the structure makes points clear, convincing, and engaging.
Key skills: Expository structure, Argument evaluationDetermine an author's point of view or purpose in a text in which the rhetoric is particularly effective, analyzing how style and content contribute to the power, persuasiveness or beauty of the text.
Key skills: Rhetorical analysis, Author's purposeIntegrate and evaluate multiple sources of information presented in different media or formats (e.g., visually, quantitatively) as well as in words in order to address a question or solve a problem.
Key skills: Information integration, Problem solvingDelineate and evaluate the reasoning in seminal U.S. texts, including the application of constitutional principles and use of legal reasoning and the premises, purposes, and arguments in works of public advocacy.
Key skills: Legal reasoning, Argument evaluationAnalyze seventeenth-, eighteenth-, and nineteenth-century foundational U.S. documents of historical and literary significance for their themes, purposes, and rhetorical features.
Key skills: Historical documents, Rhetorical featuresBy the end of grade 11, read and comprehend literary nonfiction in the grades 11-CCR text complexity band proficiently. By the end of grade 12, read and comprehend independently.
Key skills: Nonfiction comprehension, Independent readingWrite arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
Key skills: Argumentative writing, Evidence usageIntroduce precise, knowledgeable claim(s), establish the significance of the claim(s), distinguish the claim(s) from alternate or opposing claims, and create an organization that logically sequences claim(s).
Key skills: Claim development, CounterclaimsDevelop claim(s) and counterclaims fairly and thoroughly, supplying the most relevant evidence for each while pointing out the strengths and limitations of both in a manner that anticipates the audience's knowledge.
Key skills: Evidence selection, Audience awarenessUse words, phrases, and clauses as well as varied syntax to link the major sections of the text, create cohesion, and clarify the relationships between claim(s) and reasons, and between reasons and evidence.
Key skills: Cohesion, Syntax varietyEstablish and maintain a formal style and objective tone while attending to the norms and conventions of the discipline in which they are writing.
Key skills: Formal style, Objective toneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented.
Key skills: Conclusion writing, Argument supportWrite informative/explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas, concepts, and information clearly and accurately through the effective selection, organization, and analysis of content.
Key skills: Informative writing, Content analysisIntroduce a topic; organize complex ideas, concepts, and information so that each new element builds on that which precedes it to create a unified whole; include formatting, graphics, and multimedia.
Key skills: Topic introduction, OrganizationDevelop the topic thoroughly by selecting the most significant and relevant facts, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples appropriate to the audience's knowledge.
Key skills: Topic development, Detail selectionUse appropriate and varied transitions and syntax to link the major sections of the text, create cohesion, and clarify the relationships among complex ideas and concepts.
Key skills: Transitions, CohesionUse precise language, domain-specific vocabulary, and techniques such as metaphor, simile, and analogy to manage the complexity of the topic.
Key skills: Precise language, Domain vocabularyEstablish and maintain a formal style and objective tone while attending to the norms and conventions of the discipline in which they are writing.
Key skills: Formal style, Objective toneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the information or explanation presented (e.g., articulating implications or the significance of the topic).
Key skills: Conclusion, SynthesisWrite narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, well-chosen details, and well-structured event sequences.
Key skills: Narrative writing, Event sequencingEngage and orient the reader by setting out a problem, situation, or observation and its significance, establishing one or multiple point(s) of view, and creating a smooth progression of experiences or events.
Key skills: Narrative engagement, Point of viewUse narrative techniques, such as dialogue, pacing, description, reflection, and multiple plot lines, to develop experiences, events, and/or characters.
Key skills: Dialogue, PacingUse a variety of techniques to sequence events so that they build on one another to create a coherent whole and build toward a particular tone and outcome (e.g., a sense of mystery, suspense, growth, or resolution).
Key skills: Sequencing, Tone buildingUse precise words and phrases, telling details, and sensory language to convey a vivid picture of the experiences, events, setting, and/or characters.
Key skills: Sensory language, Vivid detailsProvide a conclusion that follows from and reflects on what is experienced, observed, or resolved over the course of the narrative.
Key skills: Narrative conclusion, ReflectionProduce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
Key skills: Clear writing, Audience appropriatenessDevelop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach, focusing on addressing what is most significant for a specific purpose and audience.
Key skills: Revision, EditingUse technology, including the Internet, to produce, publish, and update individual or shared writing products in response to ongoing feedback, including new arguments or information.
Key skills: Digital publishing, CollaborationConduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question or solve a problem; narrow or broaden the inquiry when appropriate; synthesize multiple sources on the subject.
Key skills: Research projects, SynthesisGather relevant information from multiple authoritative print and digital sources, using advanced searches effectively; assess the strengths and limitations of each source in terms of the task, purpose, and audience.
Key skills: Source evaluation, CitationDraw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.
Key skills: Evidence drawing, Literary analysisWrite routinely over extended time frames (time for research, reflection, and revision) and shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or two) for a range of tasks, purposes, and audiences.
Key skills: Writing stamina, Range of tasksInitiate and participate effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners on grades 11-12 topics, texts, and issues, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.
Key skills: Collaborative discussion, Idea buildingCome to discussions prepared, having read and researched material under study; explicitly draw on that preparation by referring to evidence from texts and other research on the topic or issue.
Key skills: Preparation, Evidence usageWork with peers to promote civil, democratic discussions and decision-making, set clear goals and deadlines, and establish individual roles as needed.
Key skills: Civil discourse, Group rolesPropel conversations by posing and responding to questions that probe reasoning and evidence; ensure a hearing for a full range of positions on a topic or issue; clarify, verify, or challenge ideas and conclusions.
Key skills: Questioning, Critical thinkingRespond thoughtfully to diverse perspectives; synthesize comments, claims, and evidence made on all sides of an issue; resolve contradictions when possible; and determine what additional information is required.
Key skills: Perspective taking, SynthesisIntegrate multiple sources of information presented in diverse formats and media (e.g., visually, quantitatively, orally) in order to make informed decisions and solve problems.
Key skills: Media integration, Decision makingEvaluate a speaker's point of view, reasoning, and use of evidence and rhetoric, assessing the stance, premises, links among ideas, word choice, points of emphasis, and tone used.
Key skills: Speaker evaluation, Rhetorical assessmentPresent information, findings, and supporting evidence, conveying a clear and distinct perspective, such that listeners can follow the line of reasoning, alternative perspectives are addressed, and the organization is appropriate.
Key skills: Oral presentation, ReasoningMake strategic use of digital media (e.g., textual, graphical, audio, visual, and interactive elements) in presentations to enhance understanding of findings, reasoning, and evidence and to add interest.
Key skills: Digital media, Visual aidsAdapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating a command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.
Key skills: Speech adaptation, Formal EnglishDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
Key skills: Grammar, UsageApply the understanding that usage is a matter of convention, can change over time, and is sometimes contested.
Key skills: Language conventions, Usage historyResolve issues of complex or contested usage, consulting references (e.g., Merriam-Webster's Dictionary of English Usage, Garner's Modern American Usage) as needed.
Key skills: Reference usage, Problem solvingDemonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.
Key skills: Punctuation, SpellingObserve hyphenation conventions.
Key skills: Hyphenation, MechanicsSpell correctly.
Key skills: Spelling, AccuracyApply knowledge of language to understand how language functions in different contexts, to make effective choices for meaning or style, and to comprehend more fully when reading or listening.
Key skills: Language function, Style choicesVary syntax for effect, consulting references for guidance as needed; apply an understanding of syntax to the study of complex texts when reading.
Key skills: Syntax variation, Textual analysisDetermine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grades 11-12 reading and content, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies.
Key skills: Vocabulary acquisition, Context cluesUse context (e.g., the overall meaning of a sentence, paragraph, or text; a word's position or function in a sentence) as a clue to the meaning of a word or phrase.
Key skills: Contextual clues, InferenceIdentify and correctly utilize patterns of word changes that indicate different meanings or parts of speech (e.g., conceive, conception, conceivable).
Key skills: Word patterns, EtymologyConsult general and specialized reference materials (e.g., dictionaries, glossaries, thesauruses), both print and digital, to find the pronunciation of a word or determine its precise meaning.
Key skills: Reference materials, PronunciationVerify the preliminary determination of the meaning of a word or phrase (e.g., by checking the inferred meaning in context or in a dictionary).
Key skills: Verification, Dictionary useDemonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.
Key skills: Figurative language, NuanceInterpret figures of speech (e.g., hyperbole, paradox) in context and analyze their role in the text.
Key skills: Interpretation, Rhetorical devicesAnalyze nuances in the meaning of words with similar denotations.
Key skills: Denotation, ConnotationAcquire and use accurately general academic and domain-specific words and phrases, sufficient for reading, writing, speaking, and listening at the college and career readiness level.
Key skills: Academic vocabulary, Domain-specific termsCite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources, connecting insights gained from specific details to an understanding of the text as a whole.
Key skills: Primary sources, Evidence citationDetermine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source; provide an accurate summary that makes clear the relationships among the key details and ideas.
Key skills: Central ideas, Historical summaryEvaluate various explanations for actions or events and determine which explanation best accords with textual evidence, acknowledging where the text leaves matters uncertain.
Key skills: Event evaluation, Evidence matchingDetermine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including analyzing how an author uses and refines the meaning of a key term over the course of a text.
Key skills: Historical vocabulary, Term refinementAnalyze in detail how a complex primary source is structured, including how key sentences, paragraphs, and larger portions of the text contribute to the whole.
Key skills: Source structure, Textual analysisEvaluate authors' differing points of view on the same historical event or issue by assessing the authors' claims, reasoning, and evidence.
Key skills: Point of view, Comparative historyIntegrate and evaluate multiple sources of information presented in diverse formats and media (e.g., visually, quantitatively, as well as in words) in order to address a question or solve a problem.
Key skills: Data integration, Problem solvingEvaluate an author's premises, claims, and evidence by corroborating or challenging them with other information.
Key skills: Corroboration, Claim evaluationIntegrate information from diverse sources, both primary and secondary, into a coherent understanding of an idea or event, noting discrepancies among sources.
Key skills: Synthesis, Discrepancy analysisBy the end of grade 12, read and comprehend history/social studies texts in the grades 11-CCR text complexity band independently and proficiently.
Key skills: Independent reading, Historical literacyCite specific textual evidence to support analysis of science and technical texts, attending to important distinctions the author makes and to any gaps or inconsistencies in the account.
Key skills: Technical evidence, Inconsistency analysisDetermine the central ideas or conclusions of a text; summarize complex concepts, processes, or information presented in a text by paraphrasing them in simpler but still accurate terms.
Key skills: Scientific summary, ParaphrasingFollow precisely a complex multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks; analyze the specific results based on explanations in the text.
Key skills: Procedural following, Result analysisDetermine the meaning of symbols, key terms, and other domain-specific words and phrases as they are used in a specific scientific or technical context relevant to grades 11-12 texts and topics.
Key skills: Scientific symbols, Technical termsAnalyze how the text structures information or ideas into categories or hierarchies, demonstrating understanding of the information or ideas.
Key skills: Information structure, Hierarchy analysisAnalyze the author's purpose in providing an explanation, describing a procedure, or discussing an experiment in a text, identifying important issues that remain unresolved.
Key skills: Author's purpose, Unresolved issuesIntegrate and evaluate multiple sources of information presented in diverse formats and media (e.g., quantitative data, video, multimedia) in order to address a question or solve a problem.
Key skills: Data evaluation, Multimedia integrationEvaluate the hypotheses, data, analysis, and conclusions in a science or technical text, verifying the data when possible and corroborating or challenging conclusions with other sources of information.
Key skills: Hypothesis evaluation, Data verificationSynthesize information from a range of sources (e.g., texts, experiments, simulations) into a coherent understanding of a process, phenomenon, or concept, resolving conflicting information.
Key skills: Synthesis, Conflict resolutionBy the end of grade 12, read and comprehend science/technical texts in the grades 11-CCR text complexity band independently and proficiently.
Key skills: Technical reading, Scientific literacyWrite arguments focused on discipline-specific content.
Key skills: Disciplinary argument, Content focusIntroduce precise, knowledgeable claim(s), establish the significance of the claim(s), distinguish the claim(s) from alternate or opposing claims, and create an organization that logically sequences the claim(s).
Key skills: Claim introduction, Logical sequencingDevelop claim(s) and counterclaims fairly and thoroughly, supplying the most relevant data and evidence for each while pointing out the strengths and limitations of both.
Key skills: Evidence usage, Counterclaim developmentUse words, phrases, and clauses as well as varied syntax to link the major sections of the text, create cohesion, and clarify the relationships between claim(s) and reasons.
Key skills: Cohesion, Syntax varietyEstablish and maintain a formal style and objective tone while attending to the norms and conventions of the discipline in which they are writing.
Key skills: Formal style, Objective toneProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented.
Key skills: Conclusion, Argument supportWrite informative/explanatory texts, including the narration of historical events, scientific procedures/ experiments, or technical processes.
Key skills: Informative writing, Process narrationIntroduce a topic and organize complex ideas, concepts, and information so that each new element builds on that which precedes it to create a unified whole.
Key skills: Topic introduction, OrganizationDevelop the topic thoroughly by selecting the most significant and relevant facts, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples.
Key skills: Topic development, Detail selectionUse appropriate and varied transitions and syntax to link the major sections of the text, create cohesion, and clarify the relationships among complex ideas and concepts.
Key skills: Transitions, CohesionUse precise language, domain-specific vocabulary and techniques such as metaphor, simile, and analogy to manage the complexity of the topic.
Key skills: Precise language, Domain vocabularyProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the information or explanation provided.
Key skills: Conclusion, SynthesisProduce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
Key skills: Clear writing, Audience appropriatenessDevelop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach, focusing on addressing what is most significant for a specific purpose and audience.
Key skills: Revision, EditingUse technology, including the Internet, to produce, publish, and update individual or shared writing products in response to ongoing feedback, including new arguments or information.
Key skills: Digital publishing, CollaborationConduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question or solve a problem; narrow or broaden the inquiry when appropriate; synthesize multiple sources on the subject.
Key skills: Research projects, SynthesisGather relevant information from multiple authoritative print and digital sources, using advanced searches effectively; assess the strengths and limitations of each source.
Key skills: Source evaluation, CitationDraw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.
Key skills: Evidence drawing, AnalysisWrite routinely over extended time frames (time for reflection and revision) and shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or two) for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.
Key skills: Writing stamina, Range of tasksCount to 100 by ones and by tens.
Key skills: Counting to 100, Skip counting by tensCount forward beginning from a given number within the known sequence (instead of having to begin at 1).
Key skills: Counting forward, Number sequencesWrite numbers from 0 to 20. Represent a number of objects with a written numeral 0-20.
Key skills: Writing numerals, Representing quantitiesUnderstand the relationship between numbers and quantities; connect counting to cardinality.
Key skills: One-to-one correspondence, CardinalityWhen counting objects, say the number names in the standard order, pairing each object with one and only one number name.
Key skills: Standard order counting, One-to-one pairingUnderstand that the last number name said tells the number of objects counted. The number is the same regardless of arrangement.
Key skills: Cardinality, Conservation of numberUnderstand that each successive number name refers to a quantity that is one larger.
Key skills: Successive numbers, Incremental countingCount to answer 'how many?' questions about as many as 20 things in a line, array, or circle, or 10 things scattered.
Key skills: Counting objects, Set representationIdentify whether the number of objects in one group is greater than, less than, or equal to the number in another group.
Key skills: Comparing sets, Greater/less thanCompare two numbers between 1 and 10 presented as written numerals.
Key skills: Comparing numerals, Number magnitudeRepresent addition and subtraction with objects, fingers, mental images, drawings, sounds, acting out situations, expressions, or equations.
Key skills: Addition representation, Subtraction representationSolve addition and subtraction word problems, and add and subtract within 10, e.g., by using objects or drawings.
Key skills: Word problems, Adding/subtracting within 10Decompose numbers less than or equal to 10 into pairs in more than one way using objects or drawings.
Key skills: Number decomposition, Pairing numbersFor any number from 1 to 9, find the number that makes 10 when added to the given number.
Key skills: Making ten, Missing addendsFluently add and subtract within 5.
Key skills: Fluency within 5, Mental mathCompose and decompose numbers from 11 to 19 into ten ones and some further ones using objects or drawings.
Key skills: Place value foundations, Teen numbersDescribe measurable attributes of objects, such as length or weight. Describe several measurable attributes of a single object.
Key skills: Measurable attributes, Describing objectsDirectly compare two objects with a measurable attribute in common, to see which object has 'more of'/'less of' the attribute.
Key skills: Direct comparison, Measurement vocabularyClassify objects into given categories; count the numbers of objects in each category and sort the categories by count.
Key skills: Categorizing objects, Sorting and countingDescribe objects in the environment using names of shapes, and describe the relative positions of these objects.
Key skills: Spatial relations, Positional wordsCorrectly name shapes regardless of their orientations or overall size.
Key skills: Shape naming, Geometric identificationIdentify shapes as two-dimensional (lying in a plane, 'flat') or three-dimensional ('solid').
Key skills: 2D vs 3D shapes, Flat vs solidAnalyze and compare two- and three-dimensional shapes, in different sizes and orientations, using informal language to describe attributes.
Key skills: Shape analysis, Comparing attributesModel shapes in the world by building shapes from components (e.g., sticks and clay balls) and drawing shapes.
Key skills: Building shapes, Drawing shapesCompose simple shapes to form larger shapes.
Key skills: Composing shapes, Spatial reasoningUse addition and subtraction within 20 to solve word problems involving situations of adding to, taking from, putting together, taking apart, and comparing, with unknowns in all positions.
Key skills: Word problems, Addition and subtractionSolve word problems that call for addition of three whole numbers whose sum is less than or equal to 20, e.g., by using objects, drawings, and equations.
Key skills: Adding three numbers, Problem solvingApply properties of operations as strategies to add and subtract. Examples: If 8 + 3 = 11 is known, then 3 + 8 = 11 is also known. (Commutative property of addition.)
Key skills: Commutative property, Associative propertyUnderstand subtraction as an unknown-addend problem. For example, subtract 10 - 8 by finding the number that makes 10 when added to 8.
Key skills: Subtraction logic, Inverse operationsRelate counting to addition and subtraction (e.g., by counting on 2 to add 2).
Key skills: Counting on, Counting backAdd and subtract within 20, demonstrating fluency for addition and subtraction within 10. Use strategies such as making ten, decomposing numbers, and using the relationship between addition and subtraction.
Key skills: Math fluency, Mental strategiesUnderstand the meaning of the equal sign, and determine if equations involving addition and subtraction are true or false.
Key skills: Equal sign meaning, Equation analysisDetermine the unknown whole number in an addition or subtraction equation relating three whole numbers.
Key skills: Finding unknowns, Algebraic thinkingCount to 120, starting at any number less than 120. In this range, read and write numerals and represent a number of objects with a written numeral.
Key skills: Counting to 120, Writing numeralsUnderstand that the two digits of a two-digit number represent amounts of tens and ones.
Key skills: Place value, Tens and ones10 can be thought of as a bundle of ten ones — called a 'ten.'
Key skills: Grouping, UnitizingThe numbers from 11 to 19 are composed of a ten and one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or nine ones.
Key skills: Teen numbers, DecomposingThe numbers 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 refer to one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or nine tens (and 0 ones).
Key skills: Multiples of ten, Base tenCompare two two-digit numbers based on meanings of the tens and ones digits, recording the results of comparisons with the symbols >, =, and <.
Key skills: Comparing numbers, Inequality symbolsAdd within 100, including adding a two-digit number and a one-digit number, and adding a two-digit number and a multiple of 10, using concrete models or drawings.
Key skills: Addition within 100, Place value additionGiven a two-digit number, mentally find 10 more or 10 less than the number, without having to count; explain the reasoning used.
Key skills: Mental math, Ten more/lessSubtract multiples of 10 in the range 10-90 from multiples of 10 in the range 10-90, using concrete models or drawings and strategies based on place value.
Key skills: Subtracting tens, Place value subtractionOrder three objects by length; compare the lengths of two objects indirectly by using a third object.
Key skills: Ordering length, Indirect comparisonExpress the length of an object as a whole number of length units, by laying multiple copies of a shorter object end to end.
Key skills: Measuring length, Iterating unitsTell and write time in hours and half-hours using analog and digital clocks.
Key skills: Telling time, Analog and digitalOrganize, represent, and interpret data with up to three categories; ask and answer questions about the total number of data points and comparisons between categories.
Key skills: Data interpretation, CategorizingDistinguish between defining attributes versus non-defining attributes; build and draw shapes to possess defining attributes.
