ALEX Resources

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (10) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (10) 4 :

4. Interpret an author's use of characterization, connotation, denotation, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning in a variety of texts.

[ELA2021] (9) 4 :

4. Analyze how authors use characterization, connotation, denotation, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning in a variety of texts.

[ELA2021] (10) 4 :

4. Interpret an author's use of characterization, connotation, denotation, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning in a variety of texts.

[ELA2021] (9) 9 :

9. Compose both short and extended narrative, informative/explanatory, and argumentative writings that are clear and coherent, use an appropriate command of language, and demonstrate development, organization, style, and tone that are relevant to task, purpose, and audience.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Write a memoir, narrative essay, or personal or fictional narrative to convey a series of events, establishing a clear purpose and using narrative techniques.

Examples: dialogue, pacing, description, reflection

b. Write explanations and expositions that incorporate evidence, using transitions and techniques that objectively introduce and develop topics.

Examples: relevant and sufficient facts, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning, relevant and sufficient evidence, transitions, and a concluding statement or section that follows from the information presented.

[ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (9) 4 :

4. Analyze how authors use characterization, connotation, denotation, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning in a variety of texts.

[ELA2021] (9) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (10) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) 9 :

9. Compose both short and extended narrative, informative/explanatory, and argumentative writings that are clear and coherent, use an appropriate command of language, and demonstrate development, organization, style, and tone that are relevant to task, purpose, and audience.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Write a memoir, narrative essay, or personal or fictional narrative to convey a series of events, establishing a clear purpose, using narrative techniques, and sequencing events coherently.

Examples: dialogue, pacing, description, reflection; chronological order, reverse chronological order, flashbacks

b. Write explanations and expositions that incorporate relevant evidence, using effective transitions that objectively introduce and develop topics.

Examples: specific facts, examples, details, statistics/data, examples appropriate to the audience's knowledge of the topic

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning, relevant and sufficient evidence, appropriate transitions, and a concluding section that follows from and supports the information presented.

In this second half of a two-part lesson, students will identify and explain the plot development of a class text, generate their reflections and original ideas, and participate in a discussion regarding how events interact and shape character, mood, tone, and conflict.

This is a College- and Career-Ready Standards showcase lesson plan.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (9) 5 :

5. Analyze the impact of context and organizational structures on theme, tone, and the meaning of the work as a whole.

[ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (9) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (10) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (10) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) 5 :

5. Analyze context and organizational structures to determine theme, tone, and the meaning of the work as a whole.

Students will delve into discussion and writing about plot development, including generating their own reflections, original ideas, and influences on how events interact and shape character, mood, tone, and conflict.

This is a College- and Career-Ready Standards showcase lesson plan.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (6) 11 :

11. Utilize written, visual, digital, and interactive texts to generate and answer literal, interpretive, and applied questions.

[DLIT] (6) 1 :

R1) Identify, demonstrate, and apply personal safe use of digital devices.

[DLIT] (8) 1 :

R1) Identify, demonstrate, and apply personal safe use of digital devices.

[ELA2021] (6) -6 :

R1. Utilize active listening skills during discussion and conversation in pairs, small groups, or whole-class settings, following agreed-upon rules for participation.

[HE] (6) 1 :

6.1.1) Describe the interrelationship between social and emotional health in adolescence.

a. . Identify how positive relationships can enhance each dimension of health.

b. Explain how stress can affect personal health.

[DLIT] (7) 1 :

R1) Identify, demonstrate, and apply personal safe use of digital devices.

[DLIT] (7) 20 :

14) Discuss current events related to emerging technologies in computing and the effects such events have on individuals and the global society.

[ELA2021] (7) 11 :

11. Compare and contrast the effectiveness of techniques used in a variety of digital sources to generate and answer literal, interpretive, and applied questions and create new understandings.

[ELA2021] (7) -6 :

R1. Utilize active listening skills during discussion and conversation in pairs, small groups, or whole-class settings, following agreed-upon rules for participation.

[HE] (7) 1 :

7.1.1) Summarize the interrelationship of emotional, social, and physical health.

a. Determine how peers may affect the six dimensions of health.

b. Illustrate how changing family dynamics can affect health.

Examples: divorce, relocating, death

[DLIT] (8) 20 :

14) Analyze current events related to computing and their effects on education, the workplace, individuals, communities, and global society.

[ELA2021] (8) 25 :

25. Produce research writings independently over extended periods of time which encompass research, reflection, and revision and over shorter time frames.

Examples: a day or two, a single sitting

[ELA2021] (8) -6 :

R1. Utilize active listening skills during discussion and conversation in pairs, small groups, or whole-class settings, following agreed-upon rules for participation.

[HE] (8) 1 :

8.1.1) Explain how emotional, intellectual, physical, spiritual, mental, and social health affect each other.

a. Determine how social influences can affect physical health.

b. Describe how risky health behaviors affect the emotional, physical, and social health of adolescents.

[HE] (8) 8 :

8.2.3) Analyze the influences of technology on personal and family health.

Examples: screen time, video game addictions, activity trackers, diabetes monitor, heart monitor, fitness assessment tools

[DLIT] (9-12) 1 :

R1) Identify, demonstrate, and apply personal safe use of digital devices.

[DLIT] (9-12) 17 :

11) Model and demonstrate behaviors that are safe, legal, and ethical while living, learning, and working in an interconnected digital world.

a. Recognize user tracking methods and hazards.

Examples: Cookies, WiFi packet sniffing.

b. Understand how to apply techniques to mitigate effects of user tracking methods.

c. Understand the ramifications of end-user license agreements and terms of service associated with granting rights to personal data and media to other entities.

d. Explain the relationship between online privacy and personal security.

Examples: Convenience and accessibility, data mining, digital marketing, online wallets, theft of personal information.

e. Identify physical, legal, and ethical consequences of inappropriate digital behaviors.

Examples: Cyberbullying/harassment, inappropriate sexual communications.

f. Explain strategies to lessen the impact of negative digital behaviors and assess when to apply them.

[ELA2021] (9) 24 :

24. Utilize responsible and ethical research practices to write clear, coherent products with a command of language suitable for a particular target audience and purpose.

[ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) 24 :

24. Utilize responsible and ethical research practices to write clear, coherent products with a command of language suitable for a particular target audience and purpose.

[ELA2021] (10) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (11) 24 :

24. Evaluate the credibility of sources in terms of authority, relevance, accuracy, and purpose.

a. Assess the usefulness of written information to answer a research question, solve a problem, or take a position.

[ELA2021] (11) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (12) 24 :

24. Evaluate the credibility of sources in terms of authority, relevance, accuracy, and purpose.

a. Assess the usefulness of written information to answer a research question, solve a problem, or take a position.

[ELA2021] (12) -3 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[HE] HED (9-12) 2 :

HE.1.2) Describe the interrelationships of emotional, mental, physical, social, spiritual, and environmental health.

a. Identify symptoms and methods of treatment of mental health disorders, including depression, and stress.

b. Identify warning signs and prevention strategies for suicide.

[HE] HED (9-12) 9 :

HE.2.2) Describe the pros and cons of the use of technology as it affects personal, family, and community health.

