K-5 Standards for Language and Vocabulary Overview

Summary.

Language: Conventions of standard English grammar, usage, capitalization, punctuation and spelling. Choices for meaning and style. Vocabulary: Understand nuances and relationships among words. Use academic vocabulary.

Source:  “CCSSI (Common Core State Standards Initiative) for English Language Arts and Literacy in History/Social Studies and Science.” March 10, 2010, p. 12, 13. You will find the standards at http://www.corestandards.org/.

Comment: In the following standards on language, I find a very thin line between memorizing labels, as in grammar, and applying the information. The distinction is there, but will people reading the standards understand the distinction and the importance of applying the information.  Will the students use the information to improve their writing? RayS.