Key skills: Shape attributes, Drawing shapesCompose two-dimensional shapes or three-dimensional shapes to create a composite shape, and compose new shapes from the composite shape.
Key skills: Composing shapes, Spatial reasoningPartition circles and rectangles into two and four equal shares, describe the shares using the words halves, fourths, and quarters.
Key skills: Fractions, PartitioningUse addition and subtraction within 100 to solve one- and two-step word problems involving situations of adding to, taking from, putting together, taking apart, and comparing.
Key skills: Word problems, Addition and subtractionFluently add and subtract within 20 using mental strategies. By end of Grade 2, know from memory all sums of two one-digit numbers.
Key skills: Mental math, Addition fluencyDetermine whether a group of objects (up to 20) has an odd or even number of members; write an equation to express an even number as a sum of two equal addends.
Key skills: Odd and even, Equal addendsUse addition to find the total number of objects arranged in rectangular arrays with up to 5 rows and up to 5 columns; write an equation to express the total.
Key skills: Rectangular arrays, Repeated additionUnderstand that the three digits of a three-digit number represent amounts of hundreds, tens, and ones; e.g., 706 equals 7 hundreds, 0 tens, and 6 ones.
Key skills: Place value, Three-digit numbers100 can be thought of as a bundle of ten tens — called a 'hundred.'
Key skills: Place value, Bundling tensThe numbers 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 refer to one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or nine hundreds.
Key skills: Place value, Multiples of 100Count within 1000; skip-count by 5s, 10s, and 100s.
Key skills: Counting to 1000, Skip-countingRead and write numbers to 1000 using base-ten numerals, number names, and expanded form.
Key skills: Number forms, Reading numbersCompare two three-digit numbers based on meanings of the hundreds, tens, and ones digits, using >, =, and < symbols to record the results of comparisons.
Key skills: Comparing numbers, Place valueFluently add and subtract within 100 using strategies based on place value, properties of operations, and/or the relationship between addition and subtraction.
Key skills: Addition fluency, Subtraction fluencyAdd up to four two-digit numbers using strategies based on place value and properties of operations.
Key skills: Multi-digit addition, Place value strategiesAdd and subtract within 1000, using concrete models or drawings and strategies based on place value, properties of operations, and/or the relationship between addition and subtraction.
Key skills: Addition within 1000, Subtraction within 1000Mentally add 10 or 100 to a given number 100–900, and mentally subtract 10 or 100 from a given number 100–900.
Key skills: Mental math, Place valueExplain why addition and subtraction strategies work, using place value and the properties of operations.
Key skills: Mathematical reasoning, Place valueMeasure the length of an object by selecting and using appropriate tools such as rulers, yardsticks, meter sticks, and measuring tapes.
Key skills: Measuring length, Measurement toolsMeasure the length of an object twice, using length units of different lengths for the two measurements; describe how the two measurements relate to the unit size.
Key skills: Unit comparison, Measuring lengthEstimate lengths using units of inches, feet, centimeters, and meters.
Key skills: Estimation, Measurement unitsMeasure to determine how much longer one object is than another, expressing the length difference in terms of a standard length unit.
Key skills: Comparing lengths, SubtractionUse addition and subtraction within 100 to solve word problems involving lengths that are given in the same units.
Key skills: Measurement word problems, Addition and subtractionRepresent whole numbers as lengths from 0 on a number line diagram and represent whole-number sums and differences within 100 on a number line diagram.
Key skills: Number lines, Addition and subtractionTell and write time from analog and digital clocks to the nearest five minutes, using a.m. and p.m.
Key skills: Telling time, Analog and digital clocksSolve word problems involving dollar bills, quarters, dimes, nickels, and pennies, using $ and ¢ symbols appropriately.
Key skills: Money word problems, Currency symbolsGenerate measurement data by measuring lengths of several objects to the nearest whole unit. Show the measurements by making a line plot.
Key skills: Data collection, Line plotsDraw a picture graph and a bar graph to represent a data set with up to four categories. Solve simple put-together, take-apart, and compare problems.
Key skills: Graphing, Data interpretationRecognize and draw shapes having specified attributes, such as a given number of angles or a given number of equal faces. Identify triangles, quadrilaterals, pentagons, hexagons, and cubes.
Key skills: Shape attributes, Identifying shapesPartition a rectangle into rows and columns of same-size squares and count to find the total number of them.
Key skills: Partitioning, Area foundationsPartition circles and rectangles into two, three, or four equal shares, describe the shares using the words halves, thirds, half of, etc., and describe the whole.
Key skills: Fractions, Partitioning shapesMake sense of problems and persevere in solving them.
Key skills: Problem solving, PersistenceReason abstractly and quantitatively.
Key skills: Logical reasoning, Quantitative analysisConstruct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others.
Key skills: Communication, Critical thinkingModel with mathematics.
Key skills: Modeling, Real-world applicationUse appropriate tools strategically.
Key skills: Tool selection, Strategic thinkingAttend to precision.
Key skills: Accuracy, PrecisionLook for and make use of structure.
Key skills: Pattern recognition, Structural analysisLook for and express regularity in repeated reasoning.
Key skills: Generalization, Repeated reasoningInterpret products of whole numbers, e.g., interpret 5 × 7 as the total number of objects in 5 groups of 7 objects each.
Key skills: Interpret products, Group objectsInterpret whole-number quotients of whole numbers, e.g., interpret 56 ÷ 8 as the number of objects in each share when 56 objects are partitioned equally.
Key skills: Interpret quotients, Partition setsUse multiplication and division within 100 to solve word problems in situations involving equal groups, arrays, and measurement quantities.
Key skills: Solve word problems, Model multiplication/divisionDetermine the unknown whole number in a multiplication or division equation relating three whole numbers.
Key skills: Find unknown numbers, Solve equationsApply properties of operations as strategies to multiply and divide. Examples: Commutative, Associative, and Distributive properties.
Key skills: Apply properties, Multiplication strategiesUnderstand division as an unknown-factor problem. For example, find 32 ÷ 8 by finding the number that makes 32 when multiplied by 8.
Key skills: Relate multiplication/division, Find unknown factorsFluently multiply and divide within 100, using strategies such as the relationship between multiplication and division or properties of operations.
Key skills: Mental math fluency, Recall factsSolve two-step word problems using the four operations. Represent these problems using equations with a letter standing for the unknown quantity.
Key skills: Multi-step problems, Write equationsIdentify arithmetic patterns (including patterns in the addition table or multiplication table), and explain them using properties of operations.
Key skills: Identify patterns, Explain arithmetic rulesUse place value understanding to round whole numbers to the nearest 10 or 100.
Key skills: Rounding, Place valueFluently add and subtract within 1000 using strategies and algorithms based on place value, properties of operations, and/or the relationship between addition and subtraction.
Key skills: Multi-digit addition, Multi-digit subtractionMultiply one-digit whole numbers by multiples of 10 in the range 10-90 using strategies based on place value and properties of operations.
Key skills: Multiply by tens, Place value strategiesUnderstand a fraction 1/b as the quantity formed by 1 part when a whole is partitioned into b equal parts; understand a/b as the quantity formed by a parts of size 1/b.
Key skills: Unit fractions, Fraction notationUnderstand a fraction as a number on the number line; represent fractions on a number line diagram.
Key skills: Number line, Fraction representationRepresent a fraction 1/b on a number line diagram by defining the interval from 0 to 1 as the whole and partitioning it into b equal parts.
Key skills: Partition number line, Locate unit fractionsRepresent a fraction a/b on a number line diagram by marking off a lengths 1/b from 0.
Key skills: Locate fractions, Measure intervalsExplain equivalence of fractions in special cases, and compare fractions by reasoning about their size.
Key skills: Fraction equivalence, Compare fractionsUnderstand two fractions as equivalent (equal) if they are the same size, or the same point on a number line.
Key skills: Identify equivalence, Visual modelsRecognize and generate simple equivalent fractions. Explain why the fractions are equivalent, e.g., by using a visual fraction model.
Key skills: Generate equivalent fractions, Explain equivalenceExpress whole numbers as fractions, and recognize fractions that are equivalent to whole numbers.
Key skills: Whole numbers as fractions, Identify whole equivalentsCompare two fractions with the same numerator or the same denominator by reasoning about their size. Record results with symbols >, =, or <.
Key skills: Compare numerators, Compare denominatorsTell and write time to the nearest minute and measure time intervals in minutes. Solve word problems involving addition and subtraction of time intervals.
Key skills: Tell time, Elapsed timeMeasure and estimate liquid volumes and masses of objects using standard units of grams (g), kilograms (kg), and liters (l).
Key skills: Measure volume, Measure massDraw a scaled picture graph and a scaled bar graph to represent a data set with several categories. Solve one- and two-step problems using the data.
Key skills: Scaled graphs, Interpret dataGenerate measurement data by measuring lengths using rulers marked with halves and fourths of an inch. Show the data by making a line plot.
Key skills: Measure length, Line plotsRecognize area as an attribute of plane figures and understand concepts of area measurement.
Key skills: Area concept, Unit squaresA square with side length 1 unit, called 'a unit square,' is said to have 'one square unit' of area, and can be used to measure area.
Key skills: Define unit square, Measure areaA plane figure which can be covered without gaps or overlaps by n unit squares is said to have an area of n square units.
Key skills: Calculate area, TilingMeasure areas by counting unit squares (square cm, square m, square in, square ft, and improvised units).
Key skills: Count unit squares, Measure areaRelate area to the operations of multiplication and addition.
Key skills: Relate area/multiplication, Area modelsFind the area of a rectangle with whole-number side lengths by tiling it, and show that the area is the same as would be found by multiplying the side lengths.
Key skills: Tiling rectangles, Verify area formulaMultiply side lengths to find areas of rectangles with whole-number side lengths in the context of solving real world and mathematical problems.
Key skills: Area formula, Solve area problemsUse tiling to show in a concrete case that the area of a rectangle with side lengths a and b + c is the sum of a × b and a × c.
Key skills: Distributive property, Area decompositionRecognize area as additive. Find areas of rectilinear figures by decomposing them into non-overlapping rectangles.
Key skills: Additive area, Decompose shapesSolve real world and mathematical problems involving perimeters of polygons, including finding the perimeter given side lengths or finding an unknown side length.
Key skills: Calculate perimeter, Find unknown sidesUnderstand that shapes in different categories may share attributes, and that the shared attributes can define a larger category. Recognize quadrilaterals.
Key skills: Classify shapes, Identify attributesPartition shapes into parts with equal areas. Express the area of each part as a unit fraction of the whole.
Key skills: Partition shapes, Fractional areaInterpret a multiplication equation as a comparison, e.g., interpret 35 = 5 x 7 as a statement that 35 is 5 times as many as 7 and 7 times as many as 5.
Key skills: Multiplicative comparison, Equation interpretationMultiply or divide to solve word problems involving multiplicative comparison, e.g., by using drawings and equations with a symbol for the unknown number to represent the problem.
Key skills: Word problems, Multiplicative comparisonSolve multistep word problems posed with whole numbers and having whole-number answers using the four operations, including problems in which remainders must be interpreted.
Key skills: Multistep problems, Remainder interpretationFind all factor pairs for a whole number in the range 1-100. Recognize that a whole number is a multiple of each of its factors.
Key skills: Factor pairs, Prime and compositeGenerate a number or shape pattern that follows a given rule. Identify apparent features of the pattern that were not explicit in the rule itself.
Key skills: Pattern generation, Rule analysisRecognize that in a multi-digit whole number, a digit in one place represents ten times what it represents in the place to its right.
Key skills: Place value, Base-ten understandingRead and write multi-digit whole numbers using base-ten numerals, number names, and expanded form. Compare two multi-digit numbers based on meanings of the digits.
Key skills: Number forms, Comparing numbersUse place value understanding to round multi-digit whole numbers to any place.
Key skills: Rounding, Place valueFluently add and subtract multi-digit whole numbers using the standard algorithm.
Key skills: Addition, SubtractionMultiply a whole number of up to four digits by a one-digit whole number, and multiply two two-digit numbers, using strategies based on place value.
Key skills: Multiplication, Area modelsFind whole-number quotients and remainders with up to four-digit dividends and one-digit divisors, using strategies based on place value.
Key skills: Division, Partial quotientsExplain why a fraction a/b is equivalent to a fraction (n x a)/(n x b) by using visual fraction models.
Key skills: Equivalent fractions, Visual modelsCompare two fractions with different numerators and different denominators, e.g., by creating common denominators or numerators.
Key skills: Comparing fractions, Common denominatorsUnderstand addition and subtraction of fractions as joining and separating parts referring to the same whole.
Key skills: Fraction addition, Fraction subtractionDecompose a fraction into a sum of fractions with the same denominator in more than one way, recording each decomposition by an equation.
Key skills: Decomposing fractions, Fraction equationsAdd and subtract mixed numbers with like denominators, e.g., by replacing each mixed number with an equivalent fraction.
Key skills: Mixed numbers, Like denominatorsSolve word problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions referring to the same whole and having like denominators.
Key skills: Fraction word problems, Visual modelsUnderstand a fraction a/b as a multiple of 1/b.
Key skills: Unit fractions, MultiplesUnderstand a multiple of a/b as a multiple of 1/b, and use this understanding to multiply a fraction by a whole number.
Key skills: Fraction multiplication, Whole number scalingSolve word problems involving multiplication of a fraction by a whole number, e.g., by using visual fraction models and equations.
Key skills: Word problems, Fraction multiplicationExpress a fraction with denominator 10 as an equivalent fraction with denominator 100, and use this technique to add two fractions with respective denominators 10 and 100.
Key skills: Decimal fractions, Equivalent denominatorsUse decimal notation for fractions with denominators 10 or 100.
Key skills: Decimal notation, Fraction conversionCompare two decimals to hundredths by reasoning about their size. Recognize that comparisons are valid only when the two decimals refer to the same whole.
Key skills: Comparing decimals, Place valueKnow relative sizes of measurement units within one system of units including km, m, cm; kg, g; lb, oz.; l, ml; hr, min, sec.
Key skills: Measurement units, Conversion tablesUse the four operations to solve word problems involving distances, intervals of time, liquid volumes, masses of objects, and money.
Key skills: Measurement problems, Unit conversionApply the area and perimeter formulas for rectangles in real world and mathematical problems.
Key skills: Area, PerimeterMake a line plot to display a data set of measurements in fractions of a unit (1/2, 1/4, 1/8). Solve problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions using line plots.
Key skills: Line plots, Data interpretationAn angle is measured with reference to a circle with its center at the common endpoint of the rays, by considering the fraction of the circular arc between the rays.
Key skills: Angle concepts, Circular measurementAn angle that turns through n one-degree angles is said to have an angle measure of n degrees.
Key skills: Degree measurement, Angle unitsMeasure angles in whole-number degrees using a protractor. Sketch angles of specified measure.
Key skills: Using protractors, Sketching anglesRecognize angle measure as additive. When an angle is decomposed into non-overlapping parts, the angle measure of the whole is the sum of the angle measures of the parts.
Key skills: Additive angles, Solving for unknownsDraw points, lines, line segments, rays, angles (right, acute, obtuse), and perpendicular and parallel lines. Identify these in two-dimensional figures.
Key skills: Geometric drawing, Identifying lines/anglesClassify two-dimensional figures based on the presence or absence of parallel or perpendicular lines, or the presence or absence of angles of a specified size.
Key skills: Shape classification, TrianglesRecognize a line of symmetry for a two-dimensional figure as a line across the figure such that the figure can be folded along the line into matching parts.
Key skills: Symmetry, Line identificationUse parentheses, brackets, or braces in numerical expressions, and evaluate expressions with these symbols.
Key skills: Order of operations, Evaluate expressionsWrite simple expressions that record calculations with numbers, and interpret numerical expressions without evaluating them.
Key skills: Write expressions, Interpret expressionsGenerate two numerical patterns using two given rules. Identify apparent relationships between corresponding terms.
Key skills: Pattern generation, Coordinate pairsRecognize that in a multi-digit number, a digit in one place represents 10 times as much as it represents in the place to its right.
Key skills: Place value, Base-ten systemExplain patterns in the number of zeros of the product when multiplying a number by powers of 10.
Key skills: Powers of 10, ExponentsRead, write, and compare decimals to thousandths.
Key skills: Decimal notation, ComparisonRead and write decimals to thousandths using base-ten numerals, number names, and expanded form.
Key skills: Expanded form, Number namesCompare two decimals to thousandths based on meanings of the digits in each place, using >, =, and < symbols.
Key skills: Compare decimals, Inequality symbolsUse place value understanding to round decimals to any place.
Key skills: Rounding, Decimal estimationFluently multiply multi-digit whole numbers using the standard algorithm.
Key skills: Multiplication, Standard algorithmFind whole-number quotients of whole numbers with up to four-digit dividends and two-digit divisors.
Key skills: Division, QuotientsAdd, subtract, multiply, and divide decimals to hundredths, using concrete models or drawings.
Key skills: Decimal operations, Place value strategiesAdd and subtract fractions with unlike denominators (including mixed numbers) by replacing given fractions with equivalent fractions.
Key skills: Equivalent fractions, Fraction addition/subtractionSolve word problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions referring to the same whole.
Key skills: Word problems, Fraction estimationInterpret a fraction as division of the numerator by the denominator (a/b = a ÷ b).
Key skills: Fraction as division, Mixed numbersApply and extend previous understandings of multiplication to multiply a fraction or whole number by a fraction.
Key skills: Fraction multiplication, Area modelsInterpret the product (a/b) × q as a parts of a partition of q into b equal parts.
Key skills: Product interpretation, Fraction modelsFind the area of a rectangle with fractional side lengths by tiling it with unit squares.
Key skills: Area calculation, Fractional sidesInterpret multiplication as scaling (resizing).
Key skills: Scaling, Multiplication logicCompare the size of a product to the size of one factor on the basis of the size of the other factor.
Key skills: Scaling comparison, Product sizeExplain why multiplying a given number by a fraction greater than 1 results in a product greater than the given number.
Key skills: Scaling logic, Fraction propertiesSolve real world problems involving multiplication of fractions and mixed numbers.
Key skills: Fraction word problems, Mixed number multiplicationApply and extend previous understandings of division to divide unit fractions by whole numbers and vice versa.
Key skills: Fraction division, Unit fractionsInterpret division of a unit fraction by a non-zero whole number, and compute such quotients.
Key skills: Unit fraction division, Quotient computationInterpret division of a whole number by a unit fraction, and compute such quotients.
Key skills: Whole number division, Unit fraction quotientsSolve real world problems involving division of unit fractions by non-zero whole numbers and vice versa.
Key skills: Division word problems, Fraction applicationConvert among different-sized standard measurement units within a given measurement system.
Key skills: Unit conversion, Multi-step problemsMake a line plot to display a data set of measurements in fractions of a unit (1/2, 1/4, 1/8).
Key skills: Line plots, Data analysisRecognize volume as an attribute of solid figures and understand concepts of volume measurement.
Key skills: Volume concepts, Solid figuresA cube with side length 1 unit, called a 'unit cube,' is said to have 'one cubic unit' of volume.
Key skills: Unit cubes, Cubic unitsA solid figure which can be packed without gaps or overlaps using n unit cubes is said to have a volume of n cubic units.
Key skills: Volume packing, Cubic measurementMeasure volumes by counting unit cubes, using cubic cm, cubic in, cubic ft, and improvised units.
Key skills: Volume measurement, Counting cubesRelate volume to the operations of multiplication and addition and solve real world problems involving volume.
Key skills: Volume formulas, Real-world volumeFind the volume of a right rectangular prism with whole-number side lengths by packing it with unit cubes.
Key skills: Prism volume, Packing cubesApply the formulas V = l × w × h and V = b × h for rectangular prisms to find volumes.
Key skills: Volume formulas, Rectangular prismsRecognize volume as additive. Find volumes of solid figures composed of two non-overlapping right rectangular prisms.
Key skills: Additive volume, Composite figuresUse a pair of perpendicular number lines, called axes, to define a coordinate system.
Key skills: Coordinate plane, Ordered pairsRepresent real world and mathematical problems by graphing points in the first quadrant of the coordinate plane.
Key skills: Graphing points, Coordinate applicationUnderstand that attributes belonging to a category of two-dimensional figures also belong to all subcategories of that category.
Key skills: Shape attributes, Geometric logicClassify two-dimensional figures in a hierarchy based on properties.
Key skills: Shape classification, Geometric hierarchyUnderstand the concept of a ratio and use ratio language to describe a ratio relationship between two quantities.
Key skills: Ratio concepts, Descriptive languageUnderstand the concept of a unit rate a/b associated with a ratio a:b with b ≠ 0, and use rate language.