Examples: positive and negative influences on self-esteem, addiction to technology, personal interactions and relationships

[HUM] ED07 (9-12) 2 :

2 ) Analyze cultural influences on health behaviors, including social norms, laws and regulations, family traditions, and stereotypes that impact the health and wellness of individuals and families.

Examples: knowledge, attitude, and beliefs related to family eating habits; Alabama's graduated driver license to promote safe driving

[HUM] ED07 (9-12) 4 :

4 ) Evaluate positive and negative impacts of technology on health.

Examples: positive—improved diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and disorders

-  negative—decreased level of health-enhancing physical activity, inflationary expense of health care services

[HUM] ED07 (9-12) 9 :

9 ) Analyze the relationship of dimensions of health and wellness, including emotional, intellectual, physical, social, environmental, and spiritual factors that impact the health and wellness of individuals and families.

•  Applying decision-making strategies to achieve and improve personal health goals

Example: participating regularly in physical activity, avoiding sexual risk-taking, preventing abuse, practicing water safety, operating motor vehicles safely

[HUM] ED08 (9-12) 18 :

18 ) Assess ways technology impacts individuals and families throughout the life cycle.

Students will be introduced to five negative consequences of a poor "digital device diet." The teacher will lead students in utilizing the jigsaw literacy strategy, in which students will become members of a home group and an expert group as they research and discuss their assigned topic. The activity will culminate with students creating a presentation in the form of a research paper, poster, or slideshow to demonstrate their knowledge of the five consequences of a poor digital diet and their effect on all aspects of health. 

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (6) -2 :

R5. Assess the formality of occasions in order to speak or write using appropriate language and tone.

[ELA2021] (6) -1 :

R6. Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.

[ELA2021] (7) -2 :

R5. Assess the formality of occasions in order to speak or write using appropriate language and tone.

[ELA2021] (7) -1 :

R6. Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.

[ELA2021] (8) -2 :

R5. Assess the formality of occasions in order to speak or write using appropriate language and tone.

[ELA2021] (8) -1 :

R6. Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.

[ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (11) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (12) -3 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

A customer service representative explains how the language you use in an email to customers may be different from the language you use in messages to coworkers or friends. This resource provides instruction and practice in crafting appropriate emails and workplace documents. 

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (11) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (12) -3 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

Discover why the crucial factor that can determine whether your next workplace interaction goes well isn’t what you say, but how you listen, in this video from the Career Hacks collection. Host Camille talks with two professionals and learns what not to do in her next interview. She also learns simple things she can do to show respect to anyone she talks with and truly hear what they’re saying. This resource provides instruction and discussion on active listening skills.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (9) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (9) -3 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (9) 9 :

9. Compose both short and extended narrative, informative/explanatory, and argumentative writings that are clear and coherent, use an appropriate command of language, and demonstrate development, organization, style, and tone that are relevant to task, purpose, and audience.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Write a memoir, narrative essay, or personal or fictional narrative to convey a series of events, establishing a clear purpose and using narrative techniques.

Examples: dialogue, pacing, description, reflection

b. Write explanations and expositions that incorporate evidence, using transitions and techniques that objectively introduce and develop topics.

Examples: relevant and sufficient facts, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning, relevant and sufficient evidence, transitions, and a concluding statement or section that follows from the information presented.

[ELA2021] (9) 11 :

11. Participate in collaborative discussions involving multiple perspectives, responding and contributing with relevant evidence and commentary.

[ELA2021] (10) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (10) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) -3 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (10) 9 :

9. Compose both short and extended narrative, informative/explanatory, and argumentative writings that are clear and coherent, use an appropriate command of language, and demonstrate development, organization, style, and tone that are relevant to task, purpose, and audience.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Write a memoir, narrative essay, or personal or fictional narrative to convey a series of events, establishing a clear purpose, using narrative techniques, and sequencing events coherently.

Examples: dialogue, pacing, description, reflection; chronological order, reverse chronological order, flashbacks

b. Write explanations and expositions that incorporate relevant evidence, using effective transitions that objectively introduce and develop topics.

Examples: specific facts, examples, details, statistics/data, examples appropriate to the audience's knowledge of the topic

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning, relevant and sufficient evidence, appropriate transitions, and a concluding section that follows from and supports the information presented.

[ELA2021] (10) 11 :

11. Participate in collaborative discussions involving multiple perspectives, responding and contributing with relevant evidence and commentary.

[ELA2021] (11) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (11) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (11) -3 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (11) 11 :

11. Compose and edit both short and extended products in which the development and organization are relevant and suitable to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Incorporate narrative techniques in other modes of writing as appropriate.

Examples: flashback, anecdote, foreshadowing, story-telling, sensory details, character development

b. Write explanations and expositions that examine and convey complex ideas or processes effectively, develop the topic utilizing and citing credible sources of information or data when relevant, use intentional transitions, choose precise vocabulary, and maintain an organized structure.

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning supported by relevant and sufficient evidence, making rhetorical choices that convey a specific tone or style, including intentional transitions, and providing a logical conclusion that captures the larger implications of the topic or text.

[ELA2021] (11) 14 :

14. Participate in collaborative discussions involving multiple cultural and literary perspectives, responding to, contributing to, building upon, and questioning the ideas of others with relevant, appropriate evidence and commentary.

[ELA2021] (12) -2 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (12) -3 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (12) -5 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (12) 11 :

11. Compose, edit, and revise both short and extended products in which the development, organization, and style are relevant and suitable to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Incorporate narrative techniques into other modes of writing as appropriate.

Examples: flashback, anecdote, foreshadowing, story-telling, sensory details, character development

b. Write explanations and expositions that examine and convey complex ideas or processes effectively, develop the topic utilizing and citing credible sources of information or data when relevant, use intentional transitions, choose precise vocabulary, and maintain an organized structure and style.

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence, making intentional rhetorical choices to convey a specific tone or style, including intentional transitions, and providing a logical conclusion that captures the larger implications of the topic or text.

[ELA2021] (12) 14 :

14. Actively engage in collaborative discussions about topics and texts, expressing their own ideas by respectfully contributing to, building upon, and questioning the ideas of others in pairs, diverse groups, and whole class settings.

After reading Richard Wright's short novel Rite of Passage, students will demonstrate their understanding of plot, character, and conflict by writing recommendations for the protagonists' future to a juvenile court system judge. Students are guided through the development of these recommendations, including attention to counterarguments based on potential prevailing attitudes in the justice system at the time.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (9) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (9) 4 :

4. Analyze how authors use characterization, connotation, denotation, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning in a variety of texts.

[ELA2021] (9) 5 :

5. Analyze the impact of context and organizational structures on theme, tone, and the meaning of the work as a whole.

[ELA2021] (10) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (10) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) 4 :

4. Interpret an author's use of characterization, connotation, denotation, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning in a variety of texts.

[ELA2021] (10) 5 :

5. Analyze context and organizational structures to determine theme, tone, and the meaning of the work as a whole.

[ELA2021] (11) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (11) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (11) 4 :

4. Analyze how an author uses characterization, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning.

[ELA2021] (11) 6 :

6. Analyze a text's explicit and implicit meanings to make inferences about its theme and determine the author's purpose.

[ELA2021] (12) -2 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (12) -3 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (12) 4 :

4. Evaluate an author's use of characterization, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning.

[ELA2021] (12) 6 :

6. Analyze a text's explicit and implicit meanings to make inferences about its theme and determine the author's purpose.

