Apply sophisticated word meaning and word analysis strategies, such as knowledge of roots, cognates, suffixes, and prefixes, to understand unfamiliar words 

Gather information to help achieve understanding when the meaning of a text is unclear 

Apply knowledge of expository structures, such as the deductive or inductive development of an argument, to the comprehension and evaluation of texts 

Identify propaganda techniques and faulty reasoning in texts 

Explain and evaluate the influence of format on the readability and meaning of a text 

Distinguish between fact and opinion in nonfiction texts 

Consider the context of a work when determining the meaning of abbreviations and acronyms as well as the technical, idiomatic, and figurative meanings of term

C.2. Understands denotative, connotative, and figurative meanings

C.3. Comprehends literal and inferential meanings 

C.5. Summarizes and paraphrases texts orally and in writing

C.7. Recognizes and evaluates the validity of differing interpretations of a text

C.8. Transfers critical reading skills from one discipline or setting to another

C.9. Recognizes the influences of historical, social, biographical, cultural, ethnic and other contexts on a text

BRS 2. Demonstrate comprehension of a range of printed materials

BRS 3. Apply information from content

BRS 4. React critically to a range of printed materials

SS 1. Use a variety of learning strategies to process written material effectively.

SS 2. Use a variety of informational resources.

Explain the structure of selected classical and contemporary works of literature, in whole and in part, from various cultures and historical periods, and illustrate ways in which authors use syntax, imagery, figures of speech, allusions, symbols, irony, and other devices in the context of history, culture, and style 

Draw on a broad base of knowledge about the universal themes of literature such as initiation, love and duty, heroism, illusion and reality, salvation, death and rebirth, and explain how these themes are developed in a particular work of literature 

Investigate and report on ways in which a writer has influenced or been influenced by historical, social, and cultural issues or events 

Develop, explain, and defend interpretations of complex literary works 

Explain how details of language, setting, plot, character, conflict, point of view, and voice in a work of literature combine to produce a dominant tone, effect, or theme 

Develop and apply criteria to evaluate the literary merit of unfamiliar works 

Writing about mathematics (e.g., articles in journals)mathematical ideas as they are used in other contexts

C.2. Understands denotative, connotative, and figurative meanings

C.3. Comprehends literal and inferential meanings 

C.8. Transfers critical reading skills from one discipline or setting to another

C.9. Recognizes the influences of historical, social, biographical, cultural, ethnic and other contexts on a text

C.10. Recognizes the role of imaginative literature in the development of cultures

C.11. Recognizes, understands, and discusses, orally and in writing, conventional literary forms, using appropriate literary terms

C.12. Discusses, orally and in writing, characterization, setting, point of view, and plot development in imaginative literature

BRS 4. React critically to a range of printed materials

Eamine, explain, and evaluate, orally and in writing, various perspectives concerning individual, community, national, and world issues reflected in literary and nonliterary texts 

Develop and articulate, orally and in writing, defensible points of view on individual, community, national, and world issues reflected in literary and nonliterary texts 

Identify the devices an author uses to influence readers and critique the effectiveness of their use 

Identify philosophical assumptions and basic beliefs underlying selected texts

C.8. Transfers critical reading skills from one discipline or setting to another

C.9. Recognizes the influences of historical, social, biographical, cultural, ethnic and other contexts on a text

BRS 4. React critically to a range of printed materials

Apply tests of logic and reasoning to informational and persuasive texts.

Apply tests of logic and reasoning to informational and persuasive texts 

Apply tests of logic and reasoning to informational and persuasive texts 

Analyze and synthesize the concepts and details encountered in informational texts such as reports, technical manuals, historical papers, and government documents 

Draw on and integrate information from multiple sources when acquiring knowledge and developing a position on a topic of interest 

Evaluate the reliability and authenticity of information conveyed in a text, using criteria based on knowledge of the author, topic, and context and analysis of logic, evidence, propaganda, and language

C.8. Transfers critical reading skills from one discipline or setting to another

C.9. Recognizes the influences of historical, social, biographical, cultural, ethnic and other contexts on a text

BRS 4. React critically to a range of printed materials

Write a coherent argument that takes a position, accurately summarizes an opposing position, refutes that position, and cites persuasive evidence 

Compose and publish analytic and reflective writing that conveys knowledge, experience, insights, and opinions to an intended audience 

Use rhetorical structures that divide complex thoughts into simpler ones, logical transitions from one thought to another, and language appropriate to the intended audience 