Key skills: Unit rates, Rate languageUse ratio and rate reasoning to solve real-world and mathematical problems.
Key skills: Problem solving, Ratio reasoningMake tables of equivalent ratios, find missing values, and plot pairs of values on the coordinate plane.
Key skills: Ratio tables, Coordinate graphingSolve unit rate problems including those involving unit pricing and constant speed.
Key skills: Unit pricing, Constant speedFind a percent of a quantity as a rate per 100; solve problems involving finding the whole, given a part and percent.
Key skills: Percents, Part-whole relationshipsUse ratio reasoning to convert measurement units; manipulate and transform units appropriately.
Key skills: Unit conversion, Dimensional analysisInterpret and compute quotients of fractions, and solve word problems involving division of fractions by fractions.
Key skills: Fraction division, Visual modelsFluently divide multi-digit numbers using the standard algorithm.
Key skills: Long division, Computational fluencyFluently add, subtract, multiply, and divide multi-digit decimals using the standard algorithm for each operation.
Key skills: Decimal operations, Algorithm fluencyFind the greatest common factor of two whole numbers ≤ 100 and the least common multiple of two whole numbers ≤ 12.
Key skills: GCF and LCM, Distributive propertyUnderstand that positive and negative numbers are used together to describe quantities having opposite directions or values.
Key skills: Integers, Real-world contextUnderstand a rational number as a point on the number line.
Key skills: Rational numbers, Number linesRecognize opposite signs of numbers as indicating locations on opposite sides of 0 on the number line.
Key skills: Opposite numbers, Zero as originUnderstand signs of numbers in ordered pairs as indicating locations in quadrants of the coordinate plane.
Key skills: Coordinate quadrants, ReflectionsFind and position integers and other rational numbers on a horizontal or vertical number line or coordinate plane.
Key skills: Plotting points, Rational placementUnderstand ordering and absolute value of rational numbers.
Key skills: Ordering, Absolute valueInterpret statements of inequality as statements about the relative position of two numbers on a number line diagram.
Key skills: Inequalities, Relative positionWrite, interpret, and explain statements of order for rational numbers in real-world contexts.
Key skills: Contextual ordering, Rational comparisonUnderstand the absolute value of a rational number as its distance from 0 on the number line.
Key skills: Distance from zero, MagnitudeDistinguish comparisons of absolute value from statements about order.
Key skills: Magnitude vs order, Comparison skillsSolve real-world and mathematical problems by graphing points in all four quadrants of the coordinate plane.
Key skills: Coordinate geometry, Distance calculationWrite and evaluate numerical expressions involving whole-number exponents.
Key skills: Exponents, Numerical evaluationWrite, read, and evaluate expressions in which letters stand for numbers.
Key skills: Variables, Algebraic expressionsWrite expressions that record operations with numbers and with letters standing for numbers.
Key skills: Translating words, Operation symbolsIdentify parts of an expression using mathematical terms (sum, term, product, factor, quotient, coefficient).
Key skills: Math terminology, Expression structureEvaluate expressions at specific values of their variables, including formulas in real-world problems.
Key skills: Substitution, Order of operationsApply the properties of operations to generate equivalent expressions.
Key skills: Equivalent expressions, Operational propertiesIdentify when two expressions are equivalent.
Key skills: Equivalence, Simplifying expressionsUnderstand solving an equation or inequality as a process of answering a question about truth values.
Key skills: Solution sets, SubstitutionUse variables to represent numbers and write expressions when solving a real-world or mathematical problem.
Key skills: Modeling, Variable usageSolve real-world and mathematical problems by writing and solving equations of the form x + p = q and px = q.
Key skills: One-step equations, Rational solutionsWrite an inequality of the form x > c or x < c to represent a constraint or condition.
Key skills: Inequalities, Number line representationUse variables to represent two quantities in a real-world problem that change in relationship to one another.
Key skills: Dependent variables, Independent variablesFind the area of right triangles, other triangles, special quadrilaterals, and polygons by composing or decomposing.
Key skills: Area calculation, DecompositionFind the volume of a right rectangular prism with fractional edge lengths by packing it with unit cubes.
Key skills: Volume, Fractional edgesDraw polygons in the coordinate plane given coordinates for the vertices.
Key skills: Coordinate polygons, Side lengthRepresent three-dimensional figures using nets and use the nets to find surface area.
Key skills: Nets, Surface areaRecognize a statistical question as one that anticipates variability in the data.
Key skills: Statistical questions, VariabilityUnderstand that a set of data collected to answer a statistical question has a distribution.
Key skills: Data distribution, Center and spreadRecognize that a measure of center summarizes values with a single number, while variation describes spread.
Key skills: Measures of center, Measures of variationDisplay numerical data in plots on a number line, including dot plots, histograms, and box plots.
Key skills: Data visualization, Plotting dataSummarize numerical data sets in relation to their context.
Key skills: Data summary, Contextual analysisReporting the number of observations.
Key skills: Sample size, Data reportingDescribing the nature of the attribute under investigation, including how it was measured and its units.
Key skills: Attribute description, Measurement unitsGiving quantitative measures of center and variability, as well as describing overall patterns.
Key skills: Mean and median, IQR and MADRelating the choice of measures of center and variability to the shape of the data distribution.
Key skills: Measure selection, Distribution shapeCompute unit rates associated with ratios of fractions, including ratios of lengths, areas and other quantities measured in like or different units.
Key skills: Compute unit rates, Ratios of fractionsDecide whether two quantities are in a proportional relationship, e.g., by testing for equivalent ratios in a table or graphing on a coordinate plane.
Key skills: Identify proportional relationships, Test equivalent ratiosIdentify the constant of proportionality (unit rate) in tables, graphs, equations, diagrams, and verbal descriptions of proportional relationships.
Key skills: Identify constant of proportionality, Determine unit rateRepresent proportional relationships by equations.
Key skills: Write equations, Represent proportionsExplain what a point (x, y) on the graph of a proportional relationship means in terms of the situation, including (0, 0) and (1, r).
Key skills: Interpret graphs, Explain coordinate pointsUse proportional relationships to solve multistep ratio and percent problems.
Key skills: Solve percent problems, Apply ratiosDescribe situations in which opposite quantities combine to make 0.
Key skills: Combine opposites, Zero sumUnderstand p + q as the number located a distance |q| from p, in the positive or negative direction. Show that a number and its opposite have a sum of 0.
Key skills: Add rational numbers, Number line distanceUnderstand subtraction of rational numbers as adding the additive inverse, p - q = p + (-q). Show distance as the absolute value of the difference.
Key skills: Subtract rational numbers, Additive inverseApply properties of operations as strategies to add and subtract rational numbers.
Key skills: Apply properties, Add/subtract rational numbersUnderstand that multiplication is extended from fractions to rational numbers by requiring that operations continue to satisfy the properties of operations.
Key skills: Multiply rational numbers, Distributive propertyUnderstand that integers can be divided, provided that the divisor is not zero, and every quotient of integers is a rational number.
Key skills: Divide rational numbers, Integer quotientsApply properties of operations as strategies to multiply and divide rational numbers.
Key skills: Apply properties, Multiply/divide rational numbersConvert a rational number to a decimal using long division; know that the decimal form of a rational number terminates in 0s or eventually repeats.
Key skills: Convert fractions to decimals, Long divisionSolve real-world and mathematical problems involving the four operations with rational numbers.
Key skills: Solve rational number problems, Four operationsApply properties of operations as strategies to add, subtract, factor, and expand linear expressions with rational coefficients.
Key skills: Factor expressions, Expand expressionsUnderstand that rewriting an expression in different forms in a problem context can shed light on the problem and how the quantities in it are related.
Key skills: Rewrite expressions, Contextual understandingSolve multi-step real-life and mathematical problems posed with positive and negative rational numbers in any form, using tools strategically.
Key skills: Solve multi-step problems, Strategic tool useSolve word problems leading to equations of the form px + q = r and p(x + q) = r. Solve equations of these forms fluently.
Key skills: Solve linear equations, Model word problemsSolve word problems leading to inequalities of the form px + q > r or px + q < r. Graph the solution set and interpret it in context.
Key skills: Solve inequalities, Graph solution setsSolve problems involving scale drawings of geometric figures, including computing actual lengths and areas from a scale drawing.
Key skills: Scale drawings, Compute lengths/areasDraw geometric shapes with given conditions. Focus on constructing triangles from three measures of angles or sides.
Key skills: Construct triangles, Draw geometric shapesDescribe the two-dimensional figures that result from slicing three-dimensional figures, as in plane sections of right rectangular prisms and pyramids.
Key skills: Slice 3D figures, Describe 2D sectionsKnow the formulas for the area and circumference of a circle and use them to solve problems.
Key skills: Circle area, Circumference formulaUse facts about supplementary, complementary, vertical, and adjacent angles in a multi-step problem to write and solve simple equations for an unknown angle.
Key skills: Angle relationships, Solve for unknown anglesSolve real-world and mathematical problems involving area, volume and surface area of two- and three-dimensional objects.
Key skills: Calculate volume, Calculate surface areaUnderstand that statistics can be used to gain information about a population by examining a sample of the population.
Key skills: Understand sampling, Representative samplesUse data from a random sample to draw inferences about a population with an unknown characteristic of interest.
Key skills: Draw inferences, Analyze sample dataInformally assess the degree of visual overlap of two numerical data distributions with similar variabilities.
Key skills: Compare data sets, Visual overlapUse measures of center and measures of variability for numerical data from random samples to draw informal comparative inferences about two populations.
Key skills: Measures of center, Comparative inferencesUnderstand that the probability of a chance event is a number between 0 and 1 that expresses the likelihood of the event occurring.
Key skills: Probability scale, Likelihood of eventsApproximate the probability of a chance event by collecting data on the chance process that produces it and observing its long-run relative frequency.
Key skills: Approximate probability, Relative frequencyDevelop a uniform probability model by assigning equal probability to all outcomes, and use the model to determine probabilities of events.
Key skills: Uniform probability model, Determine probabilitiesDevelop a probability model by observing frequencies in data generated from a chance process.
Key skills: Non-uniform probability, Observed frequenciesUnderstand that the probability of a compound event is the fraction of outcomes in the sample space for which the compound event occurs.
Key skills: Compound event probability, Sample spaceRepresent sample spaces for compound events using methods such as organized lists, tables and tree diagrams.
Key skills: Represent sample spaces, Tree diagramsDesign and use a simulation to generate frequencies for compound events.
Key skills: Design simulations, Generate frequenciesKnow that numbers that are not rational are called irrational. Understand that every number has a decimal expansion.
Key skills: Identify irrational numbers, Convert decimals to fractionsUse rational approximations of irrational numbers to compare the size of irrational numbers and locate them on a number line.
Key skills: Approximate irrationals, Compare real numbersKnow and apply the properties of integer exponents to generate equivalent numerical expressions.
Key skills: Apply exponent rules, Simplify expressionsUse square root and cube root symbols to represent solutions to equations of the form x^2 = p and x^3 = p.
Key skills: Solve root equations, Evaluate perfect squares/cubesUse numbers expressed in the form of a single digit times an integer power of 10 to estimate very large or small quantities.
Key skills: Estimate with powers of 10, Compare magnitudesPerform operations with numbers expressed in scientific notation, including problems where both decimal and scientific notation are used.
Key skills: Scientific notation operations, Choose appropriate unitsGraph proportional relationships, interpreting the unit rate as the slope of the graph.
Key skills: Graph proportions, Interpret slope as unit rateUse similar triangles to explain why the slope m is the same between any two distinct points on a non-vertical line.
Key skills: Derive y=mx+b, Explain slope with similaritySolve linear equations in one variable.
Key skills: Solve linear equations, Simplify expressionsGive examples of linear equations in one variable with one solution, infinitely many solutions, or no solutions.
Key skills: Identify solution types, Transform equationsSolve linear equations with rational number coefficients, including those requiring the distributive property and collecting like terms.
Key skills: Distributive property, Combine like termsAnalyze and solve pairs of simultaneous linear equations.
Key skills: Solve systems of equations, Analyze intersectionsUnderstand that solutions to a system of two linear equations correspond to points of intersection of their graphs.
Key skills: Graph systems, Identify intersection pointsSolve systems of two linear equations in two variables algebraically, and estimate solutions by graphing.
Key skills: Algebraic substitution/elimination, Estimate by graphingSolve real-world and mathematical problems leading to two linear equations in two variables.
Key skills: Model real-world problems, Solve systemsUnderstand that a function is a rule that assigns to each input exactly one output.
Key skills: Define functions, Identify input/output pairsCompare properties of two functions each represented in a different way (algebraically, graphically, numerically, or verbally).
Key skills: Compare function rates, Analyze representationsInterpret the equation y = mx + b as defining a linear function, whose graph is a straight line.
Key skills: Identify linear functions, Contrast linear/nonlinearConstruct a function to model a linear relationship between two quantities.
Key skills: Determine rate of change, Write linear equationsDescribe qualitatively the functional relationship between two quantities by analyzing a graph.
Key skills: Analyze graph features, Sketch functionsVerify experimentally the properties of rotations, reflections, and translations.
Key skills: Perform transformations, Verify congruenceLines are taken to lines, and line segments to line segments of the same length.
Key skills: Preserve length, Transform linesAngles are taken to angles of the same measure.
Key skills: Preserve angle measure, Transform anglesParallel lines are taken to parallel lines.
Key skills: Preserve parallelism, Transform parallel linesUnderstand that a 2D figure is congruent to another if the second can be obtained by a sequence of rotations, reflections, and translations.
Key skills: Define congruence, Sequence transformationsDescribe the effect of dilations, translations, rotations, and reflections on two-dimensional figures using coordinates.
Key skills: Coordinate transformations, Apply scale factorsUnderstand that a 2D figure is similar to another if the second can be obtained by a sequence of transformations and dilations.
Key skills: Define similarity, Describe similarity sequencesUse informal arguments to establish facts about the angle sum and exterior angle of triangles and angles created by parallel lines.
Key skills: Triangle angle sum, Transversal angle relationshipsExplain a proof of the Pythagorean Theorem and its converse.
Key skills: Prove Pythagorean Theorem, Identify right trianglesApply the Pythagorean Theorem to determine unknown side lengths in right triangles in real-world and mathematical problems.
Key skills: Find missing sides, Solve 3D geometry problemsApply the Pythagorean Theorem to find the distance between two points in a coordinate system.
Key skills: Calculate distance, Use coordinate planesKnow the formulas for the volumes of cones, cylinders, and spheres and use them to solve real-world and mathematical problems.
Key skills: Calculate volume, Apply volume formulasConstruct and interpret scatter plots for bivariate measurement data to investigate patterns of association.
Key skills: Create scatter plots, Identify associationsKnow that straight lines are used to model relationships. Informally fit a straight line to a scatter plot.
Key skills: Fit trend lines, Assess model fitUse the equation of a linear model to solve problems in the context of bivariate measurement data.
Key skills: Interpret slope/intercept, Make predictionsUnderstand that patterns of association can also be seen in bivariate categorical data by displaying frequencies in a two-way table.
Key skills: Construct two-way tables, Calculate relative frequenciesExplain how the definition of the meaning of rational exponents follows from extending the properties of integer exponents to those values.
Key skills: Exponent properties, Rational exponentsRewrite expressions involving radicals and rational exponents using the properties of exponents.
Key skills: Radical conversion, Expression simplificationExplain why the sum or product of two rational numbers is rational; that the sum of a rational and irrational is irrational.
Key skills: Rationality proofs, Number classificationUse units as a way to understand problems and to guide the solution of multi-step problems; choose and interpret units consistently.
Key skills: Unit analysis, Problem solvingDefine appropriate quantities for the purpose of descriptive modeling.
Key skills: Variable definition, Mathematical modelingChoose a level of accuracy appropriate to limitations on measurement when reporting quantities.
Key skills: Precision, Significant figuresInterpret expressions that represent a quantity in terms of its context.
Key skills: Contextual analysis, Expression interpretationInterpret parts of an expression, such as terms, factors, and coefficients.
Key skills: Term identification, Coefficient analysisInterpret complicated expressions by viewing one or more of their parts as a single entity.
Key skills: Grouping, Structural analysisUse the structure of an expression to identify ways to rewrite it.
Key skills: Factoring, Rewriting expressionsChoose and produce an equivalent form of an expression to reveal and explain properties of the quantity represented.
Key skills: Equivalent forms, Property analysisUnderstand that polynomials form a system analogous to the integers, namely, they are closed under addition, subtraction, and multiplication.
Key skills: Polynomial arithmetic, Closure propertiesCreate equations and inequalities in one variable and use them to solve problems.
Key skills: Equation modeling, Solving inequalitiesCreate equations in two or more variables to represent relationships between quantities; graph equations on coordinate axes.
Key skills: Two-variable equations, GraphingRepresent constraints by equations or inequalities, and by systems of equations and/or inequalities.
Key skills: Constraint modeling, Systems of equationsRearrange formulas to highlight a quantity of interest, using the same reasoning as in solving equations.
Key skills: Literal equations, Formula manipulationExplain each step in solving a simple equation as following from the equality of numbers asserted at the previous step.
Key skills: Logical reasoning, Step justificationSolve linear equations and inequalities in one variable, including equations with coefficients represented by letters.
Key skills: Linear solving, Variable isolationSolve quadratic equations in one variable.
Key skills: Quadratic formula, Factoring quadraticsProve that, given a system of two equations in two variables, replacing one equation by the sum of that equation and a multiple of the other produces a system with the same solutions.
Key skills: Elimination method, System proofsSolve systems of linear equations exactly and approximately (e.g., with graphs), focusing on pairs of linear equations in two variables.
Key skills: System solving, Graphical solutionsUnderstand that the graph of an equation in two variables is the set of all its solutions plotted in the coordinate plane.
Key skills: Solution sets, Coordinate graphingExplain why the x-coordinates of the points where the graphs of the equations y = f(x) and y = g(x) intersect are the solutions of the equation f(x) = g(x).
Key skills: Intersection points, Function equalityGraph the solutions to a linear inequality in two variables as a half-plane.
Key skills: Inequality graphing, Shading regionsUnderstand that a function from one set to another set assigns to each element of the domain exactly one element of the range.
Key skills: Function definition, Domain and rangeUse function notation, evaluate functions for inputs in their domains, and interpret statements that use function notation in terms of a context.
Key skills: Function notation, EvaluationFor a function that models a relationship between two quantities, interpret key features of graphs and tables.
Key skills: Intercepts, Increasing/decreasingGraph functions expressed symbolically and show key features of the graph, by hand in simple cases and using technology for more complicated cases.
Key skills: Function graphing, Feature identificationDistinguish between situations that can be modeled with linear functions and with exponential functions.
Key skills: Model comparison, Growth ratesKnow precise definitions of angle, circle, perpendicular line, parallel line, and line segment, based on the undefined notions of point, line, distance along a line, and distance around a circular arc.
Key skills: Geometric definitions, Foundational conceptsRepresent transformations in the plane using, e.g., transparencies and geometry software; describe transformations as functions.
Key skills: Transformations, MappingUse geometric descriptions of rigid motions to transform figures and to predict the effect of a given rigid motion on a given figure.
Key skills: Rigid motion, Congruence criteriaProve theorems about lines and angles.
Key skills: Geometric proof, Angle relationshipsProve theorems about triangles.
Key skills: Triangle proofs, Interior anglesVerify experimentally the properties of dilations given by a center and a scale factor.
Key skills: Dilations, Scale factorsProve theorems about triangles involving similarity.
Key skills: Similarity proof, ProportionalityUnderstand that by similarity, side ratios in right triangles are properties of the angles in the triangle, leading to definitions of trigonometric ratios.
Key skills: Trig ratios, Right trianglesUse trigonometric ratios and the Pythagorean Theorem to solve right triangles in applied problems.
Key skills: Pythagorean theorem, Applied trigonometryUse coordinates to prove simple geometric theorems algebraically.
Key skills: Coordinate geometry, Algebraic proofProve the slope criteria for parallel and perpendicular lines and use them to solve geometric problems.
Key skills: Slope criteria, Parallel/PerpendicularRepresent data with plots on the real number line (dot plots, histograms, and box plots).
Key skills: Data visualization, Statistical plotsUse statistics appropriate to the shape of the data distribution to compare center and spread of two or more different data sets.
Key skills: Mean/Median, Standard deviationDescribe events as subsets of a sample space using characteristics of the outcomes, or as unions, intersections, or complements of other events.
Key skills: Set theory, Sample spacesKnow there is a number i such that i^2 = -1, and every complex number has the form a + bi with a and b real.