This lesson invites students to explore the things relevant to a character from Lorraine Hansberry's play A Raisin in the Sun, such as Mama's plant, to unlock the drama's underlying symbolism and themes. Students explore character traits and participate in active learning as they work with the play. Students use an interactive drama map to explore characters and conflict and then write and share character-item poems.

See this updated link for the drama map.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (9) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (9) 3 :

3. Analyze how an author's cultural perspective influences style, language, and themes.

[ELA2021] (9) 4 :

4. Analyze how authors use characterization, connotation, denotation, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning in a variety of texts.

[ELA2021] (9) 11 :

11. Participate in collaborative discussions involving multiple perspectives, responding and contributing with relevant evidence and commentary.

[ELA2021] (9) 23 :

23. Use audio sources to obtain useful and credible information to answer a question, solve a problem, or defend a position.

[ELA2021] (10) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (10) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) 3 :

3. Analyze how an author's cultural perspective influences style, language, and themes.

[ELA2021] (10) 4 :

4. Interpret an author's use of characterization, connotation, denotation, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning in a variety of texts.

[ELA2021] (10) 11 :

11. Participate in collaborative discussions involving multiple perspectives, responding and contributing with relevant evidence and commentary.

[ELA2021] (10) 23 :

23. Use audio sources to obtain useful and credible information to answer a question, solve a problem, or defend a position.

[ELA2021] (11) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (11) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (11) 1 :

1. Read, analyze, and evaluate complex literary and informational texts written from various points of view and cultural perspectives, with an emphasis on works of American literature.

[ELA2021] (11) 3 :

3. Analyze how an author explicitly exhibits his/her cultural perspective in developing style and meaning.

[ELA2021] (11) 4 :

4. Analyze how an author uses characterization, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning.

[ELA2021] (11) 14 :

14. Participate in collaborative discussions involving multiple cultural and literary perspectives, responding to, contributing to, building upon, and questioning the ideas of others with relevant, appropriate evidence and commentary.

[ELA2021] (11) 26 :

26. Locate and acquire audible information to answer a question, solve a problem, or defend a position, utilizing active listening to assess its usefulness, relevance, and credibility.

[ELA2021] (12) -2 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (12) -3 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (12) 3 :

3. Evaluate how an author explicitly exhibits his/her cultural perspective in developing style and meaning.

[ELA2021] (12) 4 :

4. Evaluate an author's use of characterization, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning.

[ELA2021] (12) 14 :

14. Actively engage in collaborative discussions about topics and texts, expressing their own ideas by respectfully contributing to, building upon, and questioning the ideas of others in pairs, diverse groups, and whole class settings.

[ELA2021] (12) 26 :

26. Locate and acquire audible information to answer a question, solve a problem, or defend a position, utilizing active listening to assess its usefulness, relevance, and credibility.

After a brief introduction to the transcendentalist movement of the 1800s, students develop a working definition of transcendentalism by answering and discussing a series of questions about their own individualism and relationship to nature. Over the next few sessions, students read and discuss excerpts from Emerson's “Nature” and “Self-Reliance” and Thoreau's Walden. They use a graphic organizer to summarize the characteristics of transcendental thought as they read. Students then examine modern comic strips and songs to find evidence of transcendental thought. They gather additional examples on their own to share with the class. Finally, students complete the chart showing specific examples of transcendental thought from a variety of multimodal genres.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (9) 4 :

4. Analyze how authors use characterization, connotation, denotation, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning in a variety of texts.

[ELA2021] (9) 5 :

5. Analyze the impact of context and organizational structures on theme, tone, and the meaning of the work as a whole.

[ELA2021] (9) 9 :

9. Compose both short and extended narrative, informative/explanatory, and argumentative writings that are clear and coherent, use an appropriate command of language, and demonstrate development, organization, style, and tone that are relevant to task, purpose, and audience.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Write a memoir, narrative essay, or personal or fictional narrative to convey a series of events, establishing a clear purpose and using narrative techniques.

Examples: dialogue, pacing, description, reflection

b. Write explanations and expositions that incorporate evidence, using transitions and techniques that objectively introduce and develop topics.

Examples: relevant and sufficient facts, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning, relevant and sufficient evidence, transitions, and a concluding statement or section that follows from the information presented.

[ELA2021] (10) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) 4 :

4. Interpret an author's use of characterization, connotation, denotation, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning in a variety of texts.

[ELA2021] (10) 5 :

5. Analyze context and organizational structures to determine theme, tone, and the meaning of the work as a whole.

[ELA2021] (10) 9 :

9. Compose both short and extended narrative, informative/explanatory, and argumentative writings that are clear and coherent, use an appropriate command of language, and demonstrate development, organization, style, and tone that are relevant to task, purpose, and audience.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Write a memoir, narrative essay, or personal or fictional narrative to convey a series of events, establishing a clear purpose, using narrative techniques, and sequencing events coherently.

Examples: dialogue, pacing, description, reflection; chronological order, reverse chronological order, flashbacks

b. Write explanations and expositions that incorporate relevant evidence, using effective transitions that objectively introduce and develop topics.

Examples: specific facts, examples, details, statistics/data, examples appropriate to the audience's knowledge of the topic

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning, relevant and sufficient evidence, appropriate transitions, and a concluding section that follows from and supports the information presented.

[ELA2021] (11) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (11) 4 :

4. Analyze how an author uses characterization, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning.

[ELA2021] (11) 5 :

5. Evaluate structural and organizational details in literary, nonfiction/informational, digital, and multimodal texts to determine how genre supports the author's purpose.

[ELA2021] (11) 11 :

11. Compose and edit both short and extended products in which the development and organization are relevant and suitable to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Incorporate narrative techniques in other modes of writing as appropriate.

Examples: flashback, anecdote, foreshadowing, story-telling, sensory details, character development

b. Write explanations and expositions that examine and convey complex ideas or processes effectively, develop the topic utilizing and citing credible sources of information or data when relevant, use intentional transitions, choose precise vocabulary, and maintain an organized structure.

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning supported by relevant and sufficient evidence, making rhetorical choices that convey a specific tone or style, including intentional transitions, and providing a logical conclusion that captures the larger implications of the topic or text.

[ELA2021] (12) -3 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (12) 4 :

4. Evaluate an author's use of characterization, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning.

[ELA2021] (12) 5 :

5. Evaluate structural and organizational details in texts to determine the author's purpose, including cases in which the meaning is ironic or satirical.

[ELA2021] (12) 11 :

11. Compose, edit, and revise both short and extended products in which the development, organization, and style are relevant and suitable to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Incorporate narrative techniques into other modes of writing as appropriate.

Examples: flashback, anecdote, foreshadowing, story-telling, sensory details, character development

b. Write explanations and expositions that examine and convey complex ideas or processes effectively, develop the topic utilizing and citing credible sources of information or data when relevant, use intentional transitions, choose precise vocabulary, and maintain an organized structure and style.

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence, making intentional rhetorical choices to convey a specific tone or style, including intentional transitions, and providing a logical conclusion that captures the larger implications of the topic or text.