Write creative fiction that includes an authentic setting, discernible tone, coherent plot, distinct characters, effective detail, believable dialogue, and reasonable resolution of conflict 

Write summaries of complex information (such as information in a lengthy text or a sequence of events), expand or reduce the summaries by adding or deleting detail, and integrate appropriately summarized information into reviews, reports, or essays, with correct citations 

Write autobiographical and biographical narratives in a mature style characterized by suitable vocabulary, descriptive detail, effective syntax, an appropriate voice, a variety of sentence structures, clear coordination and subordination of ideas, and rhetorical devices that help establish tone and reinforce meaning 

Prepare and publish technical writing such as memos, applications, letters, reports and resumes for various audiences, attending to details of layout and format as appropriate to purpose 

Write in a variety of situations (impromptu, over time, in collaboration or alone) and adapt strategies, such as revision, technology, and the use of reference materials, to the situation 

Use a variety of writing technologies, including pen and paper as well as computers 

Write for a variety of readers, including peers, teachers, and other adults, adapting content, style, and structure to audience and situation

B.3. Has a logical organization, appropriate transitions, and internal coherence and cohesion

B.6. Expresses ideas with individuality and insight

Write essays demonstrating the capacity to communicate knowledge, opinions, and insights to an intended audience through a clear thesis and effective organization of supporting ideas 

Develop a composition through a series of drafts, using a revision strategy based on purpose and audience, personal style, self-awareness of strengths and weaknesses as a writer, and feedback from peers and teachers 

Given a writing assignment to be completed in a limited amount of time, produce a well developed, well organized, clearly written response in effective language and a voice appropriate for audience and purpose

A.2. Considers purpose and audience when selecting and limiting topics

A.3. Gathers and evaluates materials and information pertinent to the topic

A.5. Discovers and develops ideas, distinguishing between topics and theses

A.6. Supports ideas with evidence that is both sufficient and relevant, including source materials where appropriate

A.7 Distinguishes major points from minor points

A.10. Writes multiple drafts when necessary

A.11. Reads own drafts critically to refine the development and expression of ideas

A.12. Anticipates the needs and responses of readers

Incorporates feedback from readers and provides constructive feedback to other writers

A.13. Incorporates feedback from readers and provides constructive feedback to other writers

Understand the form and function of words, phrases, and clauses, including inter-related clauses in complex sentences, and use them effectively 

Use correct tenses, including conditionals, to indicate the relative order and relationship of events, 

Employ principles of agreement, including subject-verb, pronoun-noun, and preposition-pronoun 

Punctuate compound, complex, and compound-complex sentences correctly, including appropriate use of dialogue, citations, colons, hyphens, dashes, ellipses, and italics 

Employ the conventions of capitalization 

Spell frequently used words correctly and use effective strategies for spelling unfamiliar words

Recognize common errors in the use of language and know how (and when) to correct them
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

CS 2. Apply rules of mechanics

CS 3. Compose complete sentences

Develop and deliver a speech that conveys information and ideas in logical fashion for a selected audience, using language that clarifies and reinforces meaning 

Construct and present a coherent argument, summarizing then refuting opposing positions, and citing persuasive evidence 

Participate effectively in question-and-answer sessions following presentations 

Summarize narrative and numerical information accurately and logically in presentations 

Demonstrate confidence and poise during presentations, interacting effectively with the audience, and selecting language and gestures mindful of their effect 

Demonstrate the ability to debate an issue from either side 

Interpret literary works orally, citing textual data in support of assertions 

Synthesize and present results of research projects, accurately summarizing and illustrating the main ideas, using appropriate technological aids, and offering support for the conclusions 

Speak fluently with varied inflection and effective eye contact, enunciating clearly at an appropriate rate and volume 

Observe the appropriate etiquette when expressing thanks and receiving praise

DS2. Presents information that is well organized

DS3. Supports a position with evidence and effective reasoning 

DS4. Presents information which reflects effective language sills, e.g., use of transitions and clear and appropriate word choices

DS5. Uses effectively vocal articulation, pronunciation, volume, pitch, vocal quality and body movement;

DS6. Distinguishes and uses various functions or purposes of communication (e.g., informative, expressive, imaginative, and persuasive)

DS7. Employs and responds to nonverbal communication

9. Communicate ideas orally

Attend to both literal and connotative meanings 

Distinguish between relevant and irrelevant information 

Distinguish fact from opinion, evaluate logic, and identify manipulative techniques 

Analyze messages for their accuracy and usefulness 

Evaluate a speaker's use of diction, tone, syntax, rhetorical structure, and conventions of language considering the purpose and context of the communication 