Key skills: Imaginary numbers, Complex numbersUse the relation i^2 = -1 and the commutative, associative, and distributive properties to add, subtract, and multiply complex numbers.
Key skills: Complex arithmetic, Algebraic properties(+) Find the conjugate of a complex number; use conjugates to find moduli and quotients of complex numbers.
Key skills: Complex conjugates, Moduli and quotients(+) Represent complex numbers on the complex plane in rectangular and polar form.
Key skills: Complex plane, Polar coordinates(+) Represent addition, subtraction, multiplication, and conjugation of complex numbers geometrically on the complex plane.
Key skills: Geometric representation, Complex operations(+) Calculate the distance between numbers in the complex plane and the midpoint of a segment.
Key skills: Distance formula, Midpoint formulaSolve quadratic equations with real coefficients that have complex solutions.
Key skills: Quadratic equations, Complex solutions(+) Extend polynomial identities to the complex numbers.
Key skills: Polynomial identities, Complex extension(+) Know the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra; show that it is true for quadratic polynomials.
Key skills: Fundamental Theorem, Algebraic proof(+) Recognize vector quantities as having both magnitude and direction.
Key skills: Vector magnitude, Vector direction(+) Find the components of a vector by subtracting the coordinates of an initial point from the coordinates of a terminal point.
Key skills: Vector components, Coordinate subtraction(+) Solve problems involving velocity and other quantities that can be represented by vectors.
Key skills: Velocity vectors, Vector modeling(+) Add and subtract vectors.
Key skills: Vector addition, Vector subtraction(+) Multiply a vector by a scalar.
Key skills: Scalar multiplication, Vector scaling(+) Use matrices to represent and manipulate data, e.g., to represent payoffs or incidence relationships in a network.
Key skills: Matrix representation, Data manipulation(+) Multiply matrices by scalars to produce new matrices.
Key skills: Matrix scaling, Scalar multiplication(+) Add, subtract, and multiply matrices of appropriate dimensions.
Key skills: Matrix arithmetic, Matrix multiplication(+) Understand that, unlike multiplication of numbers, matrix multiplication for square matrices is not a commutative operation.
Key skills: Matrix properties, Commutativity(+) Understand that the zero and identity matrices play a role in matrix addition and multiplication similar to the role of 0 and 1 in the real numbers.
Key skills: Identity matrix, Zero matrix(+) Multiply a vector by a matrix of suitable dimensions to produce another vector.
Key skills: Vector-matrix multiplication, Linear transformations(+) Work with 2 x 2 matrices as transformations of the plane, and interpret the absolute value of the determinant in terms of area.
Key skills: Determinants, Area transformationsDerive the formula for the sum of a finite geometric series (when the common ratio is not 1), and use the formula to solve problems.
Key skills: Geometric series, Summation formulasKnow and apply the Remainder Theorem: For a polynomial p(x) and a number a, the remainder on division by x - a is p(a).
Key skills: Remainder Theorem, Polynomial divisionIdentify zeros of polynomials when suitable factorizations are available, and use the zeros to construct a rough graph.
Key skills: Polynomial zeros, Graphing polynomialsProve polynomial identities and use them to describe numerical relationships.
Key skills: Polynomial identities, Algebraic proof(+) Know and apply the Binomial Theorem for the expansion of (x + y)^n in powers of x and y for a positive integer n.
Key skills: Binomial Theorem, Polynomial expansionRewrite simple rational expressions in different forms.
Key skills: Rational expressions, Long division(+) Understand that rational expressions form a system analogous to the rational numbers, closed under addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Key skills: Rational expression operations, Closure propertySolve simple rational and radical equations in one variable, and give examples showing how extraneous solutions may arise.
Key skills: Rational equations, Extraneous solutionsSolve a simple system consisting of a linear equation and a quadratic equation in two variables algebraically and graphically.
Key skills: Non-linear systems, Graphical solutions(+) Represent a system of linear equations as a single matrix equation in a vector variable.
Key skills: Matrix equations, Vector variables(+) Find the inverse of a matrix if it exists and use it to solve systems of linear equations.
Key skills: Matrix inverse, System solvingRecognize that sequences are functions, sometimes defined recursively, whose domain is a subset of the integers.
Key skills: Sequences, Recursive functionsRelate the domain of a function to its graph and, where applicable, to the quantitative relationship it describes.
Key skills: Domain analysis, Contextual domainCalculate and interpret the average rate of change of a function over a specified interval.
Key skills: Rate of change, Interval analysisWrite a function defined by an expression in different but equivalent forms to reveal and explain different properties of the function.
Key skills: Equivalent forms, Function propertiesCompare properties of two functions each represented in a different way (algebraically, graphically, numerically in tables, or by verbal descriptions).
Key skills: Function comparison, Multiple representationsWrite a function that describes a relationship between two quantities.
Key skills: Function construction, ModelingWrite arithmetic and geometric sequences both recursively and with an explicit formula, use them to model situations, and translate between the two forms.
Key skills: Sequences, Explicit/recursive formulasIdentify the effect on the graph of replacing f(x) by f(x) + k, k f(x), f(kx), and f(x + k) for specific values of k.
Key skills: Transformations, Graph shiftsFind inverse functions.
Key skills: Inverse functions, Domain restriction(+) Understand the inverse relationship between exponents and logarithms and use this relationship to solve problems involving logarithms and exponents.
Key skills: Logarithms, Exponential inversesConstruct linear and exponential functions, including arithmetic and geometric sequences, given a graph, a description of a relationship, or two input-output pairs.
Key skills: Function construction, ModelingObserve using graphs and tables that a quantity increasing exponentially eventually exceeds a quantity increasing linearly, quadratically, or (more generally) as a polynomial function.
Key skills: Growth comparison, Asymptotic behaviorFor exponential models, express as a logarithm the solution to ab^(ct) = d where a, c, and d are numbers and the base b is 2, 10, or e; evaluate the logarithm using technology.
Key skills: Logarithmic solutions, Exponential equationsInterpret the parameters in a linear or exponential function in terms of a context.
Key skills: Parameter interpretation, Contextual modelingUnderstand radian measure of an angle as the length of the arc on the unit circle subtended by the angle.
Key skills: Radian measure, Unit circleExplain how the unit circle in the coordinate plane enables the extension of trigonometric functions to all real numbers.
Key skills: Unit circle, Trig extension(+) Use special triangles to determine geometrically the values of sine, cosine, tangent for pi/3, pi/4 and pi/6.
Key skills: Special triangles, Exact trig values(+) Use the unit circle to explain symmetry (odd and even) and periodicity of trigonometric functions.
Key skills: Symmetry, PeriodicityChoose trigonometric functions to model periodic phenomena with specified amplitude, frequency, and midline.
Key skills: Periodic modeling, Trig parameters(+) Understand that restricting a trigonometric function to a domain on which it is always increasing or always decreasing allows its inverse to be constructed.
Key skills: Inverse trig, Domain restriction(+) Use inverse functions to solve trigonometric equations that arise in modeling contexts; evaluate the solutions using technology, and interpret them in terms of the context.
Key skills: Trig equations, Inverse evaluationProve the Pythagorean identity sin^2(theta) + cos^2(theta) = 1 and use it to find sin(theta), cos(theta), or tan(theta) given sin(theta), cos(theta), or tan(theta) and the quadrant of the angle.
Key skills: Pythagorean identity, Trig ratios(+) Prove the addition and subtraction formulas for sine, cosine, and tangent and use them to solve problems.
Key skills: Sum/difference formulas, Trig identitiesGiven a rectangle, parallelogram, trapezoid, or regular polygon, describe the rotations and reflections that carry it onto itself.
Key skills: Symmetry, Rotations/reflectionsDevelop definitions of rotations, reflections, and translations in terms of angles, circles, perpendicular lines, parallel lines, and line segments.
Key skills: Rigid motions, DefinitionsGiven a geometric figure and a rotation, reflection, or translation, draw the transformed figure.
Key skills: Drawing transformations, Sequence of motionsUse the definition of congruence in terms of rigid motions to show that two triangles are congruent if and only if corresponding pairs of sides and angles are congruent.
Key skills: Triangle congruence, CPCTCExplain how the criteria for triangle congruence (ASA, SAS, and SSS) follow from the definition of congruence in terms of rigid motions.
Key skills: Congruence criteria, Logical explanationProve theorems about parallelograms.
Key skills: Parallelogram proof, Quadrilateral propertiesMake formal geometric constructions with a variety of tools and methods.
Key skills: Geometric construction, Compass and straightedgeConstruct an equilateral triangle, a square, and a regular hexagon inscribed in a circle.
Key skills: Inscribed figures, ConstructionGiven two figures, use the definition of similarity in terms of similarity transformations to decide if they are similar.
Key skills: Similarity, TransformationsUse the properties of similarity transformations to establish the AA criterion for two triangles to be similar.
Key skills: AA criterion, Similarity proofUse congruence and similarity criteria for triangles to solve problems and to prove relationships in geometric figures.
Key skills: Problem solving, Congruence/SimilarityExplain and use the relationship between the sine and cosine of complementary angles.
Key skills: Complementary angles, Sine/Cosine relation(+) Derive the formula A = 1/2 ab sin(C) for the area of a triangle by drawing an auxiliary line from a vertex perpendicular to the opposite side.
Key skills: Triangle area, Trig derivation(+) Prove the Laws of Sines and Cosines and use them to solve problems.
Key skills: Law of Sines, Law of Cosines(+) Understand and apply the Law of Sines and the Law of Cosines to find unknown measurements in right and non-right triangles.
Key skills: Non-right triangles, Measurement solvingProve that all circles are similar.
Key skills: Circle similarity, Geometric proofIdentify and describe relationships among inscribed angles, radii, and chords.
Key skills: Circle properties, Inscribed anglesConstruct the inscribed and circumscribed circles of a triangle, and prove properties of angles for a quadrilateral inscribed in a circle.
Key skills: Inscribed/Circumscribed, Quadrilateral properties(+) Construct a tangent line from a point outside a given circle to the circle.
Key skills: Tangent construction, Circle geometryDerive using similarity the fact that the length of the arc intercepted by an angle is proportional to the radius, and define the radian measure of the angle.
Key skills: Arc length, Radian measureDerive the equation of a circle of given center and radius using the Pythagorean Theorem; complete the square to find the center and radius.
Key skills: Circle equation, Completing the squareDerive the equation of a parabola given a focus and directrix.
Key skills: Parabola equation, Focus and directrix(+) Derive the equations of ellipses and hyperbolas given the foci, using the fact that the sum or difference of distances from the foci is constant.
Key skills: Ellipses, HyperbolasFind the point on a directed line segment between two given points that partitions the segment in a given ratio.
Key skills: Segment partitioning, Ratio divisionUse coordinates to compute perimeters of polygons and areas of triangles and rectangles, e.g., using the distance formula.
Key skills: Perimeter/Area, Distance formulaGive an informal argument for the formulas for the circumference of a circle, area of a circle, volume of a cylinder, pyramid, and cone.
Key skills: Volume formulas, Informal proof(+) Give an informal argument using Cavalieri's principle for the formulas for the volume of a sphere and other solid figures.
Key skills: Cavalieri's principle, Sphere volumeUse volume formulas for cylinders, pyramids, cones, and spheres to solve problems.
Key skills: Volume calculation, Problem solvingIdentify the shapes of two-dimensional cross-sections of three-dimensional objects, and identify three-dimensional objects generated by rotations of two-dimensional objects.
Key skills: Cross-sections, Solids of revolutionUse geometric shapes, their measures, and their properties to describe objects.
Key skills: Geometric modeling, Object descriptionApply concepts of density based on area and volume in modeling situations.
Key skills: Density modeling, Area/Volume applicationApply geometric methods to solve design problems.
Key skills: Design problems, Geometric optimizationInterpret differences in shape, center, and spread in the context of the data sets, accounting for possible effects of extreme data points (outliers).
Key skills: Outlier analysis, Contextual interpretationUse the mean and standard deviation of a data set to fit it to a normal distribution and to estimate population percentages.
Key skills: Normal distribution, Standard deviationSummarize categorical data for two categories in two-way frequency tables.
Key skills: Two-way tables, Frequency analysisRepresent data on two quantitative variables on a scatter plot, and describe how the variables are related.
Key skills: Scatter plots, Variable relationshipsInterpret the slope (rate of change) and the intercept (constant term) of a linear model in the context of the data.
Key skills: Linear modeling, Parameter interpretationCompute (using technology) and interpret the correlation coefficient of a linear fit.
Key skills: Correlation coefficient, Linear fitDistinguish between correlation and causation.
Key skills: Correlation, CausationUnderstand statistics as a process for making inferences about population parameters based on a random sample from that population.
Key skills: Statistical inference, Population parametersDecide if a specified model is consistent with results from a given data-generating process, e.g., using simulation.
Key skills: Model consistency, SimulationRecognize the purposes of and differences among sample surveys, experiments, and observational studies; explain how randomization relates to each.
Key skills: Study design, RandomizationUse data from a sample survey to estimate a population mean or proportion; develop a margin of error through the use of simulation models for random sampling.
Key skills: Margin of error, Population estimationUse data from a randomized experiment to compare two treatments; use simulations to decide if differences between parameters are significant.
Key skills: Treatment comparison, Statistical significanceEvaluate reports based on data.
Key skills: Data evaluation, Report analysisUnderstand that two events A and B are independent if the probability of A and B occurring together is the product of their probabilities.
Key skills: Independence, Joint probabilityUnderstand the conditional probability of A given B as P(A and B)/P(B), and interpret independence of A and B as saying that the conditional probability of A given B is the same as the probability of A.
Key skills: Conditional probability, IndependenceConstruct and interpret two-way frequency tables of data when two categories are associated with each object being classified.
Key skills: Two-way tables, Conditional probabilityRecognize and explain the concepts of conditional probability and independence in everyday language and everyday situations.
Key skills: Contextual probability, IndependenceFind the conditional probability of A given B as the fraction of B's outcomes that also belong to A, and interpret the answer in terms of the model.
Key skills: Conditional calculation, Model interpretationApply the Addition Rule, P(A or B) = P(A) + P(B) - P(A and B), and interpret the answer in terms of the model.
Key skills: Addition Rule, Probability modeling(+) Apply the general Multiplication Rule in a uniform probability model, P(A and B) = P(A)P(B|A) = P(B)P(A|B), and interpret the answer in terms of the model.
Key skills: Multiplication Rule, Joint probability(+) Use permutations and combinations to compute probabilities of compound events and solve problems.
Key skills: Permutations, Combinations(+) Define a random variable for a quantity of interest by assigning a numerical value to each event in a sample space; graph the corresponding probability distribution.
Key skills: Random variables, Probability distributions(+) Calculate the expected value of a random variable; interpret it as the mean of the probability distribution.
Key skills: Expected value, Mean of distribution(+) Develop a probability distribution for a random variable defined for a sample space in which theoretical probabilities can be calculated; find the expected value.
Key skills: Theoretical probability, Expected value(+) Develop a probability distribution for a random variable defined for a sample space in which probabilities are assigned empirically; find the expected value.
Key skills: Empirical probability, Expected value(+) Weigh the possible outcomes of a decision by assigning probabilities to payoff values and finding expected values.
Key skills: Decision analysis, Expected payoff(+) Use probabilities to make fair decisions (e.g., drawing by lots, using a random number generator).
Key skills: Fair decisions, Random selection(+) Analyze decisions and strategies using probability concepts (e.g., product testing, medical testing, pulling a hockey goalie at the end of a game).
Key skills: Strategy analysis, Probability modelingPlan and conduct an investigation to compare the effects of different strengths or different directions of pushes and pulls on the motion of an object.
Key skills: Planning investigations, Comparing effectsAnalyze data to determine if a design solution works as intended to change the speed or direction of an object with a push or a pull.
Key skills: Analyzing data, Evaluating designsMake observations to determine the effect of sunlight on Earth’s surface.
Key skills: Making observations, Identifying effectsUse tools and materials to design and build a structure that will reduce the warming effect of sunlight on an area.
Key skills: Designing structures, Reducing heatUse observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive.
Key skills: Observing patterns, Identifying needsUse and share observations of local weather conditions to describe patterns over time.
Key skills: Recording weather, Identifying patternsConstruct an argument supported by evidence for how plants and animals (including humans) can change the environment to meet their needs.
Key skills: Constructing arguments, Environmental impactUse a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants or animals and the places they live.
Key skills: Modeling relationships, Habitat needsAsk questions to obtain information about the purpose of weather forecasting to prepare for, and respond to, severe weather.
Key skills: Asking questions, Weather safetyCommunicate solutions that will reduce the impact of humans on the land, water, air, and/or other living things in the local environment.
Key skills: Communicating solutions, Environmental protectionAsk questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem.
Key skills: Defining problems, Gathering informationDevelop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how the shape of an object helps it function as needed.
Key skills: Developing models, Structural functionAnalyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same problem to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each performs.
Key skills: Testing objects, Comparing performancePlan and conduct investigations to provide evidence that vibrating materials can make sound and that sound can make materials vibrate.
Key skills: investigating sound, vibration analysisMake observations to construct an evidence-based account that objects in darkness can be seen only when illuminated.
Key skills: observing light, illumination evidencePlan and conduct investigations to determine the effect of placing objects made with different materials in the path of a beam of light.
Key skills: testing materials, light beam pathUse tools and materials to design and build a device that uses light or sound to solve the problem of communicating over a distance.
Key skills: designing devices, communication solutionsUse materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive.
Key skills: biomimicry design, external structuresRead texts and use media to determine patterns in behavior of parents and offspring that help offspring survive.
Key skills: behavior patterns, offspring survivalMake observations to construct an evidence-based account that young plants and animals are like, but not exactly like, their parents.
Key skills: observing traits, inheritance patternsUse observations of the sun, moon, and stars to describe patterns that can be predicted.
Key skills: predicting patterns, celestial observationsMake observations at different times of year to relate the amount of daylight to the time of year.
Key skills: seasonal daylight, data analysisAsk questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem.
Key skills: defining problems, gathering informationDevelop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how the shape of an object helps it function as needed.
Key skills: modeling solutions, sketching designsAnalyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same problem to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each performs.
Key skills: analyzing data, comparing designsPlan and conduct an investigation to describe and classify different kinds of materials by their observable properties.
Key skills: Classifying materials, Observable propertiesAnalyze data obtained from testing different materials to determine which materials have the properties that are best suited for an intended purpose.
Key skills: Analyzing data, Material propertiesMake observations to construct an evidence-based account of how an object made of a small set of pieces can be disassembled and made into a new object.
Key skills: Observing changes, Reassembling objectsConstruct an argument with evidence that some changes caused by heating or cooling can be reversed and some cannot.
Key skills: Constructing arguments, Reversible/irreversible changesPlan and conduct an investigation to determine if plants need sunlight and water to grow.
Key skills: Plant growth, Experimental designDevelop a simple model that mimics the function of an animal in dispersing seeds or pollinating plants.
Key skills: Modeling, Seed dispersal/pollinationMake observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
Key skills: Comparing habitats, BiodiversityUse information from several sources to provide evidence that Earth events can occur quickly or slowly.
Key skills: Earth events, Evidence gatheringCompare multiple solutions designed to slow or prevent wind or water from changing the shape of the land.
Key skills: Erosion control, Comparing solutionsDevelop a model to represent the shapes and kinds of land and bodies of water in an area.
Key skills: Mapping landforms, ModelingObtain information to identify where water is found on Earth and that it can be solid or liquid.
Key skills: Water sources, States of matterAsk questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through a new or improved object.
Key skills: Problem definition, Information gatheringDevelop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how the shape of an object helps it function as needed to solve a given problem.
Key skills: Sketching/Modeling, Functional designAnalyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same problem to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each performs.
Key skills: Data analysis, Comparing designsPlan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence of the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces on the motion of an object.
Key skills: Experimental design, Data collectionMake observations and/or measurements of an object’s motion to provide evidence that a pattern can be used to predict future motion.
Key skills: Pattern recognition, PredictionAsk questions to determine cause and effect relationships of electric or magnetic interactions between two objects not in contact with each other.
Key skills: Questioning, Cause and effectDefine a simple design problem that can be solved by applying scientific ideas about magnets.
Key skills: Problem definition, Applied scienceDevelop models to describe that organisms have unique and diverse life cycles but all have in common birth, growth, reproduction, and death.
Key skills: Modeling, Comparative analysisConstruct an argument that some animals form groups that help members survive.
Key skills: Argumentation, Evidence evaluationAnalyze and interpret data to provide evidence that plants and animals have traits inherited from parents and that variation exists in similar organisms.
Key skills: Data analysis, Identifying variationUse evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment.