How would the story have changed if Romeo had received the letter? This lesson encourages students to pick a turning point in a tragedy and show how the action of the play would have been significantly altered had a different decision been made or a different action taken. Students use a graphic organizer to analyze the plot of the play. They identify a turning point in the play, alter the decision that the characters make, and predict the characters' actions throughout the rest of the play. Students create a plot outline of their altered play and present their new stories to the class. Teachers can test students' content knowledge and understanding of conflicts within the play while also challenging their creativity and their understanding of the plot. This lesson focuses on Shakespearean tragedy, but it can be used with any tragedy that students have read or as a book report alternative.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (9) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (10) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) 4 :

4. Interpret an author's use of characterization, connotation, denotation, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning in a variety of texts.

[ELA2021] (10) 5 :

5. Analyze context and organizational structures to determine theme, tone, and the meaning of the work as a whole.

[ELA2021] (11) 1 :

1. Read, analyze, and evaluate complex literary and informational texts written from various points of view and cultural perspectives, with an emphasis on works of American literature.

[ELA2021] (12) 6 :

6. Analyze a text's explicit and implicit meanings to make inferences about its theme and determine the author's purpose.

Francis Cugat's 1925 cover art for The Great Gatsby and The View of Toledo by El Greco, mentioned in the final pages of the novel, are the focus of pre-reading and post-reading activities in this lesson plan. Before reading the novel, students tap visual literacy skills as they analyze the artwork commissioned for the novel's cover. Based on their analysis, students make predictions about the plot and imagery of the novel. After completing their reading, students revisit the visual imagery and artwork and discuss how their interpretations have changed. Next, students explore allusion by analyzing an El Greco painting alluded to in the novel and discussing what the allusion means. Finally, students conclude their study by selecting images and designing their own cover for the novel.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (9) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (9) 9 :

9. Compose both short and extended narrative, informative/explanatory, and argumentative writings that are clear and coherent, use an appropriate command of language, and demonstrate development, organization, style, and tone that are relevant to task, purpose, and audience.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Write a memoir, narrative essay, or personal or fictional narrative to convey a series of events, establishing a clear purpose and using narrative techniques.

Examples: dialogue, pacing, description, reflection

b. Write explanations and expositions that incorporate evidence, using transitions and techniques that objectively introduce and develop topics.

Examples: relevant and sufficient facts, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning, relevant and sufficient evidence, transitions, and a concluding statement or section that follows from the information presented.

[ELA2021] (9) 14 :

14. Create and edit digital texts that are suitable in purpose and tone for their intended audience and occasion.

[ELA2021] (10) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (10) 9 :

9. Compose both short and extended narrative, informative/explanatory, and argumentative writings that are clear and coherent, use an appropriate command of language, and demonstrate development, organization, style, and tone that are relevant to task, purpose, and audience.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Write a memoir, narrative essay, or personal or fictional narrative to convey a series of events, establishing a clear purpose, using narrative techniques, and sequencing events coherently.

Examples: dialogue, pacing, description, reflection; chronological order, reverse chronological order, flashbacks

b. Write explanations and expositions that incorporate relevant evidence, using effective transitions that objectively introduce and develop topics.

Examples: specific facts, examples, details, statistics/data, examples appropriate to the audience's knowledge of the topic

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning, relevant and sufficient evidence, appropriate transitions, and a concluding section that follows from and supports the information presented.

[ELA2021] (10) 14 :

14. Create and edit collaborative digital texts that are suitable in purpose and tone for their intended audience and occasion.

[ELA2021] (11) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (11) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (11) 11 :

11. Compose and edit both short and extended products in which the development and organization are relevant and suitable to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Incorporate narrative techniques in other modes of writing as appropriate.

Examples: flashback, anecdote, foreshadowing, story-telling, sensory details, character development

b. Write explanations and expositions that examine and convey complex ideas or processes effectively, develop the topic utilizing and citing credible sources of information or data when relevant, use intentional transitions, choose precise vocabulary, and maintain an organized structure.

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning supported by relevant and sufficient evidence, making rhetorical choices that convey a specific tone or style, including intentional transitions, and providing a logical conclusion that captures the larger implications of the topic or text.

[ELA2021] (12) -3 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (12) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (12) 11 :

11. Compose, edit, and revise both short and extended products in which the development, organization, and style are relevant and suitable to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Incorporate narrative techniques into other modes of writing as appropriate.

Examples: flashback, anecdote, foreshadowing, story-telling, sensory details, character development

b. Write explanations and expositions that examine and convey complex ideas or processes effectively, develop the topic utilizing and citing credible sources of information or data when relevant, use intentional transitions, choose precise vocabulary, and maintain an organized structure and style.

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence, making intentional rhetorical choices to convey a specific tone or style, including intentional transitions, and providing a logical conclusion that captures the larger implications of the topic or text.

[ELA2021] (12) 17 :

17. Use images, sound, animation, and other modes of expression to create or enhance individual or collaborative digital and multimodal texts that are suitable in purpose and tone for their intended audience and occasion.

In To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus explains to Scout that "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view...until you climb into his skin and walk around in it" (36). Make this advice more literal by inviting students to imagine spending a day in someone else's shoes in this writing activity. Students examine a variety of shoes and envision what the owner would look like, such as their appearance, actions, etc. They then write a narrative, telling the story of a day in the shoe owner's life. While this lesson plan uses the quotation from To Kill a Mockingbird as a springboard and ties nicely to discussions of the novel, it can be completed even if students are not currently reading the book.

The updated link for the Circle Plot Diagram can be found at https://www.readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/student-interactives/circle-plot-diagram.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (9) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (9) -3 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (9) 5 :

5. Analyze the impact of context and organizational structures on theme, tone, and the meaning of the work as a whole.

[ELA2021] (9) 8 :

8. Through active listening, evaluate tone, organization, content, and non-verbal cues to determine the purpose and credibility of a speaker.

[ELA2021] (9) 11 :

11. Participate in collaborative discussions involving multiple perspectives, responding and contributing with relevant evidence and commentary.

[ELA2021] (9) 18 :

18. Analyze a speaker's rhetorical, aesthetic, and organizational choices in order to determine point of view and purpose.

[ELA2021] (10) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (10) -3 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (10) 5 :

5. Analyze context and organizational structures to determine theme, tone, and the meaning of the work as a whole.

[ELA2021] (10) 8 :

8. Through active listening, evaluate tone, organization, content, and non-verbal cues to determine the purpose and credibility of a speaker.

[ELA2021] (10) 11 :

11. Participate in collaborative discussions involving multiple perspectives, responding and contributing with relevant evidence and commentary.

[ELA2021] (10) 15 :

15. Create and deliver an individual or collaborative presentation that is suitable in purpose and tone for its intended audience and occasion.

Examples: speaking to defend or explain a digital poster, multimedia presentation, or video in an area of interest related to college or career choices

[ELA2021] (10) 18 :

18. Analyze a speaker's rhetorical, aesthetic, and organizational choices in order to determine point of view and purpose.

Examples: Analyze Mahatma Gandhi's "Quit India" speech.
Analyze "The Appeal of 18 June" by Charles de Gaulle.

[ELA2021] (11) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (11) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (11) -3 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (11) 5 :

5. Evaluate structural and organizational details in literary, nonfiction/informational, digital, and multimodal texts to determine how genre supports the author's purpose.

