Standard: 11-12.WHST.2b – Develop the topic thoroughly by selecting the most significant and relevant facts, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples appropriate to the audience’s knowledge of the topic.
Grade level: Grade 11-12
Subject: English Language Arts
Domain: Writing: History, Science & Technical Subjects
Teacher Overview
This standard focuses on developing students’ abilities to thoroughly explore and present a topic by selecting the most significant and relevant information. It is crucial for students to learn how to discern which details, facts, and examples will best support their topic and engage their audience. Mastering this skill is essential for effective communication in both academic and real-world contexts. Students should have a solid grasp of basic research methods and be familiar with different writing styles. They should also understand how to evaluate sources for credibility and relevance.
After mastering this standard, students will be able to craft well-organized and compelling pieces of writing that are tailored to their audience. They will be well-prepared for advanced writing tasks in both academic and professional settings.
Common Misconception 1
A common misconception is that more information is always better. Students may include excessive details that are not relevant to their topic, which can overwhelm and confuse the reader.
Intervention 1
To address this misconception, guide students in evaluating the relevance of each piece of information. Provide exercises that require them to justify the inclusion of specific details based on their significance and relevance to the topic.
Common Misconception 2
Another misconception is that using complex vocabulary and jargon will make their writing more impressive. This can lead to unclear and inaccessible writing.
Intervention 2
Encourage students to prioritize clarity and audience understanding. Provide examples of effective writing that uses plain language and demonstrate how complex ideas can be communicated clearly without unnecessary jargon.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should have a foundational understanding of basic research skills, including how to find credible sources, as well as familiarity with different types of writing such as narrative, expository, and argumentative writing.
Subsequent Knowledge
After mastering this standard, students will be able to create more sophisticated and nuanced pieces of writing, effectively tailoring their content to different audiences and purposes. They will also be better prepared for college-level writing and professional communication.
Instructional Activities
- Analyze sample texts to identify effective use of relevant details.
- Conduct research projects that require selecting and justifying the inclusion of specific information.
- Peer review sessions focused on evaluating the relevance and significance of details in classmates’ writing.
- Writing workshops that emphasize clarity and audience engagement.