Key skills: Evidence-based explanation, Environmental analysisAnalyze and interpret data from fossils to provide evidence of the organisms and the environments in which they lived long ago.
Key skills: Fossil analysis, Environmental reconstructionUse evidence to construct an explanation for how variations in characteristics among individuals may provide advantages in surviving and reproducing.
Key skills: Explanation construction, Survival analysisConstruct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive.
Key skills: Scientific argument, Habitat assessmentMake a claim about the merit of a solution to a problem caused when the environment changes and the types of plants and animals may change.
Key skills: Claim construction, Evaluating solutionsRepresent data in tables and graphical displays to describe typical weather conditions expected during a particular season.
Key skills: Data representation, Seasonal analysisObtain and combine information to describe climates in different regions of the world.
Key skills: Information synthesis, Climate descriptionMake a claim about the merit of a design solution that reduces the impacts of a weather-related hazard.
Key skills: Hazard mitigation, Solution evaluationDefine a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
Key skills: Defining constraints, Problem identificationGenerate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints.
Key skills: Solution generation, Comparative testingPlan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects that can be improved.
Key skills: Fair testing, Iterative improvementUse evidence to construct an explanation relating the speed of an object to the energy of that object.
Key skills: Constructing explanations, Relating speed and energyMake observations to provide evidence that energy can be transferred from place to place by sound, light, heat, and electric currents.
Key skills: Making observations, Energy transferAsk questions and predict outcomes about the changes in energy that occur when objects collide.
Key skills: Asking questions, Predicting outcomesApply scientific ideas to design, test, and refine a device that converts energy from one form to another.
Key skills: Designing devices, Energy conversionDevelop a model of waves to describe patterns in terms of amplitude and wavelength and that waves can cause objects to move.
Key skills: Developing models, Wave patternsDevelop a model to describe that light reflecting from objects and entering the eye allows objects to be seen.
Key skills: Developing models, Light reflectionGenerate and compare multiple solutions that use patterns to transfer information.
Key skills: Generating solutions, Information transferConstruct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
Key skills: Constructing arguments, Structure and functionUse a model to describe that animals receive different types of information through their senses, process it in their brain, and respond in different ways.
Key skills: Developing models, Information processingIdentify evidence from patterns in rock formations and fossils in rock layers to support an explanation for changes in a landscape over time.
Key skills: Identifying evidence, Landscape changesMake observations and/or measurements to provide evidence of the effects of weathering or the rate of erosion by water, ice, wind, or vegetation.
Key skills: Making observations, Weathering and erosionAnalyze and interpret data from maps to describe patterns of Earth’s features.
Key skills: Analyzing data, Mapping Earth featuresObtain and combine information to describe that energy and fuels are derived from natural resources and their uses affect the environment.
Key skills: Obtaining information, Natural resourcesGenerate and compare multiple solutions to reduce the impacts of natural Earth processes on humans.
Key skills: Generating solutions, Natural hazard impactDefine a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
Key skills: Defining problems, Criteria and constraintsGenerate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
Key skills: Comparing solutions, Meeting criteriaPlan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model that can be improved.
Key skills: Testing prototypes, Identifying improvementsDevelop a model to describe that matter is made of particles too small to be seen.
Key skills: Developing models, Particle theoryMeasure and graph quantities to provide evidence that regardless of the type of change that occurs when heating, cooling, or mixing substances, the total weight of matter is conserved.
Key skills: Data measurement, Conservation of massMake observations and measurements to identify materials based on their properties.
Key skills: Scientific observation, Material identificationConduct an investigation to determine whether the mixing of two or more substances results in new substances.
Key skills: Experimental design, Chemical reactionsSupport an argument that the gravitational force exerted by Earth on objects is directed down.
Key skills: Argumentation, Gravitational forceUse models to describe that energy in animals' food (used for body repair, growth, motion, and to maintain body warmth) was once energy from the sun.
Key skills: Modeling energy flow, Photosynthesis conceptsSupport an argument that plants get the materials they need for growth chiefly from air and water.
Key skills: Evidence-based argument, Plant physiologyDevelop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment.
Key skills: System modeling, Matter cyclingSupport an argument that the apparent brightness of the sun and stars is due to their relative distances from Earth.
Key skills: Argumentation, Stellar propertiesRepresent data in graphical displays to reveal patterns of daily changes in length and direction of shadows, day and night, and the seasonal appearance of some stars.
Key skills: Data visualization, Pattern recognitionDevelop a model using an example to describe ways the geosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and/or atmosphere interact.
Key skills: Systems thinking, Earth sphere interactionsDescribe and graph the amounts and percentages of water and fresh water in various reservoirs to provide evidence about the distribution of water on Earth.
Key skills: Graphing data, Resource distributionObtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
Key skills: Information synthesis, Environmental stewardshipDefine a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
Key skills: Problem definition, Identifying constraintsGenerate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
Key skills: Solution generation, Comparative analysisPlan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.
Key skills: Fair testing, Iterative designConduct an investigation to provide evidence that living things are made of cells; either one cell or many different numbers and types of cells.
Key skills: Conducting investigations, Cell theoryDevelop and use a model to describe the function of a cell as a whole and ways parts of cells contribute to the function.
Key skills: Developing models, Cell organellesUse argument supported by evidence for how the body is a system of multiple interacting subsystems composed of groups of cells.
Key skills: Scientific argumentation, Body systemsGather and synthesize information that sensory receptors respond to stimuli by sending messages to the brain for immediate behavior or storage as memories.
Key skills: Synthesizing information, Sensory processingUse argument based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how characteristic animal behaviors and specialized plant structures affect reproduction.
Key skills: Scientific reasoning, Reproductive successConstruct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how environmental and genetic factors influence the growth of organisms.
Key skills: Constructing explanations, Growth factorsDevelop and use a model to describe why asexual reproduction results in offspring with identical genetic information and sexual reproduction results in genetic variation.
Key skills: Modeling, Genetic variationDevelop a model to describe the cycling of water through Earth's systems driven by energy from the sun and the force of gravity.
Key skills: Modeling, Water cycleCollect data to provide evidence for how the motions and complex interactions of air masses result in changes in weather conditions.
Key skills: Data collection, Weather patternsDevelop and use a model to describe how unequal heating and rotation of the Earth cause patterns of atmospheric and oceanic circulation that determine regional climates.
Key skills: Modeling, Global circulationApply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment.
Key skills: Designing solutions, Environmental impactAsk questions to clarify evidence of the factors that have caused the rise in global temperatures over the past century.
Key skills: Asking questions, Climate changeApply scientific principles to design, construct, and test a device that either minimizes or maximizes thermal energy transfer.
Key skills: Engineering design, Thermal energyPlan an investigation to determine the relationships among the energy transferred, the type of matter, the mass, and the change in the average kinetic energy of the particles.
Key skills: Planning investigations, Kinetic energyConstruct, use, and present arguments to support the claim that when the kinetic energy of an object changes, energy is transferred to or from the object.
Key skills: Scientific argumentation, Energy transferDefine the criteria and constraints of a design problem with sufficient precision to ensure a successful solution, taking into account relevant scientific principles and potential impacts.
Key skills: Defining problems, Constraint analysisEvaluate competing design solutions using a systematic process to determine how well they meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
Key skills: Evaluating solutions, Systematic processAnalyze data from tests to determine similarities and differences among several design solutions to identify the best characteristics of each that can be combined.
Key skills: Data analysis, Solution optimizationDevelop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification of a proposed object, tool, or process such that an optimal design can be achieved.
Key skills: Modeling, Iterative testingConstruct a scientific explanation based on evidence for the role of photosynthesis in the cycling of matter and flow of energy into and out of organisms.
Key skills: Construct explanations, Analyze energy flowDevelop a model to describe how food is rearranged through chemical reactions forming new molecules that support growth and/or release energy.
Key skills: Develop models, Describe chemical reactionsAnalyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
Key skills: Analyze data, Predict population changesConstruct an explanation that predicts patterns of interactions among organisms across multiple ecosystems.
Key skills: Predict patterns, Explain interactionsDevelop a model to describe the cycling of matter and flow of energy among living and nonliving parts of an ecosystem.
Key skills: Develop models, Trace matter cyclingConstruct an argument supported by empirical evidence that changes to physical or biological components of an ecosystem affect populations.
Key skills: Construct arguments, Evaluate ecosystem changesEvaluate competing design solutions for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Key skills: Evaluate solutions, Assess biodiversityDevelop models to describe the atomic composition of simple molecules and extended structures.
Key skills: Develop models, Describe atomic structureAnalyze and interpret data on the properties of substances before and after the substances interact to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred.
Key skills: Analyze data, Identify chemical reactionsGather and make sense of information to describe that synthetic materials come from natural resources and impact society.
Key skills: Gather information, Analyze societal impactDevelop a model that predicts and describes changes in particle motion, temperature, and state of a pure substance when thermal energy is added or removed.
Key skills: Develop models, Predict particle motionDevelop and use a model to describe how the total number of atoms does not change in a chemical reaction and thus mass is conserved.
Key skills: Develop models, Explain conservation of massUndertake a design project to construct, test, and modify a device that either releases or absorbs thermal energy by chemical processes.
Key skills: Design solutions, Test thermal devicesDevelop a model to describe the cycling of Earth's materials and the flow of energy that drives this process.
Key skills: Develop models, Describe rock cycleConstruct an explanation based on evidence for how geoscience processes have changed Earth's surface at varying time and spatial scales.
Key skills: Construct explanations, Analyze geoscience processesAnalyze and interpret data on the distribution of fossils and rocks, continental shapes, and seafloor structures to provide evidence of the past plate motions.
Key skills: Analyze data, Provide plate tectonic evidenceConstruct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how the uneven distributions of Earth's mineral, energy, and groundwater resources are the result of past processes.
Key skills: Construct explanations, Analyze resource distributionAnalyze and interpret data on natural hazards to forecast future catastrophic events and inform the development of technologies to mitigate their effects.
Key skills: Analyze data, Forecast natural hazardsDefine the criteria and constraints of a design problem with sufficient precision to ensure a successful solution.
Key skills: Define problems, Identify constraintsEvaluate competing design solutions using a systematic process to determine how well they meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
Key skills: Evaluate solutions, Compare designsAnalyze data from tests to determine similarities and differences among several design solutions to identify the best characteristics of each.
Key skills: Analyze test data, Identify design featuresDevelop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification of a proposed object, tool, or process.
Key skills: Develop models, Perform iterative testingCite specific textual evidence to support analysis of science and technical texts.
Key skills: Cite evidence, Analyze textsDetermine the central ideas or conclusions of a text; provide an accurate summary of the text distinct from prior knowledge or opinions.
Key skills: Determine central ideas, Summarize textsFollow precisely a multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks.
Key skills: Follow procedures, Perform tasksDetermine the meaning of symbols, key terms, and other domain-specific words and phrases as they are used in a scientific context.
Key skills: Define terminology, Interpret symbolsIntegrate quantitative or technical information expressed in words in a text with a version of that information expressed visually.
Key skills: Integrate information, Interpret visual dataCompare and contrast the information gained from experiments, simulations, video, or multimedia sources with that gained from reading a text.
Key skills: Compare sources, Synthesize informationWrite arguments focused on discipline-specific content.
Key skills: Write arguments, Support claimsWrite informative/explanatory texts, including the narration of scientific procedures/ experiments, or technical processes.
Key skills: Write explanations, Describe proceduresConduct short research projects to answer a question, drawing on several sources and generating additional related, focused questions.
Key skills: Conduct research, Synthesize sourcesApply Newton’s Third Law to design a solution to a problem involving the motion of two colliding objects.
Key skills: Newton's Third Law, Collision DesignPlan an investigation to provide evidence that the change in an object’s motion depends on the sum of the forces on the object and the mass of the object.
Key skills: Investigation Planning, Forces and MotionAsk questions about data to determine the factors that affect the strength of electric and magnetic forces.
Key skills: Questioning, Electric/Magnetic ForcesConstruct and present arguments using evidence to support the claim that gravitational interactions are attractive and depend on the masses of interacting objects.
Key skills: Argumentation, GravityConduct an investigation and evaluate the experimental design to provide evidence that fields exist between objects exerting forces on each other.
Key skills: Investigation, Field ForcesConstruct and interpret graphical displays of data to describe the relationships of kinetic energy to the mass of an object and to the speed of an object.
Key skills: Data Analysis, Kinetic EnergyDevelop a model to describe that when the arrangement of objects interacting at a distance changes, different amounts of potential energy are stored in the system.
Key skills: Modeling, Potential EnergyApply scientific principles to design, construct, and test a device that either minimizes or maximizes thermal energy transfer.
Key skills: Engineering Design, Thermal TransferPlan an investigation to determine the relationships among the energy transferred, the type of matter, the mass, and the change in the average kinetic energy.
Key skills: Investigation, Thermal EnergyConstruct, use, and present arguments to support the claim that when the kinetic energy of an object changes, energy is transferred to or from the object.
Key skills: Argumentation, Energy TransferUse mathematical representations to describe a simple model for waves that includes how the amplitude of a wave is related to the energy in a wave.
Key skills: Mathematical Modeling, Wave PropertiesDevelop and use a model to describe that waves are reflected, absorbed, or transmitted through various materials.
Key skills: Modeling, Wave InteractionIntegrate qualitative scientific and technical information to support the claim that digitized signals are a more reliable way to encode and transmit information.
Key skills: Information Integration, Digital SignalsConduct an investigation to provide evidence that living things are made of cells; either one cell or many different numbers and types of cells.
Key skills: Investigation, Cell TheoryDevelop and use a model to describe the function of a cell as a whole and ways parts of cells contribute to the function.
Key skills: Modeling, Cell FunctionUse argument supported by evidence for how the body is a system of interacting subsystems composed of groups of cells.
Key skills: Argumentation, Body SystemsUse argument based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how characteristic animal behaviors and plant structures affect reproduction.
Key skills: Argumentation, ReproductionConstruct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how environmental and genetic factors influence the growth of organisms.
Key skills: Explanation, Growth FactorsGather and synthesize information that sensory receptors respond to stimuli by sending messages to the brain for immediate behavior or storage as memories.
Key skills: Information Synthesis, Sensory ResponseDevelop and use a model to describe why structural changes to genes (mutations) located on chromosomes may affect proteins and result in harmful, beneficial, or neutral effects.
Key skills: Modeling, Genetic MutationDevelop and use a model to describe why asexual reproduction results in offspring with identical genetic information and sexual reproduction results in genetic variation.
Key skills: Modeling, Genetic VariationAnalyze and interpret data for patterns in the fossil record that document the existence, diversity, extinction, and change of life forms throughout history.
Key skills: Data Analysis, Fossil RecordApply scientific ideas to construct an explanation for the anatomical similarities and differences among modern organisms and between modern and fossil organisms.
Key skills: Explanation, Evolutionary RelationshipsAnalyze displays of pictorial data to compare patterns of similarities in the embryological development across multiple species to identify relationships.
Key skills: Data Analysis, EmbryologyConstruct an explanation based on evidence that describes how genetic variations of traits in a population increase some individuals’ probability of surviving and reproducing.
Key skills: Explanation, Natural SelectionGather and synthesize information about the technologies that have changed the way humans influence the inheritance of desired traits in organisms.
Key skills: Information Synthesis, Artificial SelectionUse mathematical representations to support explanations of how natural selection may lead to increases and decreases of specific traits in populations over time.
Key skills: Mathematical Modeling, Population TraitsDevelop and use a model of the Earth-sun-moon system to describe the cyclic patterns of lunar phases, eclipses of the sun and moon, and seasons.
Key skills: Modeling, Earth-Sun-MoonDevelop and use a model to describe the role of gravity in the motions within galaxies and the solar system.
Key skills: Modeling, Gravity in SpaceAnalyze and interpret data to determine scale properties of objects in the solar system.
Key skills: Data Analysis, Solar System ScaleConstruct a scientific explanation based on evidence from rock strata for how the geologic time scale is used to organize Earth's 4.6-billion-year-old history.
Key skills: Explanation, Geologic TimeDevelop a model to describe the cycling of water through Earth's systems driven by energy from the sun and the force of gravity.
Key skills: Modeling, Water CycleCollect data to provide evidence for how the motions and complex interactions of air masses result in changes in weather conditions.
Key skills: Data Collection, Weather PatternsDevelop and use a model to describe how unequal heating and rotation of the Earth cause patterns of atmospheric and oceanic circulation.
Key skills: Modeling, Climate PatternsApply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment.
Key skills: Engineering Design, Human ImpactConstruct an argument supported by evidence for how increases in human population and per-capita consumption of natural resources impact Earth's systems.
Key skills: Argumentation, Population ImpactAsk questions to clarify evidence of the factors that have caused the rise in global temperatures over the past century.
Key skills: Questioning, Global WarmingUse the periodic table as a model to predict the relative properties of elements based on the patterns of electrons in the outermost energy level of atoms.
Key skills: Predicting properties, Modeling atomic structureConstruct and revise an explanation for the outcome of a simple chemical reaction based on the outermost electron states of atoms and periodic trends.
Key skills: Explaining reactions, Analyzing periodic trendsPlan and conduct an investigation to gather evidence to compare the structure of substances at the bulk scale to infer the strength of electrical forces between particles.
Key skills: Experimental design, Inferring intermolecular forcesDevelop a model to illustrate that the release or absorption of energy from a chemical reaction system depends upon the changes in total bond energy.
Key skills: Modeling energy transfer, Analyzing bond energyApply scientific principles and evidence to provide an explanation about the effects of changing temperature or concentration on the rate of a reaction.
Key skills: Explaining reaction rates, Applying scientific principlesRefine the design of a chemical system by specifying a change in conditions that would produce increased amounts of products at equilibrium.
Key skills: Optimizing chemical systems, Applying equilibrium conceptsUse mathematical representations to support the claim that atoms, and therefore mass, are conserved during a chemical reaction.
Key skills: Mathematical modeling, Verifying conservation of massDevelop models to illustrate the changes in the nucleus of the atom and the energy released during fission, fusion, and radioactive decay.
Key skills: Modeling nuclear processes, Explaining energy releaseAnalyze data to support the claim that Newton’s second law of motion describes the relationship among net force, mass, and acceleration.
Key skills: Data analysis, Applying Newton's lawsUse mathematical representations to support the claim that the total momentum of a system of objects is conserved when there is no net force.
Key skills: Calculating momentum, Applying conservation lawsApply scientific and engineering ideas to design, evaluate, and refine a device that minimizes the force on a macroscopic object during a collision.
Key skills: Engineering design, Evaluating collision safetyUse mathematical representations of Newton’s Law of Gravitation and Coulomb’s Law to predict gravitational and electrostatic forces.
Key skills: Predicting field forces, Mathematical modelingPlan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that an electric current can produce a magnetic field and vice versa.
Key skills: Experimental design, Analyzing electromagnetismCommunicate scientific and technical information about why the molecular-level structure is important in the functioning of designed materials.
Key skills: Technical communication, Analyzing material propertiesCreate a computational model to calculate the change in the energy of one component in a system when energy flows are known.
Key skills: Computational modeling, Calculating energy changesDevelop and use a model to illustrate that energy at the macroscopic scale is a combination of particle motion and relative position.
Key skills: Modeling energy forms, Relating scalesDesign, build, and refine a device that works within given constraints to convert one form of energy into another form of energy.
Key skills: Engineering design, Energy conversionPlan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that thermal energy transfer in a closed system results in a more uniform energy distribution.
Key skills: Experimental design, Analyzing thermodynamicsDevelop and use a model of two objects interacting through fields to illustrate forces and changes in energy.
Key skills: Modeling field interactions, Analyzing energy changesUse mathematical representations to support a claim regarding relationships among the frequency, wavelength, and speed of waves.
Key skills: Mathematical modeling, Analyzing wave propertiesEvaluate questions about the advantages of using a digital transmission and storage of information.
Key skills: Evaluating technology, Analyzing information storageEvaluate the claims, evidence, and reasoning behind the idea that electromagnetic radiation can be described as a wave or a particle.
Key skills: Evaluating evidence, Analyzing wave-particle dualityEvaluate the validity and reliability of claims in published materials of the effects that different frequencies of radiation have when absorbed by matter.
Key skills: Critical reading, Analyzing radiation effectsCommunicate technical information about how technological devices use wave behavior to transmit and capture information and energy.
Key skills: Technical communication, Analyzing wave interactionsConstruct an explanation based on evidence for how the structure of DNA determines the structure of proteins which carry out essential functions.
Key skills: Explaining protein synthesis, Analyzing DNA structureDevelop and use a model to illustrate the hierarchical organization of interacting systems that provide specific functions within multicellular organisms.