[ELA2021] (11) 10 :

10. Through active listening, evaluate tone, organization, content, and non-verbal cues to determine the purpose and credibility of a speaker.

[ELA2021] (11) 12 :

12. Collaborate on writing tasks in diverse groups, making necessary compromises to accomplish a goal, sharing responsibility for collaborative work, and showing respect for the individual contributions of each group member.

[ELA2021] (11) 17 :

17. Use images, sound, animation, and other modes of expression to create or enhance individual or collaborative digital and multimodal texts that are suitable in purpose and tone for their intended audience and occasion.

[ELA2021] (11) 18 :

18. Create and deliver an oral presentation, created collaboratively from individual contributions, that is suitable in purpose and tone for its intended audience and occasion.

Examples: speaking to defend or explain a digital poster, multimedia presentation, or video in an area of interest related to college or career choices.

[ELA2021] (11) 21 :

21. Analyze a speaker's rhetorical, aesthetic, and organizational choices in order to determine point of view, purpose, and effectiveness.

[ELA2021] (12) -3 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (12) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (12) -5 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (12) 10 :

10. Determine through active listening the purpose, credibility, and effectiveness of a speaker or multiple sources of information by evaluating tone, organization, content, and verbal and non-verbal cues and identifying any fallacious reasoning or distorted evidence.

[ELA2021] (12) 14 :

14. Actively engage in collaborative discussions about topics and texts, expressing their own ideas by respectfully contributing to, building upon, and questioning the ideas of others in pairs, diverse groups, and whole class settings.

[ELA2021] (12) 16 :

16. Analyze elements of audible communications and evaluate their effectiveness in terms of subject, occasion, audience, purpose, tone, and credibility of digital sources.

Examples: words, music, sound effects

[ELA2021] (12) 17 :

17. Use images, sound, animation, and other modes of expression to create or enhance individual or collaborative digital and multimodal texts that are suitable in purpose and tone for their intended audience and occasion.

[ELA2021] (12) 18 :

18. Create and deliver an oral presentation, created collaboratively from individual contributions, that is suitable in purpose and tone for its intended audience and occasion.

Examples: speaking to defend or explain a digital poster, multimedia presentation, or video in an area of interest related to college or career choices

[ELA2021] (12) 21 :

21. Analyze a speaker's rhetorical, aesthetic, and organizational choices in order to determine point of view, purpose, and effectiveness.

Students will learn persuasive techniques used in advertising, specifically, pathos or emotion, logos or logic, and ethos or credibility/character. They will use this knowledge to analyze advertising in a variety of sources: print, television, and Web-based advertising. Students will also explore the concepts of demographics and marketing for a specific audience. The unit will culminate in the production of an advertisement in one of several various forms of media, intended for a specific demographic.

The updated link for the Comic Creator resource is https://www.readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/student-interactives/comic-creator.

The updated link for the Printing Press resource is https://www.readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/student-interactives/printing-press. 

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (9) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (9) 9 :

9. Compose both short and extended narrative, informative/explanatory, and argumentative writings that are clear and coherent, use an appropriate command of language, and demonstrate development, organization, style, and tone that are relevant to task, purpose, and audience.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Write a memoir, narrative essay, or personal or fictional narrative to convey a series of events, establishing a clear purpose and using narrative techniques.

Examples: dialogue, pacing, description, reflection

b. Write explanations and expositions that incorporate evidence, using transitions and techniques that objectively introduce and develop topics.

Examples: relevant and sufficient facts, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning, relevant and sufficient evidence, transitions, and a concluding statement or section that follows from the information presented.

[ELA2021] (9) 12 :

12. Interpret digital texts to determine their subject, occasion, audience, purpose, tone, and credibility.

[ELA2021] (9) 20 :

20. Adapt speech to purpose and audience in a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English conventions as indicated or appropriate.

[ELA2021] (9) 22 :

22. Use a variety of search tools and research strategies.

Examples: library databases, search engines; keyword search, boolean search

[ELA2021] (9) 24 :

24. Utilize responsible and ethical research practices to write clear, coherent products with a command of language suitable for a particular target audience and purpose.

[ELA2021] (10) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (10) 9 :

9. Compose both short and extended narrative, informative/explanatory, and argumentative writings that are clear and coherent, use an appropriate command of language, and demonstrate development, organization, style, and tone that are relevant to task, purpose, and audience.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Write a memoir, narrative essay, or personal or fictional narrative to convey a series of events, establishing a clear purpose, using narrative techniques, and sequencing events coherently.

Examples: dialogue, pacing, description, reflection; chronological order, reverse chronological order, flashbacks

b. Write explanations and expositions that incorporate relevant evidence, using effective transitions that objectively introduce and develop topics.

Examples: specific facts, examples, details, statistics/data, examples appropriate to the audience's knowledge of the topic

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning, relevant and sufficient evidence, appropriate transitions, and a concluding section that follows from and supports the information presented.

[ELA2021] (10) 12 :

12. Interpret digital texts to determine subject, occasion, audience, purpose, tone, and credibility.

[ELA2021] (10) 22 :

22. Use a variety of search tools and research strategies to locate credible sources.

Examples: library databases, search engines; keyword search, boolean search

[ELA2021] (10) 24 :

24. Utilize responsible and ethical research practices to write clear, coherent products with a command of language suitable for a particular target audience and purpose.

[ELA2021] (10) 27 :

27. Utilize responsible and ethical research practices to present clear, coherent products with a command of language suitable for a target audience and purpose.

[ELA2021] (11) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (11) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (11) 11 :

11. Compose and edit both short and extended products in which the development and organization are relevant and suitable to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Incorporate narrative techniques in other modes of writing as appropriate.

Examples: flashback, anecdote, foreshadowing, story-telling, sensory details, character development

b. Write explanations and expositions that examine and convey complex ideas or processes effectively, develop the topic utilizing and citing credible sources of information or data when relevant, use intentional transitions, choose precise vocabulary, and maintain an organized structure.

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning supported by relevant and sufficient evidence, making rhetorical choices that convey a specific tone or style, including intentional transitions, and providing a logical conclusion that captures the larger implications of the topic or text.

[ELA2021] (11) 15 :

15. Analyze digital texts and evaluate their effectiveness in terms of subject, occasion, audience, purpose, tone, and credibility.

[ELA2021] (11) 19 :

19. Interpret how an author's grammar and rhetorical style contribute to the meaning in both fiction, including poetry and prose, and nonfiction, including historical, business, informational, and workplace documents.

[ELA2021] (11) 22 :

22. Apply conventions of standard English grammar, mechanics, and usage, including appropriate formality of language, to communicate effectively with a target audience.

a. Exhibit stylistic complexity and sophistication in writing.

[ELA2021] (11) 25 :

25. Use a variety of search tools and research strategies to locate credible sources.

Examples: library databases, search engines; keyword search, boolean search

[ELA2021] (12) -3 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (12) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (12) 11 :

11. Compose, edit, and revise both short and extended products in which the development, organization, and style are relevant and suitable to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Incorporate narrative techniques into other modes of writing as appropriate.

Examples: flashback, anecdote, foreshadowing, story-telling, sensory details, character development

b. Write explanations and expositions that examine and convey complex ideas or processes effectively, develop the topic utilizing and citing credible sources of information or data when relevant, use intentional transitions, choose precise vocabulary, and maintain an organized structure and style.

