English Language Development

Type

Description of

Question Example Questions

CA CCSS for

ELA/Literacy

Take it Apart Analyze text

structure and

organization

The first paragraph is important

because...

How has the author organized

the information (cause/effect,

clues/evidence, chronological,

etc.)?

Why does the author use a

chart, illustration...?

The author uses description to

tell... give an example from

the text.

RL/RI.6–8,

Standards 4–6

RH/RST.6–8,

Standards 5–6

Source

Adapted from

Kilgo, Margaret J. 2003. Trailblazers Reading Explorers Tutoring Program: Comprehension Through Deductive

Reasoning. New Rochelle, NY: Benchmark Education.

Language Development

As noted in the overview of this chapter, language
development spans all areas of ELA/literacy and ELD:
understanding written texts; producing written texts and oral
presentations; as well as knowledge and use of standard English
grammar and usage, and of vocabulary. Thus, elements of
academic language are addressed in the sections on meaning
making, effective expression, and content knowledge for each
grade. This section highlights vocabulary acquisition and use
for grade six. As discussed in previous chapters, a multi-faceted
approach is taken to develop vocabulary, including establishing a
word-conscious environment, teaching specific words, teaching
word-learning strategies, and providing multiple opportunities to
experience and use new vocabulary. Standards new to grade six
include the following:

• Verify the preliminary determination of the meaning of a word or phrase (e.g., by checking the
  inferred meaning in context or in a dictionary). (L.6.4d)


• Use the relationship between particular words (e.g., cause/effect, part/whole, item/category) to
  better understand each of the words. (L.6.5b)


• Distinguish among the connotations (associations) of words with similar denotations
  (definitions) (e.g., stingy, scrimping, economical, unwasteful, thrifty). (L.6.5c)


• Gather vocabulary knowledge when considering a word or phrase important to comprehension
  or expression. (L.6.6)
  The following snapshot presents designated ELD instruction connected to world history in which
  vocabulary is an important element. It addresses many components of ELA/literacy and ELD in
  addition to vocabulary as well.

552 | Chapter 6 Grade 6