Key skills: Modeling biological systems, Analyzing organizationPlan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that feedback mechanisms maintain homeostasis.
Key skills: Experimental design, Analyzing homeostasisUse a model to illustrate the role of cellular division (mitosis) and differentiation in producing and maintaining complex organisms.
Key skills: Modeling cell cycle, Explaining differentiationUse a model to illustrate how photosynthesis transforms light energy into stored chemical energy.
Key skills: Modeling photosynthesis, Explaining energy transformationConstruct and revise an explanation for how carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen from sugar molecules form amino acids and other large carbon-based molecules.
Key skills: Explaining biosynthesis, Analyzing matter cyclingUse a model to illustrate that cellular respiration is a chemical process whereby bonds are broken and formed resulting in a net transfer of energy.
Key skills: Modeling respiration, Explaining energy transferUse mathematical and/or computational representations to support explanations of factors that affect carrying capacity of ecosystems.
Key skills: Computational modeling, Analyzing carrying capacityUse mathematical representations to support and revise explanations about factors affecting biodiversity and populations in ecosystems.
Key skills: Mathematical modeling, Analyzing biodiversityConstruct and revise an explanation based on evidence for the cycling of matter and flow of energy in aerobic and anaerobic conditions.
Key skills: Explaining matter cycling, Analyzing energy flowUse mathematical representations to support claims for the cycling of matter and flow of energy among organisms in an ecosystem.
Key skills: Mathematical modeling, Analyzing trophic levelsDevelop a model to illustrate the role of photosynthesis and cellular respiration in the cycling of carbon among Earth's systems.
Key skills: Modeling carbon cycle, Relating Earth systemsEvaluate the claims, evidence, and reasoning that complex interactions in ecosystems maintain stability, but changing conditions may result in a new ecosystem.
Key skills: Evaluating evidence, Analyzing ecosystem resilienceDesign, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
Key skills: Engineering design, Environmental impact analysisEvaluate the evidence for the role of group behavior on individual and species’ chances to survive and reproduce.
Key skills: Evaluating evidence, Analyzing social behaviorAsk questions to clarify relationships about the role of DNA and chromosomes in coding the instructions for characteristic traits.
Key skills: Asking scientific questions, Analyzing inheritanceMake and defend a claim based on evidence that inheritable genetic variations result from meiosis, replication errors, or mutations.
Key skills: Argument from evidence, Analyzing genetic variationApply concepts of statistics and probability to explain the variation and distribution of expressed traits in a population.
Key skills: Statistical analysis, Explaining trait distributionCommunicate scientific information that common ancestry and biological evolution are supported by multiple lines of empirical evidence.
Key skills: Scientific communication, Analyzing evolutionary evidenceConstruct an explanation based on evidence that evolution results from four factors: potential for increase, variation, competition, and survival.
Key skills: Explaining natural selection, Analyzing population dynamicsApply concepts of statistics and probability to support explanations that organisms with advantageous traits tend to increase in proportion.
Key skills: Statistical analysis, Predicting population shiftsConstruct an explanation based on evidence for how natural selection leads to adaptation of populations.
Key skills: Explaining adaptation, Analyzing selection pressureEvaluate the evidence supporting claims that changes in environmental conditions result in species increase, new species, or extinction.
Key skills: Evaluating evidence, Analyzing environmental impactCreate or revise a simulation to test a solution to mitigate adverse impacts of human activity on biodiversity.
Key skills: Modeling simulations, Designing solutionsDevelop a model based on evidence to illustrate the life span of the sun and the role of nuclear fusion in releasing energy.
Key skills: Modeling stellar life, Explaining nuclear fusionConstruct an explanation of the Big Bang theory based on astronomical evidence of light spectra, galaxy motion, and matter composition.
Key skills: Explaining cosmology, Analyzing spectral dataCommunicate scientific ideas about the way stars, over their life cycle, produce elements.
Key skills: Scientific communication, Explaining nucleosynthesisUse mathematical or computational representations to predict the motion of orbiting objects in the solar system.
Key skills: Mathematical modeling, Predicting orbital motionEvaluate evidence of the movements of continental and oceanic crust and plate tectonics to explain the ages of crustal rocks.
Key skills: Evaluating evidence, Analyzing plate tectonicsApply scientific reasoning and evidence from ancient Earth materials and meteorites to construct an account of Earth’s formation.
Key skills: Scientific reasoning, Reconstructing Earth historyDevelop a model to illustrate how Earth’s internal and surface processes operate at different scales to form features.
Key skills: Modeling geoscience processes, Analyzing spatial scalesAnalyze geoscience data to make the claim that one change to Earth’s surface can create feedbacks that cause changes to other systems.
Key skills: Data analysis, Analyzing system feedbacksDevelop a model based on evidence of Earth’s interior to describe the cycling of matter by thermal convection.
Key skills: Modeling Earth's interior, Explaining convectionUse a model to describe how variations in the flow of energy into and out of Earth’s systems result in changes in climate.
Key skills: Modeling climate systems, Analyzing energy flowPlan and conduct an investigation of the properties of water and its effects on Earth materials and surface processes.
Key skills: Experimental design, Analyzing water propertiesDevelop a quantitative model to describe the cycling of carbon among the hydrosphere, atmosphere, geosphere, and biosphere.
Key skills: Quantitative modeling, Analyzing carbon cyclingConstruct an argument based on evidence about the simultaneous coevolution of Earth’s systems and life on Earth.
Key skills: Argument from evidence, Analyzing coevolutionConstruct an explanation based on evidence for how natural resources, hazards, and climate change have influenced human activity.
Key skills: Explaining human-Earth interaction, Analyzing resource impactEvaluate competing design solutions for developing, managing, and utilizing energy and mineral resources based on cost-benefit ratios.
Key skills: Evaluating solutions, Cost-benefit analysisCreate a computational simulation to illustrate the relationships among natural resources, human sustainability, and biodiversity.
Key skills: Computational modeling, Analyzing sustainabilityEvaluate or refine a technological solution that reduces impacts of human activities on natural systems.
Key skills: Evaluating technology, Designing solutionsAnalyze geoscience data and global climate models to make an evidence-based forecast of climate change and future impacts.
Key skills: Data analysis, Forecasting climate changeUse a computational representation to illustrate the relationships among Earth systems and how they are modified by human activity.
Key skills: Computational modeling, Analyzing human impactAnalyze a major global challenge to specify qualitative and quantitative criteria and constraints for solutions that account for societal needs.
Key skills: Problem analysis, Defining constraintsDesign a solution to a complex real-world problem by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable problems.
Key skills: Engineering design, Problem decompositionEvaluate a solution to a complex real-world problem based on prioritized criteria and trade-offs including cost, safety, and reliability.
Key skills: Evaluating solutions, Trade-off analysisUse a computer simulation to model the impact of proposed solutions to a complex real-world problem with numerous criteria.
Key skills: Computer simulation, Modeling system impactsExplain why the compelling question is important to the student.
Key skills: Questioning, Personal relevanceIdentify disciplinary ideas associated with a compelling question.
Key skills: Disciplinary concepts, Inquiry planningIdentify facts and concepts associated with a supporting question.
Key skills: Fact identification, Supporting questionsMake a claim about a topic using evidence.
Key skills: Claim making, Evidence useDetermine the kinds of sources that will be helpful in answering compelling and supporting questions.
Key skills: Source selection, Inquiry toolsDescribe roles and responsibilities of people in authority.
Key skills: Authority roles, ResponsibilityExplain how all people, not just official leaders, play important roles in a community.
Key skills: Community roles, Civic participationExplain the need for and purposes of rules in various settings.
Key skills: Rules and laws, Social orderExplain what governments are and some of their functions.
Key skills: Government functions, Political systemsDescribe how communities work to accomplish common tasks and fulfill roles of authority.
Key skills: Collective action, Community tasksApply civic virtues when participating in school settings.
Key skills: Civic virtues, School participationDescribe democratic principles such as equality, freedom, liberty, and respect for individual rights.
Key skills: Democratic principles, Individual rightsFollow agreed-upon rules for discussions while responding to others and contributing own ideas.
Key skills: Discussion rules, CollaborationExplain how people can work together to make decisions in the classroom.
Key skills: Decision making, Group workExplain how people can work together to make decisions in the classroom.
Key skills: Classroom governance, Decision makingIdentify and explain how rules of a community are made and changed.
Key skills: Rule making, Community changeDescribe how people have tried to improve their communities over time.
Key skills: Community improvement, Civic actionExplain how scarcity necessitates decision making.
Key skills: Scarcity, Decision makingIdentify the benefits and costs of individual decisions.
Key skills: Cost-benefit analysis, ChoiceDescribe the role of resources (human, physical, other) in making products.
Key skills: Resources, ProductionDescribe the goods and services that people in the local community produce.
Key skills: Goods and services, Local productionIdentify examples of the variety of resources used to produce goods and services.
Key skills: Resource types, Production factorsExplain how people earn income.
Key skills: Income, EarningDescribe how people come together to buy and sell goods and services.
Key skills: Markets, Buying and sellingExplain the role of money in making exchange easier.
Key skills: Money, ExchangeDescribe the role of banks and other financial institutions in an economy.
Key skills: Banks, Financial institutionsExplain why people save.
Key skills: Saving, Financial planningDescribe the goods and services that people in the local community produce.
Key skills: Community economy, ProductionExplain how people can work together to make decisions in the classroom.
Key skills: Collaboration, Global awarenessConstruct maps, graphs, and other representations of familiar places.
Key skills: Map making, Spatial representationUse maps, graphs, and other representations to describe places and relationships.
Key skills: Map reading, Place descriptionUse maps, globes, and other simple geographic models to identify characteristics of places.
Key skills: Globes, Place characteristicsExplain how weather and environmental characteristics affect people’s lives.
Key skills: Weather impact, EnvironmentDescribe how human activities affect the cultural and environmental characteristics of places.
Key skills: Human impact, Cultural traitsIdentify some cultural and environmental characteristics of specific places.
Key skills: Place identity, EnvironmentExplain why and how people, goods, and ideas move from place to place.
Key skills: Movement, MigrationCompare how people in different types of communities use environments to meet daily needs.
Key skills: Community types, Resource useDescribe the connections between the physical environment and objects/activities found there.
Key skills: Environmental links, Activity patternsCreate a chronological sequence of multiple events.
Key skills: Chronology, SequencingCompare life in the past to life today.
Key skills: Past vs. Present, ComparisonGenerate questions about individuals and groups who have shaped a significant historical change.
Key skills: Historical figures, QuestioningCompare perspectives of people in the past to those of people today.
Key skills: Perspectives, Historical empathyIdentify different kinds of historical sources.
Key skills: Source types, Primary sourcesExplain how historical sources can be used to study the past.
Key skills: Source utility, Historical studyIdentify the maker, date, and place of origin for a historical source.
Key skills: Sourcing, ContextualizationGenerate questions about a historical source as it relates to an event or development.
Key skills: Inquiry, Source analysisGenerate possible reasons for an event or development in the past.
Key skills: Causation, ReasoningSelect which reasons for an event are more important than others.
Key skills: Prioritization, Historical significanceGather relevant information from one or two sources while using origin and structure.
Key skills: Information gathering, Source structureEvaluate a source by distinguishing between fact and opinion.
Key skills: Fact vs. Opinion, Source evaluationIdentify evidence that draws information from multiple sources in response to questions.
Key skills: Evidence synthesis, Multiple sourcesUse evidence to develop a claim in response to a compelling question.
Key skills: Claim development, Evidence useConstruct an argument with reasons to address a compelling question.
Key skills: Argumentation, ReasoningConstruct explanations using correct sequence and relevant information.
Key skills: Explanation, SequencingPresent a summary of an argument or explanation to others.
Key skills: Presentation, SummarizationAsk and answer questions about arguments.
Key skills: Critique, QuestioningAsk and answer questions about explanations.
Key skills: Clarification, QuestioningUse listening, consensus-building, and voting procedures to decide on and take action.
Key skills: Consensus building, VotingIdentify a range of local, regional, and global problems and ways people address them.
Key skills: Problem identification, Civic actionUse listening, consensus-building, and voting procedures to decide on and take action.
Key skills: Action planning, CollaborationDescribe examples of capital goods and human capital.
Key skills: Capital, ResourcesDescribe products that are produced abroad and sold domestically and vice versa.
Key skills: Global markets, Imports/ExportsIdentify ways that a catastrophic disaster may affect people living in a place.
Key skills: Natural disasters, Impact analysisExplain different contexts in which people lived in the past.
Key skills: Contextualization, Historical lifeCompare different accounts of the same historical event.
Key skills: Multiple accounts, Evidence comparisonExplain why the compelling question is important to the student.
Key skills: Questioning, Personal relevanceIdentify disciplinary ideas associated with a compelling question.
Key skills: Disciplinary concepts, Inquiry planningDetermine the kinds of sources that will be helpful in answering compelling and supporting questions.
Key skills: Sourcing, Inquiry planningMake connections between supporting questions and compelling questions.
Key skills: Questioning, Logical connectionsDetermine the kinds of sources that will be helpful in answering compelling and supporting questions.
Key skills: Sourcing, Inquiry planningDescribe roles and responsibilities of people in authority.
Key skills: Authority, ResponsibilityExplain how all people, not just official leaders, play important roles in a community.
Key skills: Community roles, Civic participationExplain the need for and purposes of rules in various settings inside and outside of school.
Key skills: Rules, Social orderExplain how people, including students, can work together to make decisions in the classroom.
Key skills: Collaboration, Decision makingExplain the need for and purposes of rules in various settings inside and outside of school.
Key skills: Rules, GovernanceDescribe how communities work to accomplish common tasks, establish responsibilities, and fulfill roles of authority.
Key skills: Community tasks, AuthorityApply civic virtues when participating in school settings.
Key skills: Civic virtue, ParticipationDescribe democratic principles such as equality, freedom, liberty, and respect for individual rights.
Key skills: Democratic principles, Individual rightsFollow agreed-upon rules for discussions while responding attentively to others.
Key skills: Discussion rules, Active listeningExplain how people can work together to make decisions in the classroom.
Key skills: Collaboration, Classroom governanceIdentify and explain how rules of a community are made, enforced, and changed.
Key skills: Rule making, EnforcementDescribe how people demonstrate civic virtues in many ways.
Key skills: Civic virtue, Social responsibilityExplain how scarcity necessitates decision making.
Key skills: Scarcity, Decision makingIdentify the benefits and costs of individual decisions.
Key skills: Cost-benefit analysis, ChoiceDescribe the role of resources in making goods and services.
Key skills: Resources, ProductionDescribe the goods and services that people in the local community produce and those that are produced in other communities.
Key skills: Goods and services, Community productionIdentify examples of the variety of resources (human, capital, and natural) used to produce goods and services.
Key skills: Resource types, ProductionExplain how people earn income.
Key skills: Income, LaborDescribe how people come together to buy and sell goods and services.
Key skills: Markets, ExchangeExplain the role of money in making exchange easier.
Key skills: Money, ExchangeDescribe the role of banks and other financial institutions in an economy.
Key skills: Financial institutions, BankingConstruct and explain maps and other representations of familiar places.
Key skills: Mapping, Spatial representationUse maps, graphs, photographs, and other representations to describe places and the relationships and interactions that shape them.
Key skills: Data analysis, Place descriptionUse maps, globes, and other simple geographic models to identify cultural and environmental characteristics of places.
Key skills: Geographic models, Cultural characteristicsExplain how weather, climate, and other environmental characteristics affect people’s lives in a place or region.
Key skills: Climate impact, Human-environment interactionDescribe how human activities affect the cultural and environmental characteristics of places or regions.
Key skills: Human impact, Environmental changeIdentify some cultural and environmental characteristics of specific places.
Key skills: Place identification, Cultural traitsExplain why and how people, goods, and ideas move from place to place.
Key skills: Movement, TransportationCompare how people in different types of communities use local and distant environments to meet their daily needs.
Key skills: Comparative geography, Resource useDescribe the connections between the physical environment of a place and the economic activities found there.
Key skills: Economic geography, Physical environmentDescribe changes in the physical and cultural characteristics of world regions.
Key skills: Regional change, Physical geographyExplain how the consumption of products in one place can affect people and the environment in other places.
Key skills: Global connections, ConsumptionIdentify ways that a catastrophe or environmental change in one place can affect people living in other places.
Key skills: Environmental impact, InterdependenceCreate a chronological sequence of multiple events.
Key skills: Chronology, SequencingCompare life in the past to life today.
Key skills: Historical comparison, Continuity and changeGenerate questions about individuals and groups who have shaped a significant historical change.
Key skills: Historical inquiry, Biographical studyCompare perspectives of people in the past to those of people in the present.
Key skills: Historical perspective, EmpathyExplain different accounts of the same historical event.
Key skills: Multiple accounts, Historical interpretationCompare different accounts of the same historical event.
Key skills: Comparative analysis, Historical evidenceIdentify different kinds of historical sources.
Key skills: Source identification, Primary/Secondary sourcesExplain how historical sources can be used to study the past.
Key skills: Evidence use, Historical methodIdentify the maker, date, and place of origin for a historical source from information within the source itself.
Key skills: Sourcing, ContextualizationGenerate questions about a particular historical source as it relates to a particular historical event or development.
Key skills: Source analysis, QuestioningGenerate possible reasons for an event or development in the past.
Key skills: Causation, Historical reasoningSelect which reasons might be more important than others in explaining why a historical event or development happened.
Key skills: Causation, PrioritizationGather relevant information from one or two sources while using the origin and structure to guide the selection.
Key skills: Information gathering, SourcingEvaluate a source by distinguishing between fact and opinion.
Key skills: Fact vs Opinion, Source evaluationGather relevant information from one or two sources while using the origin and structure to guide the selection.
Key skills: Evidence gathering, SourcingTake notes and sort evidence into provided categories.
Key skills: Note taking, CategorizationConstruct an argument with reasons.
Key skills: Argumentation, ReasoningConstruct explanations using reasoning, correct sequence, examples, and details.
Key skills: Explanation, Logical structurePresent a summary of an argument using print, oral, and digital technologies.
Key skills: Communication, Technology useAsk and answer questions about arguments.
Key skills: Critical thinking, QuestioningAsk and answer questions about explanations.
Key skills: Critical thinking, QuestioningUse listening, consensus-building, and voting procedures to decide on and take action in their classrooms.
Key skills: Consensus building, Civic actionIdentify a range of local, regional, and global problems, and some ways in which people are trying to address these problems.
Key skills: Problem identification, Global awarenessUse listening, consensus-building, and voting procedures to decide on and take action in their classrooms.
Key skills: Decision making, Civic actionExplain why compelling questions are important to others (e.g., peers, adults).
Key skills: Questioning, Critical ThinkingIdentify disciplinary concepts and ideas associated with a compelling question that are open to different interpretations.
Key skills: Concept Identification, InterpretationIdentify the disciplinary concepts and ideas associated with a supporting question that are open to interpretation.
Key skills: Concept Identification, Inquiry PlanningExplain how supporting questions help answer compelling questions in an inquiry.
Key skills: Inquiry Structure, Logical ReasoningDetermine the kinds of sources that will be helpful in answering compelling and supporting questions.
Key skills: Source Selection, Perspective AnalysisDistinguish the responsibilities and powers of government officials at various levels and branches of government.
Key skills: Government Structure, Role AnalysisExplain how a democracy relies on people’s responsible participation, and draw implications for how individuals should participate.
Key skills: Civic Participation, Democratic PrinciplesExamine the origins and purposes of rules, laws, and key U.S. constitutional provisions.
Key skills: Legal Origins, Constitutional LiteracyExplain how groups of people make rules to create responsibilities and protect freedoms.
Key skills: Rule Making, Rights and ResponsibilitiesExplain the origins, functions, and structure of different systems of government.
Key skills: Government Systems, Comparative CivicsDescribe ways in which people benefit from and are challenged by working together.
Key skills: Collaboration, Organizational RolesApply civic virtues and democratic principles in school settings.
Key skills: Civic Virtue, Application of PrinciplesIdentify core civic virtues and democratic principles that guide government, society, and communities.
Key skills: Civic Virtue, Value IdentificationUse deliberative processes when making decisions or reaching judgments as a group.
Key skills: Deliberation, Group Decision MakingIdentify the beliefs, experiences, perspectives, and values that underlie their own and others’ points of view about civic issues.
Key skills: Perspective Taking, Value AnalysisCompare procedures for making decisions in a variety of settings, including classroom, school, government, and/or society.
Key skills: Decision Making, Comparative AnalysisExplain how rules and laws change society and how people strategy to change rules and laws.