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence, making intentional rhetorical choices to convey a specific tone or style, including intentional transitions, and providing a logical conclusion that captures the larger implications of the topic or text.

[ELA2021] (12) 15 :

15. Analyze digital texts and evaluate their effectiveness in terms of subject, occasion, audience, purpose, tone, and credibility.

[ELA2021] (12) 19 :

19. Interpret how an author's grammar and rhetorical style contribute to the meaning in both fiction, including poetry and prose, and nonfiction, including historical, business, informational, and workplace documents.

[ELA2021] (12) 22 :

22. Apply conventions of standard English grammar, mechanics, and usage, including appropriate formality of language, to communicate effectively with a target audience.

a. Exhibit stylistic complexity, sophistication, and consistency in writing.

[ELA2021] (12) 24 :

24. Evaluate the credibility of sources in terms of authority, relevance, accuracy, and purpose.

a. Assess the usefulness of written information to answer a research question, solve a problem, or take a position.

[ELA2021] (12) 25 :

25. Use a variety of search tools and research strategies to locate and acquire credible, relevant, and useful information.

Examples: library databases, search engines; keyword search, boolean search

Students prepare an already published scholarly article for presentation, with an emphasis on the identification of the author's thesis and argument structure, as well as an examination of source integration (the critic's engagement with primary and secondary source information). The class first analyzes a sample article of literary criticism and discusses how to annotate it for presentation. Each student then uses an online database to access an appropriate article of literary criticism connected to a work of literature they have already read as a class assignment. They then analyze the article and prepare the article for presentation by highlighting key elements of its structure and content. Finally, they present the article to their peers.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (9) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (9) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (9) -3 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (9) 4 :

4. Analyze how authors use characterization, connotation, denotation, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning in a variety of texts.

[ELA2021] (9) 6 :

6. Compare and/or contrast the perspectives in a variety of fiction, nonfiction, informational, digital, and multimodal texts produced from diverse historical, cultural, and global points of view, not limited to the grade-level literary focus.

[ELA2021] (9) 8 :

8. Through active listening, evaluate tone, organization, content, and non-verbal cues to determine the purpose and credibility of a speaker.

[ELA2021] (9) 9 :

9. Compose both short and extended narrative, informative/explanatory, and argumentative writings that are clear and coherent, use an appropriate command of language, and demonstrate development, organization, style, and tone that are relevant to task, purpose, and audience.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Write a memoir, narrative essay, or personal or fictional narrative to convey a series of events, establishing a clear purpose and using narrative techniques.

Examples: dialogue, pacing, description, reflection

b. Write explanations and expositions that incorporate evidence, using transitions and techniques that objectively introduce and develop topics.

Examples: relevant and sufficient facts, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning, relevant and sufficient evidence, transitions, and a concluding statement or section that follows from the information presented.

[ELA2021] (9) 18 :

18. Analyze a speaker's rhetorical, aesthetic, and organizational choices in order to determine point of view and purpose.

[ELA2021] (10) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (10) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (10) -3 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (10) 3 :

3. Analyze how an author's cultural perspective influences style, language, and themes.

[ELA2021] (10) 4 :

4. Interpret an author's use of characterization, connotation, denotation, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning in a variety of texts.

[ELA2021] (10) 6 :

6. Compare and/or contrast the perspectives in a variety of fiction, nonfiction, informational, digital, and multimodal texts produced from diverse historical, cultural, and global viewpoints, not limited to the grade-level literary focus.

[ELA2021] (10) 8 :

8. Through active listening, evaluate tone, organization, content, and non-verbal cues to determine the purpose and credibility of a speaker.

[ELA2021] (10) 9 :

9. Compose both short and extended narrative, informative/explanatory, and argumentative writings that are clear and coherent, use an appropriate command of language, and demonstrate development, organization, style, and tone that are relevant to task, purpose, and audience.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Write a memoir, narrative essay, or personal or fictional narrative to convey a series of events, establishing a clear purpose, using narrative techniques, and sequencing events coherently.

Examples: dialogue, pacing, description, reflection; chronological order, reverse chronological order, flashbacks

b. Write explanations and expositions that incorporate relevant evidence, using effective transitions that objectively introduce and develop topics.

Examples: specific facts, examples, details, statistics/data, examples appropriate to the audience's knowledge of the topic

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning, relevant and sufficient evidence, appropriate transitions, and a concluding section that follows from and supports the information presented.

[ELA2021] (10) 13 :

13. Interpret a digital audio source to determine subject, occasion, audience, purpose, tone, and credibility.

[ELA2021] (10) 18 :

18. Analyze a speaker's rhetorical, aesthetic, and organizational choices in order to determine point of view and purpose.

Examples: Analyze Mahatma Gandhi's "Quit India" speech.
Analyze "The Appeal of 18 June" by Charles de Gaulle.

[ELA2021] (11) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (11) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (11) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (11) -3 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (11) 1 :

1. Read, analyze, and evaluate complex literary and informational texts written from various points of view and cultural perspectives, with an emphasis on works of American literature.

[ELA2021] (11) 3 :

3. Analyze how an author explicitly exhibits his/her cultural perspective in developing style and meaning.

[ELA2021] (11) 6 :

6. Analyze a text's explicit and implicit meanings to make inferences about its theme and determine the author's purpose.

[ELA2021] (11) 7 :

7. Compare and/or contrast the perspectives in a variety of fiction, nonfiction, informational, digital, and multimodal texts produced from diverse historical, cultural, and global viewpoints, not limited to the grade level literary focus.

[ELA2021] (11) 10 :

10. Through active listening, evaluate tone, organization, content, and non-verbal cues to determine the purpose and credibility of a speaker.

[ELA2021] (11) 11 :

11. Compose and edit both short and extended products in which the development and organization are relevant and suitable to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Incorporate narrative techniques in other modes of writing as appropriate.

Examples: flashback, anecdote, foreshadowing, story-telling, sensory details, character development

b. Write explanations and expositions that examine and convey complex ideas or processes effectively, develop the topic utilizing and citing credible sources of information or data when relevant, use intentional transitions, choose precise vocabulary, and maintain an organized structure.

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning supported by relevant and sufficient evidence, making rhetorical choices that convey a specific tone or style, including intentional transitions, and providing a logical conclusion that captures the larger implications of the topic or text.

[ELA2021] (11) 21 :

21. Analyze a speaker's rhetorical, aesthetic, and organizational choices in order to determine point of view, purpose, and effectiveness.

[ELA2021] (12) -2 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (12) -3 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (12) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (12) -5 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (12) 3 :

3. Evaluate how an author explicitly exhibits his/her cultural perspective in developing style and meaning.

[ELA2021] (12) 4 :

4. Evaluate an author's use of characterization, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning.

[ELA2021] (12) 6 :

6. Analyze a text's explicit and implicit meanings to make inferences about its theme and determine the author's purpose.

[ELA2021] (12) 7 :

7. Compare and/or contrast the perspectives in a variety of fiction, nonfiction, informational, digital, and multimodal texts produced from diverse historical, cultural, and global viewpoints, not limited to the grade level literary focus.

