Standard: 6.L.1e – Recognize variations from standard English in their own and others’ writing and speaking, and identify and use strategies to improve expression in conventional language.*
Grade level: Grade 6
Subject: English Language Arts
Domain: Language
Teacher Overview
This standard focuses on recognizing and correcting deviations from standard English in writing and speaking. It is crucial for helping students communicate more effectively and appropriately in various contexts. Mastery of this standard will aid students in academic and professional settings where standard English is expected. Students should be familiar with basic grammar rules and conventions, such as sentence structure, verb tense, and subject-verb agreement. This foundational knowledge will help them identify non-standard English and understand the importance of using conventional language.
After mastering this standard, students will be able to adapt their language use to different contexts, audiences, and purposes. They will also improve their editing and proofreading skills, leading to clearer and more effective communication.
Common Misconception 1
Some students may think that informal language is suitable for all contexts. This is incorrect because different contexts require different levels of formality. For example, academic writing and professional communication often require standard English to ensure clarity and professionalism.
Intervention 1
To address this misconception, provide students with various examples of formal and informal contexts. Discuss why standard English is important in formal settings and have students practice rewriting informal text into formal language.
Common Misconception 2
Another common misconception is that standard English stifles personal expression. This is not true, as standard English can be both flexible and creative. Well-written texts can adhere to grammatical rules while still being engaging and expressive.
Intervention 2
Analyze examples of creative writing that use standard English. Highlight how authors maintain grammatical correctness while conveying their unique voice and style. Encourage students to experiment with their writing within the bounds of standard English.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should have a basic understanding of standard English grammar rules and conventions, including sentence structure, verb tense, and subject-verb agreement.
Subsequent Knowledge
Students will develop the ability to adapt their language use to different contexts, audiences, and purposes. They will also enhance their editing and proofreading skills, leading to clearer and more effective communication.
Instructional Activities
- Peer review sessions focusing on identifying and correcting non-standard English.
- Writing exercises that require students to convert informal text into formal standard English.
- Class discussions on the importance of using standard English in different contexts.
- Grammar workshops that reinforce the rules of standard English.
- Creative writing assignments that challenge students to be expressive while adhering to standard English conventions.