Key skills: Social Change, Strategic ThinkingExplain how policies are developed to address public problems.
Key skills: Policy Development, Problem SolvingIllustrate historical and contemporary means of changing society.
Key skills: Civic Action, Historical ContextCompare the benefits and costs of individual choices.
Key skills: Cost-Benefit Analysis, Decision MakingIdentify positive and negative incentives that influence the decisions people make.
Key skills: Incentive Identification, Behavioral AnalysisIdentify examples of the variety of resources (human capital, physical capital, and natural resources) used to produce goods and services.
Key skills: Resource Identification, Production FactorsExplain that because of scarcity, individuals, regions, and societies must make choices.
Key skills: Scarcity, Economic ChoiceExplain the role of money in making exchange easier.
Key skills: Medium of Exchange, Economic FunctionExplain the relationship between investment in human capital, productivity, and future incomes.
Key skills: Human Capital, ProductivityExplain how profits influence sellers in markets.
Key skills: Profit Motive, Market DynamicsIdentify examples of external benefits and costs.
Key skills: Externalities, Economic ImpactDescribe the role of other financial institutions in an economy.
Key skills: Financial Institutions, Economic RolesExplain what interest rates are.
Key skills: Interest Rates, Financial LiteracyExplain the meaning of inflation, deflation, and unemployment.
Key skills: Economic Indicators, Macroeconomic ConceptsExplain the ways in which the government pays for the goods and services it provides.
Key skills: Public Finance, Government SpendingDescribe ways people can increase productivity by using improved capital goods and improving their human capital.
Key skills: Productivity, Capital InvestmentExplain how trade leads to increasing economic interdependence among nations.
Key skills: Global Trade, InterdependenceExplain the effects of increasing economic interdependence on different groups within participating nations.
Key skills: Economic Impact, Global PerspectivesConstruct maps and other graphic representations of both familiar and unfamiliar places.
Key skills: Map Construction, Spatial RepresentationUse maps, satellite images, and other representations to explain relationships between locations and environmental characteristics.
Key skills: Spatial Analysis, Data InterpretationUse maps of different scales to describe the locations of cultural and environmental characteristics.
Key skills: Scale Analysis, Location DescriptionExplain how culture influences the way people modify and adapt to their environments.
Key skills: Cultural Adaptation, Environmental ModificationExplain how the cultural and environmental characteristics of places change over time.
Key skills: Temporal Change, Place AnalysisDescribe how environmental and cultural characteristics influence population distribution in specific places or regions.
Key skills: Population Distribution, Environmental InfluenceExplain how cultural and environmental characteristics affect the distribution and movement of people, goods, and ideas.
Key skills: Movement Analysis, Distribution PatternsExplain how human settlements and movements relate to the locations and use of various natural resources.
Key skills: Settlement Patterns, Resource UseAnalyze the effects of catastrophic environmental and technological events on human settlements and migration.
Key skills: Disaster Analysis, Migration ImpactExplain why environmental characteristics vary among different world regions.
Key skills: Regional Variation, Environmental AnalysisDescribe how the spatial patterns of economic activities in a place change over time because of interactions with nearby and distant places.
Key skills: Economic Geography, Spatial InteractionExplain how natural and human-made catastrophic events in one place affect people living in other places.
Key skills: Global Impact, InterconnectednessCreate and use a chronological sequence of related events to compare developments that happened at the same time.
Key skills: Chronology, Comparative HistoryCompare life in specific historical time periods to life today.
Key skills: Historical Comparison, Continuity and ChangeGenerate questions about individuals and groups who have shaped significant historical changes and continuities.
Key skills: Question Generation, Historical AgencyExplain why individuals and groups during the same historical period differed in their perspectives.
Key skills: Perspective Analysis, Historical ContextExplain connections among historical contexts and people’s perspectives at the time.
Key skills: Contextualization, Perspective AnalysisDescribe how people’s perspectives shaped the historical sources they created.
Key skills: Source Analysis, Perspective InfluenceBegins in grades 9–12.
Key skills: N/ABegins in grades 9–12.
Key skills: N/ASummarize how different kinds of historical sources are used to explain events in the past.
Key skills: Source Summarization, Evidence UseCompare information provided by different historical sources about the past.
Key skills: Source Comparison, Evidence AnalysisInfer the intended audience and purpose of a historical source from information within the source itself.
Key skills: Inference, Source AnalysisGenerate questions about multiple historical sources and their relationships to particular historical events and developments.
Key skills: Question Generation, Evidence SynthesisUse information about a historical source to judge the extent to which the source is useful for studying a particular topic.
Key skills: Source Evaluation, Utility JudgmentExplain probable causes and effects of events and developments.
Key skills: Causation, Historical AnalysisBegins in grades 6–8.
Key skills: N/AUse evidence to develop a claim about the past.
Key skills: Claim Development, Evidence UseSummarize the central claim in a secondary work of history.
Key skills: Summarization, Secondary Source AnalysisGather relevant information from multiple sources while using the origin, structure, and context to guide the selection.
Key skills: Information Gathering, Source SelectionUse distinctions among fact and opinion to determine the credibility of multiple sources.
Key skills: Fact vs Opinion, Credibility AssessmentIdentify evidence that draws information from multiple sources in response to compelling questions.
Key skills: Evidence Identification, SynthesisUse evidence to develop claims in response to compelling questions.
Key skills: Claim Development, Evidence UseConstruct arguments using claims and evidence from multiple sources.
Key skills: Argument Construction, Evidence UseConstruct explanations using reasoning, correct sequence, examples, and details with relevant information and data.
Key skills: Explanation Construction, Logical ReasoningPresent a summary of arguments and explanations to others outside the classroom using print, oral, and digital technologies.
Key skills: Presentation, CommunicationCritique arguments.
Key skills: Critique, Analytical ThinkingCritique explanations.
Key skills: Critique, Analytical ThinkingDraw on disciplinary concepts to explain the challenges people have faced and opportunities they have created in addressing problems.
Key skills: Problem Analysis, Concept ApplicationExplain different strategies and approaches students and others could take to address problems, and predict possible results.
Key skills: Strategy Development, PredictionUse a range of deliberative and democratic procedures to make decisions about and act on civic problems in their classrooms and schools.
Key skills: Civic Action, Democratic ProceduresExplain why compelling questions are important to others (e.g., peers, adults).
Key skills: Questioning, Critical thinkingIdentify disciplinary concepts and ideas associated with a compelling question that are open to different interpretations.
Key skills: Concept identification, InterpretationIdentify the disciplinary concepts and ideas associated with a supporting question that are open to interpretation.
Key skills: Supporting questions, AnalysisExplain how supporting questions help answer compelling questions in an inquiry.
Key skills: Inquiry planning, Logical reasoningDetermine the kinds of sources that will be helpful in answering compelling and supporting questions.
Key skills: Source selection, Information gatheringDistinguish the responsibilities and powers of government officials at various levels and branches of government.
Key skills: Government structure, Role analysisExplain how a democracy relies on people’s responsible participation, and draw implications for how individuals should participate.
Key skills: Civic participation, Democratic principlesExamine the origins and purposes of rules, laws, and key U.S. constitutional provisions.
Key skills: Constitutional literacy, Legal originsExplain how groups of people make rules to create responsibilities and protect freedoms.
Key skills: Rule making, Rights and responsibilitiesExplain the origins, functions, and structure of different systems of government, including those created by the U.S. and state constitutions.
Key skills: Comparative government, Constitutional studyDescribe ways in which people benefit from and are challenged by working together, including through government and voluntary organizations.
Key skills: Collaboration, Civic societyApply civic virtues and democratic principles in school settings.
Key skills: Civic virtue, ApplicationIdentify core civic virtues and democratic principles that guide government, society, and communities.
Key skills: Value identification, Community guidanceUse deliberative processes when making decisions or reaching judgments as a group.
Key skills: Deliberation, Group decision-makingIdentify the beliefs, experiences, perspectives, and values that underlie their own and others’ points of view about civic issues.
Key skills: Perspective taking, Point of viewCompare procedures for making decisions in a variety of settings, including classroom, school, government, and/or society.
Key skills: Procedural comparison, Decision makingExplain how rules and laws change society and how people change rules and laws.
Key skills: Social change, Legal evolutionExplain how policies are developed to address public problems.
Key skills: Policy development, Problem solvingIllustrate historical and contemporary means of changing society.
Key skills: Social action, Historical methodsCompare the benefits and costs of individual choices.
Key skills: Cost-benefit analysis, Decision makingIdentify positive and negative incentives that influence the decisions people make.
Key skills: Incentive analysis, Behavioral economicsIdentify examples of the variety of resources (human, physical, and natural) that are used to produce goods and services.
Key skills: Resource identification, ProductionExplain why individuals and businesses specialize and trade.
Key skills: Specialization, TradeExplain the role of money in making exchange easier.
Key skills: Currency function, ExchangeExplain the relationship between investment in human capital, productivity, and future incomes.
Key skills: Human capital, ProductivityExplain how profits influence sellers in markets.
Key skills: Profit motive, Market dynamicsIdentify examples of external benefits and costs.
Key skills: Externalities, Economic impactDescribe the role of other financial institutions in an economy.
Key skills: Financial systems, Institutional rolesExplain what interest rates are.
Key skills: Interest rates, Financial literacyExplain the meaning of inflation, deflation, and unemployment.
Key skills: Macroeconomic indicators, Economic termsExplain the ways in which the government pays for the goods and services it provides.
Key skills: Public finance, TaxationDescribe the role of financial institutions relative to savings and borrowing.
Key skills: Banking, Personal financeExplain how trade leads to increasing economic interdependence among nations.
Key skills: Interdependence, Global tradeExplain the effects of increasing economic interdependence on different groups within participating nations.
Key skills: Global impact, Group analysisConstruct maps and other graphic representations of both familiar and unfamiliar places.
Key skills: Map making, Spatial representationUse maps, satellite images, and other representations to explain relationships between locations and environmental characteristics.
Key skills: Spatial analysis, Environmental studyUse maps of different scales to describe the locations of cultural and environmental characteristics.
Key skills: Scale usage, Location descriptionExplain how culture influences the way people modify and adapt to their environments.
Key skills: Human-environment interaction, Cultural adaptationExplain how the cultural and environmental characteristics of places change over time.
Key skills: Temporal change, Place characteristicsDescribe how environmental and cultural characteristics influence population distribution in specific places or regions.
Key skills: Demographics, Spatial distributionExplain how cultural and environmental characteristics affect the distribution and movement of people, goods, and ideas.
Key skills: Migration, DiffusionExplain how human settlements and movements relate to the locations and use of various natural resources.
Key skills: Settlement patterns, Resource useAnalyze the effects of catastrophic environmental and technological events on human settlements and migration.
Key skills: Disaster analysis, Migration impactExplain why environmental characteristics vary among different world regions.
Key skills: Regional variation, Physical geographyDescribe how the spatial patterns of economic activities in a place change over time because of interactions.
Key skills: Economic geography, Spatial patternsExplain how natural and human-made catastrophic events in one place affect people living in other places.
Key skills: Global connection, Impact analysisCreate and use a chronological sequence of related events to compare developments that happened at the same time.
Key skills: Chronology, Comparative historyCompare life in specific historical time periods to life today.
Key skills: Historical comparison, Continuity and changeGenerate questions about individuals and groups who have shaped significant historical changes and continuities.
Key skills: Historical questioning, AgencyExplain why individuals and groups during the same historical period differed in their perspectives.
Key skills: Historical perspective, Diversity of thoughtExplain connections among historical contexts and people’s perspectives at the time.
Key skills: Contextualization, Perspective analysisDescribe how people’s perspectives shaped the historical sources they created.
Key skills: Source analysis, Bias identificationExplain why specific historical accounts of the same event or issue can vary.
Key skills: Historiography, Account variationSummarize how different kinds of historical sources are used to explain events in the past.
Key skills: Source utilization, Historical explanationCompare information provided by different historical sources about the past.
Key skills: Corroboration, Source comparisonInfer the intended audience and purpose of a historical source from information within the source itself.
Key skills: Inference, Audience analysisGenerate questions about multiple historical sources and their relationships to particular historical events.
Key skills: Source questioning, Relational analysisUse information about a historical source to judge the extent to which the source is useful for studying a particular topic.
Key skills: Source evaluation, Utility judgmentExplain probable causes and effects of events and developments.
Key skills: Causality, Historical developmentUse evidence to develop a claim about the past.
Key skills: Evidence-based claims, ArgumentationSummarize the central claim in a secondary work of history.
Key skills: Summarization, Claim identificationGather relevant information from multiple sources while using the origin, structure, and context to guide the selection.
Key skills: Information gathering, Source evaluationUse distinctions among fact and opinion to determine the credibility of multiple sources.
Key skills: Fact vs opinion, Credibility assessmentIdentify evidence that draws information from multiple sources in response to compelling questions.
Key skills: Evidence synthesis, Inquiry responseUse evidence to develop claims in response to compelling questions.
Key skills: Claim development, Evidence applicationConstruct arguments using claims and evidence from multiple sources.
Key skills: Argument construction, Evidence usageConstruct explanations using reasoning, correct sequence, examples, and details with relevant information and data.
Key skills: Explanation, Logical sequencingPresent a summary of arguments and explanations to others outside the classroom using print, oral, and digital technologies.
Key skills: Communication, PresentationCritique arguments.
Key skills: Critique, EvaluationCritique explanations.
Key skills: Critique, AnalysisDraw on disciplinary concepts to explain the challenges people have faced and opportunities they have created.
Key skills: Contextual explanation, Problem analysisExplain different strategies and approaches students and others could take to address problems, and predict possible results.
Key skills: Strategic planning, PredictionUse a range of deliberative and democratic procedures to make decisions about and act on civic problems.
Key skills: Civic action, Democratic processExplain how a question represents key ideas in the field.
Key skills: Question formulation, Disciplinary conceptsExplain points of agreement experts have about interpretations and applications of disciplinary concepts and ideas associated with a compelling question.
Key skills: Expert perspectives, Concept applicationExplain points of agreement experts have about interpretations and applications of disciplinary concepts and ideas associated with a supporting question.
Key skills: Supporting questions, Disciplinary ideasExplain how the relationship between supporting questions and compelling questions is mutually reinforcing.
Key skills: Question relationships, Inquiry planningDetermine the kinds of sources that will be helpful in answering compelling and supporting questions, taking into consideration multiple points of view.
Key skills: Source selection, Multiple perspectivesDistinguish the powers and responsibilities of local, state, tribal, national, and international civic and political institutions.
Key skills: Political institutions, Institutional powerExplain specific roles played by citizens (such as voters, jurors, taxpayers, members of the armed forces, petitioners, protesters, and office-holders).
Key skills: Civic roles, Citizen participationExamine the origins, purposes, and impact of constitutions, laws, treaties, and international agreements.
Key skills: Legal documents, Policy impactExplain the powers and limits of the three branches of government, public officials, and bureaucracies at different levels.
Key skills: Government structure, Checks and balancesExplain the origins, functions, and structure of government with reference to the U.S. Constitution, state constitutions, and selected other systems.
Key skills: Constitutional basis, Government functionsDescribe the roles of political, civil, and economic organizations in shaping people’s lives.
Key skills: Social organizations, Societal influenceApply civic virtues and democratic principles in school and community settings.
Key skills: Civic virtue, Democratic principlesAnalyze ideas and principles contained in the founding documents of the United States, and explain how they influence the social and political system.
Key skills: Founding documents, Political analysisCompare deliberative processes used by a wide variety of groups in various settings.
Key skills: Deliberation, Group decision-makingExplain the relevance of personal interests and perspectives, civic virtues, and democratic principles when people address issues and problems.
Key skills: Problem solving, Civic valuesDifferentiate among procedures for making decisions in the classroom, school, civil society, and government in terms of how civic purposes are intended.
Key skills: Decision-making, Civic purposeAssess specific rules and laws (both actual and proposed) as means of addressing public problems.
Key skills: Law assessment, Public policyAnalyze the purposes, implementation, and consequences of public policies in multiple settings.
Key skills: Policy analysis, ImplementationCompare historical and contemporary means of changing societies, and promoting the common good.
Key skills: Social change, Common goodExplain how economic decisions affect the well-being of individuals, businesses, and society.
Key skills: Economic impact, Decision-makingEvaluate alternative approaches or solutions to current economic issues in terms of benefits and costs for different groups and society.
Key skills: Cost-benefit analysis, Economic solutionsExplain how changes in supply and demand cause changes in prices and quantities of goods and services, labor, credit, and foreign currencies.
Key skills: Supply and demand, Market pricesAnalyze the role of innovation and entrepreneurship in a market economy.
Key skills: Innovation, EntrepreneurshipExplain the role of institutions such as clearly defined property rights and the rule of law in a market economy.
Key skills: Property rights, Rule of lawExplain how changes in real interest rates and price levels affect the financial well-being of consumers, borrowers, and savers.
Key skills: Interest rates, Financial literacyAnalyze the role of money and banking in an economy and the role of government in the financial system.
Key skills: Banking, Monetary systemExplain how external benefits and costs influence the choices of individuals and organizations.
Key skills: Externalities, IncentivesDescribe the roles of institutions such as corporations, non-profits, and labor unions in a market economy.
Key skills: Economic institutions, Market rolesExplain how changes in the level of competition in a market affect price and output.
Key skills: Market competition, Price and outputUse efficiency and equity to evaluate government policy.
Key skills: Efficiency, EquityExplain how GDP, unemployment, and inflation are used to measure the performance of the economy.
Key skills: Economic indicators, MacroeconomicsExplain how monetary and fiscal policies are used to influence the economy.
Key skills: Fiscal policy, Monetary policyExplain how international trade and the movement of goods, services, and financial capital affect an economy.
Key skills: International trade, Global economyExplain the benefits and costs of trade policies to different groups and nations.
Key skills: Trade policy, Global interdependenceConstruct maps to represent and explain the spatial patterns of cultural and environmental characteristics.
Key skills: Map construction, Spatial patternsUse maps, satellite images, photographs, and other representations to explain relationships between locations and changes in environmental characteristics.
Key skills: Geospatial data, Environmental changeUse paper-based and electronic mapping and graphing techniques to represent and analyze spatial patterns.
Key skills: Mapping techniques, Data analysisExplain how cultural patterns and economic decisions influence environments and the daily lives of people.
Key skills: Human-environment interaction, Cultural patternsAnalyze the combinations of cultural and environmental characteristics that make places both similar to and different from other places.
Key skills: Place analysis, Regional comparisonExplain how the physical and human characteristics of places and regions are connected to human identities and cultures.
Key skills: Cultural identity, Physical geographyExplain how changes in transportation and communication technology influence spatial connections and the diffusion of ideas.
Key skills: Technology influence, Cultural diffusionAnalyze how relationships between humans and environments extend or constrain settlement and movement.
Key skills: Human migration, Environmental constraintsEvaluate the influences of long-term human-induced environmental change on spatial patterns of conflict and cooperation.
Key skills: Environmental conflict, SustainabilityAnalyze the ways in which cultural and environmental characteristics vary among various regions of the world.
Key skills: Regional variation, Global geographyExplain how the uneven distribution of natural resources and biotic/abiotic systems influence spatial patterns of economic activities.
Key skills: Resource distribution, Economic geographyExplain how global changes in population distribution patterns affect changes in land use in particular places and regions.
Key skills: Population patterns, Land useAnalyze connections among events and developments in broader historical contexts.
Key skills: Historical context, Event analysisClassify series of historical events and developments as examples of change and/or continuity.
Key skills: Change and continuity, Historical classificationUse questions generated about individuals and groups to analyze why they are seen as historically significant.
Key skills: Historical significance, Biographical analysisAnalyze multiple factors that influenced the perspectives of people during different historical eras.
Key skills: Historical perspectives, Era analysisExplain how and why perspectives of people have changed over time.
Key skills: Perspective change, Temporal analysisAnalyze how people’s perspectives influenced what information they available as they created historical sources.
Key skills: Source creation, Bias analysisClassify the kinds of historical sources used in a secondary interpretation.
Key skills: Source classification, Secondary sourcesDetect possible limitations in the historical record based on evidence collected from different kinds of historical sources.
Key skills: Historical record, Evidence limitationsUse other historical sources to infer a plausible context for other sources and guide the selection of additional evidence.
Key skills: Contextualization, Evidence selectionGenerate relative questions about multiple historical sources and their relationships to particular historical events.
Key skills: Questioning, Source relationshipsExplain multiple causes and effects of events and developments in the past.
Key skills: Cause and effect, Historical developmentsEvaluate the relative influence of various causes of events and developments in the past.