[ELA2021] (12) 11 :

11. Compose, edit, and revise both short and extended products in which the development, organization, and style are relevant and suitable to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Incorporate narrative techniques into other modes of writing as appropriate.

Examples: flashback, anecdote, foreshadowing, story-telling, sensory details, character development

b. Write explanations and expositions that examine and convey complex ideas or processes effectively, develop the topic utilizing and citing credible sources of information or data when relevant, use intentional transitions, choose precise vocabulary, and maintain an organized structure and style.

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence, making intentional rhetorical choices to convey a specific tone or style, including intentional transitions, and providing a logical conclusion that captures the larger implications of the topic or text.

[ELA2021] (12) 16 :

16. Analyze elements of audible communications and evaluate their effectiveness in terms of subject, occasion, audience, purpose, tone, and credibility of digital sources.

Examples: words, music, sound effects

[ELA2021] (12) 21 :

21. Analyze a speaker's rhetorical, aesthetic, and organizational choices in order to determine point of view, purpose, and effectiveness.

In this lesson, students identify how the rapper, Common, and writer, Walter Dean Myers, reinterpret Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream of nonviolence in their own works. This lesson also aims to expose high school students to nonviolent options for conflict resolution. To activate prior knowledge, students will watch Martin Luther King Jr.'s “I Have a Dream” speech and read Doreen Rappaport's picture book, Martin's Big Words, and recall how he approached conflict. The students will connect Dr. King's answer to conflict resolution with Common's interpretation of nonviolence, as demonstrated in his song, “A Dream”. The students will also connect this dream of nonviolence to Walter Dean Myers's short story, “Monkeyman,” from the book 145^th Street. Students are assigned a particular homework task before reading the short story to encourage a text-based discussion on characterization and conflict. The students will be introduced to Dr. King's Six Principles of Nonviolence and compose a thesis essay as a final assessment.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (9) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (9) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (9) 10 :

10. Present research findings to a peer audience, either formally or informally, conveying credible, accurate information from multiple sources, including diverse media.

[ELA2021] (9) 27 :

27. Utilize responsible and ethical research practices to present clear, coherent products with a command of language suitable for a particular target audience and purpose.

[ELA2021] (10) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (10) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (10) 10 :

10. Present research findings to peers, either formally or informally, integrating credible, accurate information from multiple sources, including diverse media.

[ELA2021] (10) 27 :

27. Utilize responsible and ethical research practices to present clear, coherent products with a command of language suitable for a target audience and purpose.

[ELA2021] (11) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (11) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (11) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (11) 30 :

30. Synthesize research using responsible and ethical practices to create and orally present clear, coherent products demonstrating command of language that is suitable for the target audience and purpose.

[ELA2021] (12) -2 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (12) -3 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (12) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (12) 30 :

30. Synthesize research using responsible and ethical practices to create and orally present clear, coherent products demonstrating command of language that is suitable for the target audience and purpose.

The graphic novel Persepolis is set in Iran during the Islamic Revolution. Most students are unaware of the changes associated with the events during that time, but the repercussions of the revolution are still being felt throughout the world. Students in the United States, therefore, need to gain background information on Iran in order to appreciate more fully the experiences of Marjane, the main character of Persepolis. In this unit, students work in small groups to research a specific topic related to Iran, using a WebQuest to focus their research on relevant and reliable information. After the research is complete, students present their information to the class through a technology-enhanced presentation.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (9) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (9) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (9) -3 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (9) 4 :

4. Analyze how authors use characterization, connotation, denotation, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning in a variety of texts.

[ELA2021] (9) 18 :

18. Analyze a speaker's rhetorical, aesthetic, and organizational choices in order to determine point of view and purpose.

[ELA2021] (10) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (10) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (10) -3 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (10) 4 :

4. Interpret an author's use of characterization, connotation, denotation, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning in a variety of texts.

[ELA2021] (10) 18 :

18. Analyze a speaker's rhetorical, aesthetic, and organizational choices in order to determine point of view and purpose.

Examples: Analyze Mahatma Gandhi's "Quit India" speech.
Analyze "The Appeal of 18 June" by Charles de Gaulle.

[ELA2021] (10) 21 :

21. Locate and determine the usefulness of relevant and credible information to answer a question, solve a problem, or defend a position.

[ELA2021] (11) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (11) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (11) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (11) -3 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (11) 4 :

4. Analyze how an author uses characterization, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning.

[ELA2021] (11) 21 :

21. Analyze a speaker's rhetorical, aesthetic, and organizational choices in order to determine point of view, purpose, and effectiveness.

[ELA2021] (12) -2 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (12) -3 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (12) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (12) -5 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (12) 4 :

4. Evaluate an author's use of characterization, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning.

[ELA2021] (12) 21 :

21. Analyze a speaker's rhetorical, aesthetic, and organizational choices in order to determine point of view, purpose, and effectiveness.

In addition to developing background knowledge about allusions and the etymology of keywords, students use an online tool to examine the relationship between the speaker and his father in Robert Hayden's "Those Winter Sundays". Then students explore how the poet uses consonance, assonance, and alliteration to illustrate this complex relationship. Finally, students use the idea of a composed memory and their knowledge of sonic patterns to draft, revise, and share their own original text. 

The updated link for the BioCube resource is https://www.readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/student-interactives/cube. 

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (9) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (9) 6 :

6. Compare and/or contrast the perspectives in a variety of fiction, nonfiction, informational, digital, and multimodal texts produced from diverse historical, cultural, and global points of view, not limited to the grade-level literary focus.

[ELA2021] (9) 9 :

9. Compose both short and extended narrative, informative/explanatory, and argumentative writings that are clear and coherent, use an appropriate command of language, and demonstrate development, organization, style, and tone that are relevant to task, purpose, and audience.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Write a memoir, narrative essay, or personal or fictional narrative to convey a series of events, establishing a clear purpose and using narrative techniques.

Examples: dialogue, pacing, description, reflection

b. Write explanations and expositions that incorporate evidence, using transitions and techniques that objectively introduce and develop topics.

Examples: relevant and sufficient facts, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning, relevant and sufficient evidence, transitions, and a concluding statement or section that follows from the information presented.

[ELA2021] (10) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (10) -3 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (10) 6 :

6. Compare and/or contrast the perspectives in a variety of fiction, nonfiction, informational, digital, and multimodal texts produced from diverse historical, cultural, and global viewpoints, not limited to the grade-level literary focus.

[ELA2021] (10) 9 :

9. Compose both short and extended narrative, informative/explanatory, and argumentative writings that are clear and coherent, use an appropriate command of language, and demonstrate development, organization, style, and tone that are relevant to task, purpose, and audience.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Write a memoir, narrative essay, or personal or fictional narrative to convey a series of events, establishing a clear purpose, using narrative techniques, and sequencing events coherently.

Examples: dialogue, pacing, description, reflection; chronological order, reverse chronological order, flashbacks

b. Write explanations and expositions that incorporate relevant evidence, using effective transitions that objectively introduce and develop topics.

Examples: specific facts, examples, details, statistics/data, examples appropriate to the audience's knowledge of the topic

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning, relevant and sufficient evidence, appropriate transitions, and a concluding section that follows from and supports the information presented.

[ELA2021] (11) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (11) -3 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (11) 6 :

6. Analyze a text's explicit and implicit meanings to make inferences about its theme and determine the author's purpose.

