STANDARDS & BENCHMARKS

The student will demonstrate the ability to read with understanding and purpose a variety of materials. (IGAP, Standardized Achievement and classroom assessment.)
STANDARDS	BENCHMARKS
Apply word analysis and vocabulary skills to comprehend selections.	1.A.1a Apply word analysis skills (e.g., phonics, word patterns) to recognize new words.
	1.A.1b Comprehend unfamiliar words using context clues and prior knowledge; verify meanings with resource materials.
Apply reading strategies to improve understanding and fluency.	1.B.1a Establish purposes for reading, make predictions, connect important ideas, and link text to previous experiences and knowledge.
	1.B.1b Identify genres (forms and purposes) of fiction, nonfiction, poetry and electronic literary forms.
	1.B.1c Continuously check and clarify for understanding (e.g., reread, read ahead, use visual and context clues, ask questions, retell, use meaningful substitutions).
	1.B.1d Read age-appropriate material aloud and with fluency and accuracy.
Comprehend a broad range of reading materials.	1.C.1a Use information to form questions and verify predictions.
	1.C.1b Identify important themes and topics.
	1.C.1c Make comparisons across reading selections.
	1.C.1d Summarize content of reading material using text organization (e.g.,story, sequence).
	1.C.1e Identify how authors and illustrators express their ideas in text and graphics (e.g., dialogue, conflict, shape, color, characters).
	1.C.1f Use information presented in simple tables, maps and charts to form an interpretation.
Understand how literary elements and techniques are used to convey meaning.	2.A.1a Identify the literary elements of theme, setting, plot and character within literary works.
	2.A.1b Classify literary works as fiction or nonfiction.
	2.A.1c Describe differences between prose and poetry.
Read and interpret a variety of literary works.	2.B.1a Respond to literary materials by connecting them to their own experience and communicate those responses to others.
	2.B.1b Identify common themes in literature from a variety of eras.
	2.B.1c Relate character, setting and plot to real-life situations.
The student will demonstrate an ability to communicate information and ideas accurately and effectively for a variety of purposes and audiences. (IGAP, Standardized Achievement and Classroom Assessment).
STANDARDS	BENCHMARKS
Use correct grammar, spelling, punctuation, capitalization and structure.	3.A.1 Construct complete sentences which demonstrate subject/verb agreement; appropriate capitalization and punctuation; correct spelling of appropriate, high-frequency words; and appropriate use of the eight parts of speech.
Compose well-organized and coherent writing for specific purposes and audiences.	3.B.1a Use prewriting strategies to generate and organize ideas (e.g., focus on one topic, organize writing to include a beginning, middle and end; use descriptive words when writing about people, places, things, events).
	3.B.1b Demonstrate focus, organization, elaboration and integration in written compositions (e.g., short stories, letters, essays, reports).
Communicate ideas in writing to accomplish a variety of purposes.	3.C.1a Write for a variety of purposes including description, information, explanation, persuasion and narration.
	3.C.1b Create media compositions or productions which convey meaning visually for a variety of purposes.
The student will demonstrate the ability to listen with purpose and understanding to a variety of sources. (IGAP, Standardized Achievement and classroom assessment.)
STANDARDS	BENCHMARKS
Listen effectively in formal and informal situations.	4.A.1a Listen attentively by facing the speaker, making eye contact and paraphrasing what is said.
	4.A.1b Ask questions and respond to questions from the teacher and from group members to improve comprehension.
	4.A.1c Follow oral instructions accurately.
	4.A.1d Use visually oriented and auditorily based media.
The student will demonstrate the ability to orally communicate information and ideas accurately and effectively for a variety of purposes and audiences.
STANDARDS	BENCHMARKS
Speak effectively using language appropriate to the situation and audience.	4.B.1a Present brief oral reports, using language and vocabulary appropriate to the message and audience (e.g., show and tell).
	4.B.1b Participate in discussions around a common topic.
The student will use reading, writing, listening and speaking skills to research and apply information for specific purposes. (IGAP, Standardized Achievement and classroom assessment.)
STANDARDS	BENCHMARKS
Locate, organize, and use information from various sources to answer questions, solve problems and communicate ideas.	5.A.1a Identify questions and gather information.
	5.A.1b Locate information using a variety of resources.
Analyze and evaluate information acquired from various sources.	5.B.1a Select and organize information from various sources for a specific purpose.
	5.B.1b Cite sources used.
Apply acquired information, concepts and ideas to communicate in a variety of formats.	5.C.1a Write letters, reports and stories based on acquired information.
	5.C.1b Use print, nonprint, human and technological resources to acquire and use information.