Key skills: Causation, Historical evaluationOrganize applicable evidence into a coherent argument about the past.
Key skills: Argumentation, Evidence organizationCompare the central arguments in secondary works of history on related topics in multiple media.
Key skills: Comparative analysis, Secondary worksGather relevant information from multiple sources while using the origin, authority, structure, context, and corroborative value to guide selection.
Key skills: Information gathering, Source evaluationEvaluate the credibility of a source by determining its relevance and intended use.
Key skills: Credibility, RelevanceIdentify evidence that draws from multiple sources to support claims, noting evidentiary limitations.
Key skills: Evidence identification, Claim supportDevelop claims and counterclaims while pointing out the strengths and limitations of both.
Key skills: Claims and counterclaims, Critical thinkingConstruct arguments using claims and evidence from multiple sources, while acknowledging strengths and limitations.
Key skills: Argument construction, Evidence useConstruct explanations using reasoning, correct sequence, examples, and details with relevant information and data.
Key skills: Explanation, ReasoningPresent adaptations of arguments and explanations to reach audiences outside the classroom using various technologies.
Key skills: Presentation, Communication technologyCritique arguments for credibility.
Key skills: Critique, Argument evaluationCritique explanations for credibility.
Key skills: Critique, Explanation evaluationDraw on multiple disciplinary lenses to analyze how a specific problem can manifest itself at local, regional, and global levels.
Key skills: Problem analysis, Disciplinary lensesAssess individual and collective capacities to take action to address local, regional, and global problems.
Key skills: Action assessment, Civic agencyApply a range of deliberative and democratic procedures to make decisions and take action in various contexts.
Key skills: Democratic action, Decision-makingExplain how a question represents key ideas in the field.
Key skills: Question formulation, Disciplinary relevanceExplain points of agreement experts have about interpretations and applications of disciplinary concepts and ideas associated with a compelling question.
Key skills: Expert perspectives, Concept applicationExplain points of agreement experts have about interpretations and applications of disciplinary concepts and ideas associated with a supporting question.
Key skills: Supporting questions, Expert consensusExplain how the relationship between supporting questions and compelling questions is mutually reinforcing.
Key skills: Inquiry structure, Question relationshipsDetermine the kinds of sources that will be helpful in answering compelling and supporting questions, taking into consideration multiple points of view.
Key skills: Source selection, Perspective analysisDistinguish the powers and responsibilities of local, state, tribal, national, and international civic and political institutions.
Key skills: Political institutions, Civic responsibilityExplain specific roles played by citizens (such as voters, jurors, taxpayers, members of the armed forces, petitioners, protesters, and office-holders).
Key skills: Citizen roles, Civic participationExamine the origins, purposes, and impact of constitutions, laws, treaties, and international agreements.
Key skills: Legal frameworks, Policy impactExplain the powers and limits of the three branches of government, public officials, and bureaucracies at different levels.
Key skills: Separation of powers, Government structureExplain the origins, functions, and structure of government with reference to the U.S. Constitution, state constitutions, and other systems.
Key skills: Constitutional basis, Governmental systemsDescribe the roles of political, civil, and economic organizations in shaping people’s lives.
Key skills: Organizational impact, Social influenceApply civic virtues and democratic principles in school and community settings.
Key skills: Civic virtue, Democratic principlesAnalyze ideas and principles contained in the founding documents of the United States, and explain how they influence the social and political system.
Key skills: Founding documents, Political analysisCompare deliberative processes used by a wide variety of groups in various settings.
Key skills: Deliberation, Group decision-makingExplain the relevance of personal interests, civic virtues, and democratic principles when people address issues in government and civil society.
Key skills: Civic engagement, Interest analysisDifferentiate among procedures for making decisions in the classroom, school, civil society, and government in terms of how civic purposes are intended.
Key skills: Decision-making, Civic purposeAssess specific rules and laws (both actual and proposed) as means of addressing public problems.
Key skills: Legal assessment, Problem solvingAnalyze the purposes, implementation, and consequences of public policies in multiple settings.
Key skills: Policy analysis, Consequence evaluationCompare historical and contemporary means of changing societies, and promoting the common good.
Key skills: Social change, Common goodExplain how economic decisions affect the well-being of individuals, businesses, and society.
Key skills: Economic impact, Well-beingEvaluate alternative approaches or solutions to current economic issues in terms of benefits and costs for different groups and society as a whole.
Key skills: Cost-benefit analysis, Economic issuesExplain how changes in supply and demand cause changes in prices and quantities of goods and services, labor, credit, and foreign currencies.
Key skills: Supply and demand, Market dynamicsAnalyze the role of innovation and entrepreneurship in a market economy.
Key skills: Innovation, EntrepreneurshipExplain the role of institutions such as clearly defined property rights and the rule of law in a market economy.
Key skills: Economic institutions, Property rightsExplain how changes in interest rates affect borrowing and spending.
Key skills: Interest rates, Financial literacyAnalyze the role of government in a market economy.
Key skills: Government role, Market regulationExplain how external benefits and costs influence the choices people make.
Key skills: Externalities, Choice analysisDescribe the roles of institutions such as corporations, non-profits, and labor unions in a market economy.
Key skills: Economic organizations, Market rolesExplain how changes in the level of competition in a market affect prices and quantities produced.
Key skills: Market competition, Price determinationUse efficiency and equity to evaluate government policy.
Key skills: Policy evaluation, Efficiency and equityExplain how GDP, unemployment, and inflation are used to measure the performance of the economy.
Key skills: Economic indicators, MacroeconomicsExplain how changes in the level of GDP, unemployment, and inflation affect the economy.
Key skills: Economic trends, Impact analysisExplain how the government uses fiscal and monetary policies to influence the economy.
Key skills: Fiscal policy, Monetary policyExplain the benefits and costs of trade and why people and nations trade.
Key skills: International trade, Trade benefitsConstruct maps to represent and explain the spatial patterns of cultural and environmental characteristics.
Key skills: Map construction, Spatial patternsUse maps, satellite images, and other representations to explain relationships between locations and changes in environmental characteristics.
Key skills: Geospatial tools, Environmental changeUse paper-based and electronic mapping and graphing techniques to represent and analyze spatial patterns.
Key skills: Mapping techniques, Data analysisExplain how cultural patterns and economic decisions influence environments and the daily lives of people.
Key skills: Cultural geography, Human-environment interactionAnalyze the combinations of cultural and environmental characteristics that make places both similar to and different from other places.
Key skills: Place analysis, Comparative geographyExplain how the physical and human characteristics of places and regions are connected to human identities and cultures.
Key skills: Regional identity, Cultural connectionExplain how changes in transportation and communication technology influence spatial connections and the diffusion of ideas.
Key skills: Technological impact, Cultural diffusionAnalyze how relationships between humans and environments extend or constrain settlement and movement.
Key skills: Human migration, Environmental constraintsEvaluate the influences of long-term human-induced environmental change on spatial patterns of conflict and cooperation.
Key skills: Conflict analysis, Environmental impactAnalyze the ways in which cultural and environmental characteristics vary among various regions of the world.
Key skills: Global regions, Cultural variationExplain how the uneven distribution of natural resources and relative location have influenced cultural identities and economic interdependence.
Key skills: Resource distribution, Economic interdependenceExplain how global changes in population distribution patterns affect changes in land use in particular places and regions.
Key skills: Demographics, Land useAnalyze connections among events and developments in broader historical contexts.
Key skills: Historical context, Event analysisClassify series of historical events and developments as examples of change and/or continuity.
Key skills: Change and continuity, Historical classificationUse questions generated about individuals and groups to analyze why they are seen as historically significant.
Key skills: Historical significance, Inquiry skillsAnalyze multiple factors that influenced the perspectives of people during different historical eras.
Key skills: Perspective taking, Historical erasExplain how and why perspectives of people have changed over time.
Key skills: Perspective change, Temporal analysisAnalyze how people’s perspectives influenced what information they provided, as well as the historical sources they created.
Key skills: Source analysis, Bias detectionClassify the kinds of historical sources used in a secondary interpretation.
Key skills: Secondary sources, Source classificationDetect possible limitations in the historical record based on evidence collected from different kinds of historical sources.
Key skills: Evidence evaluation, Historical limitationsUse other historical sources to infer a plausible modern use of a source from the past.
Key skills: Inference, Modern applicationGenerate questions about multiple historical sources and their relationships to particular historical events and developments.
Key skills: Question generation, Source relationshipsExplain multiple causes and effects of events and developments in the past.
Key skills: Causation, Historical effectsEvaluate the relative influence of various causes of events and developments in the past.
Key skills: Cause evaluation, Historical influenceOrganize applicable evidence into a coherent argument about the past.
Key skills: Argumentation, Evidence organizationCompare the central arguments in secondary works of history on related topics in multiple media.
Key skills: Comparative analysis, Media literacyGather relevant information from multiple sources while using origin, authority, and context to guide selection.
Key skills: Information gathering, Source evaluationEvaluate the credibility of a source by determining its relevance and intended use.
Key skills: Credibility assessment, RelevanceIdentify evidence that draws information from multiple sources to support claims, noting evidentiary limitations.
Key skills: Evidence identification, Claim supportDevelop claims and counterclaims while pointing out the strengths and limitations of both, based on a variety of sources.
Key skills: Claim development, CounterclaimsConstruct arguments using claims and evidence from multiple sources, acknowledging strengths and limitations.
Key skills: Argument construction, Evidence useConstruct explanations using reasoning, sequence, and details with relevant information and data.
Key skills: Explanation, ReasoningPresent adaptations of arguments and explanations to reach audiences outside the classroom using various technologies.
Key skills: Communication, Presentation skillsCritique arguments for credibility.
Key skills: Critique, Argument evaluationCritique explanations for credibility.
Key skills: Critique, Explanation evaluationDraw on multiple disciplinary lenses to analyze how a specific problem manifests at local, regional, and global levels.
Key skills: Problem analysis, Disciplinary lensesAssess individual and collective capacities to take action to address local, regional, and global problems.
Key skills: Action assessment, Problem solvingApply a range of deliberative and democratic procedures to make decisions and take action.
Key skills: Democratic action, Decision-makingExplain how a question reflects an enduring issue in the field.
Key skills: Questioning, Critical ThinkingExplain points of agreement and disagreement experts have about interpretations and applications of disciplinary concepts and ideas associated with a compelling question.
Key skills: Disciplinary Analysis, Perspective TakingExplain points of agreement and disagreement experts have about interpretations and applications of disciplinary concepts and ideas associated with a supporting question.
Key skills: Expert Analysis, Inquiry PlanningExplain how supporting questions contribute to an inquiry and how, through engaging source work, new compelling and supporting questions emerge.
Key skills: Inquiry Development, Source EngagementDetermine the kinds of sources that will be helpful in answering compelling and supporting questions, taking into consideration multiple points of view represented in the sources.
Key skills: Source Selection, Perspective AnalysisDistinguish the powers and responsibilities of local, state, tribal, national, and international civic and political institutions.
Key skills: Institutional Analysis, GovernanceAnalyze the role of citizens in the U.S. political system, with attention to various theories of democracy and changes in Americans' participation over time.
Key skills: Civic Participation, Democratic TheoryAnalyze the impact of constitutions, laws, treaties, and international agreements on the maintenance of national and international order.
Key skills: Legal Analysis, Global OrderExplain how the U.S. Constitution establishes a system of government that has powers, responsibilities, and limits that have changed over time.
Key skills: Constitutional Law, Historical InterpretationEvaluate citizens’ and institutions’ effectiveness in addressing social and political problems at the local, state, tribal, national, and/or international level.
Key skills: Problem Solving, Civic EvaluationCritique relationships among governments, civil societies, and economic markets.
Key skills: Systems Analysis, Economic CivicsApply civic virtues and democratic principles when working with others.
Key skills: Civic Virtue, CollaborationEvaluate social and political systems in different contexts, times, and places, that promote civic virtues and enact democratic principles.
Key skills: Comparative Politics, Democratic PrinciplesUse appropriate deliberative processes in multiple settings.
Key skills: Deliberation, Decision MakingAnalyze the impact and the appropriate roles of personal interests and perspectives on the application of civic virtues, democratic principles, and human rights.
Key skills: Perspective Analysis, Human RightsEvaluate multiple procedures for making governmental decisions at the local, state, national, and international levels in terms of the civic purposes achieved.
Key skills: Policy Evaluation, Decision ProceduresAnalyze how people use and challenge local, state, national, and international laws to address a variety of public issues.
Key skills: Legal Advocacy, Public IssuesEvaluate public policies in terms of intended and unintended outcomes, and related consequences.
Key skills: Policy Analysis, Consequence EvaluationAnalyze historical, contemporary, and emerging means of changing societies, promoting the common good, and protecting rights.
Key skills: Social Change, Common GoodAnalyze how incentives influence choices that may result in policies with a range of costs and benefits for different groups.
Key skills: Incentive Analysis, Cost-Benefit AnalysisUse marginal benefits and marginal costs to construct an argument for or against an approach or solution to an economic issue.
Key skills: Marginal Analysis, Economic ArgumentationAnalyze the ways in which incentives influence what is produced and distributed in a market system.
Key skills: Market Dynamics, IncentivesEvaluate the extent to which competition among sellers and among buyers exists in specific markets.
Key skills: Market Competition, Economic EvaluationDescribe the consequences of competition in specific markets.
Key skills: Competition Effects, Market AnalysisGenerate possible explanations for a government role in markets when market inefficiencies exist.
Key skills: Market Inefficiency, Government RoleUse benefits and costs to evaluate the effectiveness of government policies to improve market outcomes.
Key skills: Policy Effectiveness, Economic EvaluationDescribe the possible consequences, both intended and unintended, of government policies to improve market outcomes.
Key skills: Policy Consequences, Economic OutcomesDescribe the roles of institutions such as clearly defined property rights and the rule of law in a market economy.
Key skills: Economic Institutions, Rule of LawUse current data to explain the influence of changes in spending, production, and the money supply on various economic conditions.
Key skills: Data Analysis, MacroeconomicsUse economic indicators to analyze the current and future state of the economy.
Key skills: Economic Indicators, ForecastingEvaluate the selection of monetary and fiscal policies in a variety of economic conditions.
Key skills: Monetary Policy, Fiscal PolicyExplain why advancements in technology and investments in capital goods and human capital increase economic growth and standards of living.
Key skills: Economic Growth, Human CapitalAnalyze the role of comparative advantage in international trade of goods and services.
Key skills: Comparative Advantage, International TradeExplain how current globalization trends and policies affect economic growth, labor markets, rights of citizens, and resource distribution in different nations.
Key skills: Globalization, Global EconomyUse geospatial and related technologies to create maps to display and explain the spatial patterns of cultural and environmental characteristics.
Key skills: Geospatial Tech, MappingUse maps, satellite images, photographs, and other representations to explain relationships between the locations of places and regions and their dynamics.
Key skills: Spatial Analysis, Visual RepresentationUse geographic data to analyze variations in the spatial patterns of cultural and environmental characteristics at multiple scales.
Key skills: Data Analysis, Spatial PatternsAnalyze relationships and interactions within and between human and physical systems to explain reciprocal influences that occur among them.
Key skills: Human-Physical Interaction, Systems ThinkingEvaluate how political and economic decisions throughout time have influenced cultural and environmental characteristics of various places and regions.
Key skills: Regional Analysis, Decision ImpactEvaluate the impact of human settlement activities on the environmental and cultural characteristics of specific places and regions.
Key skills: Settlement Impact, Environmental GeographyAnalyze the reciprocal nature of how historical events and the spatial diffusion of ideas and technologies have influenced migration and population distribution.
Key skills: Migration Patterns, Spatial DiffusionEvaluate the impact of economic activities and political decisions on spatial patterns within and among urban, suburban, and rural regions.
Key skills: Urban Geography, Economic ImpactEvaluate the influence of long-term climate variability and change on human systems and ecosystems.
Key skills: Climate Change, Ecosystem AnalysisEvaluate how changes in the environmental and cultural characteristics of a place or region influence trade and other connections with other places.
Key skills: Global Connections, Regional ChangeEvaluate how economic globalization and the expanding use of scarce resources contribute to conflict and cooperation within and among countries.
Key skills: Resource Scarcity, Conflict/CooperationEvaluate the consequences of human-made and natural catastrophes on global trade, politics, and human migration.
Key skills: Catastrophe Analysis, Global ImpactEvaluate how historical events and developments were shaped by unique circumstances of time and place as well as broader historical contexts.
Key skills: Contextualization, Historical EvaluationAnalyze change and continuity in historical eras.
Key skills: Change/Continuity, Era AnalysisUse questions generated about individuals and groups to assess how the significance of their actions changes over time and is shaped by the historical context.
Key skills: Historical Significance, Contextual AnalysisAnalyze complex and interacting factors that influenced the perspectives of people during different historical eras.
Key skills: Perspective Analysis, CausationAnalyze how historical contexts shaped and continue to shape people’s perspectives.
Key skills: Historical Context, PerspectiveAnalyze the ways in which the perspectives of those writing history shaped the history that they produced.
Key skills: Historiography, Bias AnalysisExplain how the perspectives of people in the present shape interpretations of the past.
Key skills: Interpretation, PresentismAnalyze how current interpretations of the past are limited by the extent to which available historical sources represent perspectives of people at the time.
Key skills: Source Limitations, InterpretationAnalyze the relationship between historical sources and the secondary interpretations made from them.
Key skills: Source Analysis, Secondary InterpretationDetect possible limitations in various kinds of historical evidence and differing secondary interpretations.
Key skills: Evidence Evaluation, Critical ThinkingCritique the usefulness of historical sources for a specific historical inquiry based on their maker, date, place of origin, intended audience, and purpose.
Key skills: Source Criticism, InquiryUse questions generated about multiple historical sources to pursue further inquiry and investigate additional sources.
Key skills: Inquiry Pursuit, Source InvestigationCritique the appropriateness of the historical sources used in a secondary interpretation.
Key skills: Interpretive Critique, Source UseAnalyze multiple and complex causes and effects of events in the past.
Key skills: Causation, Complex AnalysisDistinguish between long-term causes and triggering events in developing a historical argument.
Key skills: Argumentation, Causal AnalysisIntegrate evidence from multiple relevant historical sources and interpretations into a reasoned argument about the past.
Key skills: Evidence Integration, Historical ArgumentCritique the central arguments in secondary works of history on related topics in multiple media in terms of their historical accuracy.
Key skills: Argument Critique, Historical AccuracyGather relevant information from multiple sources representing a wide range of views while using the origin, authority, and context to guide the selection.
Key skills: Information Gathering, Source SelectionEvaluate the credibility of a source by examining how experts value the source.
Key skills: Credibility Evaluation, Expert ReviewIdentify evidence that draws information directly and substantively from multiple sources to detect inconsistencies in order to revise or strengthen claims.
Key skills: Evidence Identification, Claim RevisionRefine claims and counterclaims attending to precision, significance, and knowledge conveyed through the claim while pointing out strengths and limitations.
Key skills: Claim Refinement, CounterclaimsConstruct arguments using precise and knowledgeable claims, with evidence from multiple sources, while acknowledging counterclaims and evidentiary weaknesses.
Key skills: Argument Construction, Evidence UseConstruct explanations using sound reasoning, correct sequence, examples, and details with significant information, while acknowledging strengths and weaknesses.
Key skills: Explanation Construction, Logical ReasoningPresent adaptations of arguments and explanations that feature evocative ideas and perspectives to reach a range of audiences using various technologies.
Key skills: Presentation, AdaptationCritique the use of claims and evidence in arguments for credibility.
Key skills: Argument Critique, CredibilityCritique the use of the reasoning, sequencing, and supporting details of explanations.
Key skills: Explanation Critique, Structural AnalysisUse disciplinary and interdisciplinary lenses to understand the characteristics and causes of local, regional, and global problems.
Key skills: Problem Analysis, Interdisciplinary ThinkingAssess options for individual and collective action to address local, regional, and global problems by engaging in self-reflection and strategy identification.
Key skills: Action Assessment, Strategy IdentificationApply a range of deliberative and democratic strategies and procedures to make decisions and take action in their classrooms, schools, and civic contexts.
Key skills: Civic Action, Democratic StrategyStandards are adopted at the state level but implemented through local district curricula. The Common Core (Math/ELA) and NGSS (Science) provide performance expectations, while the C3 Framework provides an 'Inquiry Arc' for social studies. Teachers use these as benchmarks to design daily lessons and select instructional materials.
Student progress is typically measured through state-mandated standardized tests (e.g., Smarter Balanced, PARCC, or custom state assessments). These assessments are designed to test the depth of understanding and the ability to apply skills to new contexts rather than simple rote memorization.
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