Standard: 6.L.1a – Ensure that pronouns are in the proper case (subjective, objective, possessive).
Grade level: Grade 6
Subject: English Language Arts
Domain: Language
Teacher Overview
This standard focuses on ensuring that students can correctly use pronouns in the proper case—subjective, objective, and possessive. Mastery of this standard is crucial as it lays the foundation for clear and effective communication, both in writing and speaking. Proper pronoun usage is essential for avoiding ambiguity and ensuring that sentences are grammatically correct. Before tackling this standard, students should be comfortable identifying pronouns and understanding their basic functions. They should also have experience with simple sentence structures where pronouns replace nouns.
After mastering this standard, students will be better equipped to handle more complex grammatical structures. They will also be able to ensure pronoun-antecedent agreement and understand the nuances of pronoun usage in various contexts.
Common Misconception 1
One common misconception is that students may confuse subjective and objective pronouns, such as using ‘me’ instead of ‘I’ in the subject position. This confusion often stems from informal speech patterns where incorrect usage is common.
Intervention 1
To address this misconception, teachers can use sentence diagramming exercises that visually differentiate between subjective and objective pronouns. Practice sentences where students must choose the correct pronoun based on its function in the sentence can also be helpful.
Common Misconception 2
Another common misconception is the incorrect use of possessive pronouns as contractions. For example, students might write ‘it’s’ instead of ‘its’ when indicating possession. This error often arises from not understanding the difference between possessive pronouns and contractions.
Intervention 2
Teachers can provide practice sentences that highlight the difference between possessive pronouns and contractions. Peer review sessions where students correct each other’s work can reinforce correct usage.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should have a basic understanding of pronouns and their functions, including identifying pronouns in sentences and distinguishing between different types of pronouns (subjective, objective, possessive).
Subsequent Knowledge
Students will develop advanced grammar skills, such as using pronouns in complex sentences, ensuring pronoun-antecedent agreement, and understanding the nuances of pronoun usage in different contexts.
Instructional Activities
- Sentence diagramming exercises
- Pronoun usage worksheets
- Peer review sessions
- Writing prompts focusing on correct pronoun usage
- Interactive grammar games
