Standard: 1.SL.1c – Ask questions to clear up any confusion about the topics and texts under discussion.
Grade level: Grade 1
Subject: English Language Arts
Domain: Speaking & Listening
Teacher Overview
This standard focuses on developing students’ ability to ask questions to clarify their understanding of topics and texts. It is crucial as it encourages active participation in discussions and helps students become more engaged and thoughtful learners. Students should be able to listen carefully and understand basic questions and answers. Familiarity with classroom discussions and seeking help when confused is also essential.
Mastering this standard will enable students to engage more deeply in discussions, provide detailed responses, and critically analyze texts. They will also use questioning as a tool for deeper understanding across subjects.
Common Misconception 1
Some students may think that asking questions indicates a lack of intelligence. This is incorrect because asking questions actually shows a desire to understand and learn more deeply.
Intervention 1
To address this misconception, consistently praise students for asking questions and demonstrate how asking questions can lead to better understanding. Highlight examples of how questions have led to new discoveries.
Common Misconception 2
Another common misconception is that questions should only be asked when there is complete confusion. This is incorrect because even partial understanding can benefit from clarification.
Intervention 2
Encourage students to ask questions about any part of the topic or text they are unsure about. Use think-aloud strategies to model how asking questions can help clarify partial understandings.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should be able to listen attentively to others and understand basic questions and answers. They should also be familiar with basic classroom discussions and the concept of asking for help when they do not understand something.
Subsequent Knowledge
After mastering this standard, students will develop the ability to engage more deeply in discussions, provide more detailed responses, and critically analyze texts. They will also learn to use questioning as a tool for deeper understanding in other subjects.
Instructional Activities
- Role-playing scenarios where students practice asking questions to clarify understanding
- Group discussions where students are encouraged to ask clarifying questions
- Reading a story and having students ask questions about confusing parts