Using Language Conventions
Contributing to effective expression is students’ command over language conventions, such as
grammar and usage in writing and speaking and capitalization, punctuation, and spelling in writing.
By the end of grade five, students learned the function of nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs
(L.3.1a), prepositions, conjunctions, and interjections (L.5.1a) in general and in particular sentences.
They learned specialized forms of these language elements and used them in their writing and
speaking. Students learned the use of capitalization, punctuation (end punctuation for sentences,
apostrophes for possessives and contractions, commas, and quotation marks), and spelling of grade-
appropriate words (L.K–5.2) when writing. Students also gained knowledge of language related to
the use of words, phrases, and sentences in writing, speaking, reading, and listening; they developed
understandings about the contexts that call for formal and informal uses of English (L.2–5.3). The
command of standard English conventions and knowledge of English have grown as the result
rich reading, writing, and language opportunities in which students have had repeated exposures,
contextualized practice, and meaningful language use.
The Language strand is designed so that language skills and abilities and knowledge about
language learned in earlier grades serve as a base for those learned in later grades. Since language
is continually developing, the CA CCSS for ELA/Literacy identify some skills first specified in the earlier
grades that may need continued attention through the later grades. See figure 6.6.
Figure 6.6. Language Standards That May Need Continued Attention Through Middle
SchoolL.3.1f. Ensure subject-verb and pronoun-antecedent agreement.
L.3.3a. Choose words and phrases for effect.
L.4.1f. Produce complete sentences, recognizing and correcting inappropriate fragments and
run-ons.
L.4.1g. Correctly use frequently confused words (e.g., to/too/two; there/their).
L.4.3a. Choose words and phrases to convey ideas precisely.
L.4.3b. Choose punctuation for effect.
L.5.1d. Recognize and correct inappropriate shifts in verb tense.
L.5.2a. Use punctuation to separate items in a series.
L.6.1c. Recognize and correct inappropriate shifts in pronoun number and person.
L.6.1d. Recognize and correct vague pronouns (i.e., ones with unclear or ambiguous
antecedents).
L.6.1e. Recognize variations from standard English in their own and others’ writing and
speaking, and identify and use strategies to improve expression in conventional
language.
L.6.2a. Use punctuation (commas, parentheses, dashes) to set off nonrestrictive/parenthetical
elements.
L.6.3a. Vary sentence patterns for meaning, reader/listener interest, and style.
L.6.3b. Maintain consistency in style and tone.
L.7.1c. Place phrases and clauses within a sentence, recognizing and correcting misplaced
and dangling modifiers.
L.7.3a. Choose language that expresses ideas precisely and concisely, recognizing and
eliminating wordiness and redundancy.Grades 6 to 8 Chapter 6 | 529