[ELA2021] (11) 7 :

7. Compare and/or contrast the perspectives in a variety of fiction, nonfiction, informational, digital, and multimodal texts produced from diverse historical, cultural, and global viewpoints, not limited to the grade level literary focus.

[ELA2021] (11) 11 :

11. Compose and edit both short and extended products in which the development and organization are relevant and suitable to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

Examples: paragraphs, constructed responses, essays

a. Incorporate narrative techniques in other modes of writing as appropriate.

Examples: flashback, anecdote, foreshadowing, story-telling, sensory details, character development

b. Write explanations and expositions that examine and convey complex ideas or processes effectively, develop the topic utilizing and citing credible sources of information or data when relevant, use intentional transitions, choose precise vocabulary, and maintain an organized structure.

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning supported by relevant and sufficient evidence, making rhetorical choices that convey a specific tone or style, including intentional transitions, and providing a logical conclusion that captures the larger implications of the topic or text.

[ELA2021] (11) 12 :

12. Collaborate on writing tasks in diverse groups, making necessary compromises to accomplish a goal, sharing responsibility for collaborative work, and showing respect for the individual contributions of each group member.

[ELA2021] (12) -2 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (12) -3 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (12) 7 :

7. Compare and/or contrast the perspectives in a variety of fiction, nonfiction, informational, digital, and multimodal texts produced from diverse historical, cultural, and global viewpoints, not limited to the grade level literary focus.

[ELA2021] (12) 11 :

11. Compose, edit, and revise both short and extended products in which the development, organization, and style are relevant and suitable to task, purpose, and audience, using an appropriate command of language.

a. Incorporate narrative techniques into other modes of writing as appropriate.

Examples: flashback, anecdote, foreshadowing, story-telling, sensory details, character development

b. Write explanations and expositions that examine and convey complex ideas or processes effectively, develop the topic utilizing and citing credible sources of information or data when relevant, use intentional transitions, choose precise vocabulary, and maintain an organized structure and style.

c. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence, making intentional rhetorical choices to convey a specific tone or style, including intentional transitions, and providing a logical conclusion that captures the larger implications of the topic or text.

[ELA2021] (12) 12 :

12. Within diverse and collaborative writing groups, effectively and respectfully demonstrate a willingness to make necessary compromises to accomplish a goal, share responsibility for collaborative work, and consider contributions made by each group member.

In this six-lesson unit, students read, analyze, and discuss medieval English ballads and then list characteristics of the genre. Then, they emphasize the narrative characteristics of ballads by choosing a ballad to act out. Using the Venn diagram tool, students next compare medieval ballads with modern ones. After familiarizing themselves with ballad themes and forms, students work collaboratively to write their own original ballads, which they will perform in small groups. Finally, students engage in self-reflection on their group performances and on the literary characteristics of their ballads.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (9) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (9) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (9) 14 :

14. Create and edit digital texts that are suitable in purpose and tone for their intended audience and occasion.

[ELA2021] (10) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (10) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (10) 14 :

14. Create and edit collaborative digital texts that are suitable in purpose and tone for their intended audience and occasion.

[ELA2021] (11) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (11) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (11) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (11) 6 :

6. Analyze a text's explicit and implicit meanings to make inferences about its theme and determine the author's purpose.

[ELA2021] (11) 17 :

17. Use images, sound, animation, and other modes of expression to create or enhance individual or collaborative digital and multimodal texts that are suitable in purpose and tone for their intended audience and occasion.

[ELA2021] (12) -2 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (12) -3 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (12) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (12) 17 :

17. Use images, sound, animation, and other modes of expression to create or enhance individual or collaborative digital and multimodal texts that are suitable in purpose and tone for their intended audience and occasion.

Stereotyped images create false ideals that real people can't hope to live up to, foster low self-esteem for those who don't fit in, and restrict people's ideas. In this unit, students explore representations of race, class, ethnicity, and gender by analyzing comics over two weeks and then re-envisioning them with a "comic character makeover." This activity leads to greater awareness of stereotypes in the media and urges students to form more realistic visions of these images as they perform their makeovers.

An updated link to the Comic Creator website can be found here: https://www.readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/student-interactives/comic-creator. 

   View Standards     Standard(s): [ELA2021] (9) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (9) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (9) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (9) -3 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (9) 5 :

5. Analyze the impact of context and organizational structures on theme, tone, and the meaning of the work as a whole.

[ELA2021] (9) 14 :

14. Create and edit digital texts that are suitable in purpose and tone for their intended audience and occasion.

[ELA2021] (10) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (10) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (10) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (10) -3 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (10) 4 :

4. Interpret an author's use of characterization, connotation, denotation, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning in a variety of texts.

[ELA2021] (10) 14 :

14. Create and edit collaborative digital texts that are suitable in purpose and tone for their intended audience and occasion.

[ELA2021] (11) -6 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (11) -5 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (11) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (11) -3 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (11) 4 :

4. Analyze how an author uses characterization, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning.

[ELA2021] (11) 17 :

17. Use images, sound, animation, and other modes of expression to create or enhance individual or collaborative digital and multimodal texts that are suitable in purpose and tone for their intended audience and occasion.

[ELA2021] (11) 19 :

19. Interpret how an author's grammar and rhetorical style contribute to the meaning in both fiction, including poetry and prose, and nonfiction, including historical, business, informational, and workplace documents.

[ELA2021] (12) -2 :

R2. Read and comprehend a variety of literary texts to develop a literal and figurative understanding as appropriate to the type of text, purpose, and situation.

Examples: short and long prose texts, poetry, dramas

[ELA2021] (12) -3 :

R3. Utilize active listening skills in formal and informal conversations, following predetermined norms.

[ELA2021] (12) -4 :

R4. Use digital and electronic tools appropriately, safely, and ethically.

[ELA2021] (12) -5 :

R5. Utilize a writing process which includes planning, revising, editing/peer-editing, and rewriting to create a focused, organized, and coherent piece of writing for a specific purpose and audience.

[ELA2021] (12) 4 :

4. Evaluate an author's use of characterization, figurative language, literary elements, and point of view to create and convey meaning.

[ELA2021] (12) 17 :

17. Use images, sound, animation, and other modes of expression to create or enhance individual or collaborative digital and multimodal texts that are suitable in purpose and tone for their intended audience and occasion.

[ELA2021] (12) 19 :

19. Interpret how an author's grammar and rhetorical style contribute to the meaning in both fiction, including poetry and prose, and nonfiction, including historical, business, informational, and workplace documents.

This activity allows students to play with words and letters in an imaginative way. Students make the familiar strange by creating image pools of metaphor derived from a single letter in the alphabet. As a class, students look at a letter and brainstorm things that it looks like. They then flip the letter on its sides and upside down, brainstorming new images each time. Next, they brainstorm interesting words that start with that letter. They then put some of the words they brainstormed together as a poem. After creating the poem as a class, students write their own letter poems, using the same process. Students can use an online tool to publish their poems in a class book. As a group exercise, this activity builds community: everyone learns from each other. As an individual exercise, it builds confidence and allows everyone the chance to create an original chain of images. 

The updated link to the Alphabet Organizer resource can be found at https://www.readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/student-interactives/alphabet-organizer.