Relate a speaker's ideas and information to prior knowledge and experience 

Consider the specific situation and current conditions when responding to instructions

DS3. Supports a position with evidence and effective reasoning 

DS7. Employs and responds to nonverbal communication

8. Use interpersonal skills

Detect and evaluate a speaker's bias 

Consider the ideas and opinions of other speakers thoughtfully before responding 

Evaluate the validity and adequacy of ideas, arguments, hypotheses, and evidence 

Be aware of and try to control counterproductive emotional responses to a speaker or ideas conveyed in a discussion 

Appraise the purpose of discussions by examining their context and the motivation of participants 

Perform various roles in a discussion, including leader, participant, and moderator 

Demonstrate the ability to extend a discussion by adding relevant information or asking pertinent questions 

Explain and advance opinions by citing evidence and referring to authoritative sources 

Employ strategies such as summarizing main ideas or identifying areas of agreement to solve problems, resolve conflicts, and conclude discussions 

Convey criticism in a respectful and supportive way
 
 

DS1. Communicates in ways appropriate to a variety of audiences and ontexts

DS7. Employs and responds to nonverbal communication

8. Use interpersonal skills

10. Participate as a team/group member

Examine the origin, history, denotation, connotation, and usage of English words and phrases by consulting dictionaries, thesauruses, handbooks, and other sources of information about the language 

Evaluate the effects of different types of language, such as literary and technical, formal and informal, in communications designed to narrate, inform, explain, persuade, and entertain 

Use language appropriate to the background, knowledge, and age of an audience 

Recognize and exercise options in modes of expression and choice of words when speaking and writing, especially when revising written work

A.17. Demonstrates control of standard usage, grammar, spelling, and punctuation

B.2. Focuses on a subject, employs unifying ideas, and uses appropriate organizational patterns (e.g., comparison/contrast, cause/effect, description/narration)

B.6. Expresses ideas with individuality and insight

Evaluate the use of standard American English in public contexts, such as school and work 

Evaluate the choice of words, expressions, and style considering the purpose and context of a communication 

Analyze and explain how immediate context and broader social, cultural, regional, and professional variables influence the use of language, citing characteristics such as level of formality, slang, jargon, and emotional impact 

Draw inferences about values, attitudes, and points of view by analyzing a writer's or speaker's use of English 

Compare form, meaning, and value of different symbol systems--such as alphabets, signs, symbols--and of expressions commonly used in another language

Design, format, and produce attractive word-processed documents for various purposes 

Incorporate information from databases and spreadsheets into reports 

Integrate graphics appropriately into reports, newsletters, and other documents 

Retrieve and reproduce documents across various platforms 

Use on-line sources to exchange information

Develop and apply evaluative criteria of accuracy and point of view to broadcast news programs 

Recognize and explain the impact of various media on daily life 

Analyze the content and effect of subtle persuasive techniques used on-line and in broadcast and print media 

Develop and apply criteria for evaluating broadcast programming

Create multimedia presentations in connection with major projects, such as research reports or exhibitions 

Develop various media products to inform or entertain others in school or the community such as slide shows, videos, newspapers, sound recordings, literary publications, and brochures

Analyze the effect of media production techniques, such as music, camera angles, fade-outs, and lighting, on different audiences 

Evaluate the impact of various market factors on the effectiveness of media production and distribution 

Identify the impact of image and context on particular audiences receiving the same message 

Develop and apply criteria for evaluating advertising campaigns for a variety of products, past and present

Develop and present criteria for evaluating a variety of media products 

Evaluate audience feedback on the clarity, form, effectiveness, technical achievement and aesthetic appeal of media work

Formulate questions addressing issues or problems that can be answered through a well defined and focused investigation 

Use research tools found in school and college libraries, take notes, collect and classify sources, and develop strategies for finding and recording information 

Conduct interviews, taking notes or recording and transcribing oral information, then summarizing the results 

Develop research strategies appropriate to the investigation, considering methods such as questionnaires, experiments, and field studies 

Organize research materials and data, maintaining a note-taking system that includes summary, paraphrase, and quoted material 

Evaluate the usefulness and credibility of data and sources by applying tests of evidence, including bias, position, expertise, adequacy, validity, reliability, and date 

Analyze, synthesize, and integrate data, drafting a reasoned report that supports and appropriately illustrates inferences and conclusions drawn from research 

Present findings in oral and written reports, correctly citing sources

B.7. Employs conventional formats of documentation, for example, MLA, APA, Chicago