The benchmark(s) of focus is the primary focus for student learning and instruction to be taught or reinforced and provides an intentional opportunity for students to work with that concept or skill.
SC.5.L.15.1
Describe how, when the environment changes, differences between individuals allow some plants and animals to s...
Supporting benchmarks either make a connection or may help students achieve the focus benchmark(s) and increase students’ opportunities to make connections within the subject or to other subjects. The information included in this section is not a comprehensive list, and educators are encouraged to find other supporting benchmarks.
ELA.K12.EE.1.1
Cite evidence to explain and justify reasoning.
Clarifications:
K-1 Students include textual evidence in their oral communication with guidance and support from adults. The evidence can consist of details from the text without naming the text. During 1st grade, students learn how to incorporate the evidence in their writing.2-3 Students include relevant textual evidence in their written and oral communication. Students should name the text when they refer to it. In 3rd grade, students should use a combination of direct and indirect citations.
4-5 Students continue with previous skills and reference comments made by speakers and peers. Students cite texts that they’ve directly quoted, paraphrased, or used for information. When writing, students will use the form of citation dictated by the instructor or the style guide referenced by the instructor.
6-8 Students continue with previous skills and use a style guide to create a proper citation.
9-12 Students continue with previous skills and should be aware of existing style guides and the ways in which they differ.
ELA.K12.EE.3.1
Make inferences to support comprehension.
Clarifications:
Students will make inferences before the words infer or inference are introduced. Kindergarten students will answer questions like “Why is the girl smiling?” or make predictions about what will happen based on the title page.
Students will use the terms and apply them in 2nd grade and beyond.
ELA.K12.EE.4.1
Use appropriate collaborative techniques and active listening skills when engaging in discussions in a variety...
Clarifications:
In kindergarten, students learn to listen to one another respectfully.In grades 1-2, students build upon these skills by justifying what they are thinking. For example: “I think ________ because _______.” The collaborative conversations are becoming academic conversations.
In grades 3-12, students engage in academic conversations discussing claims and justifying their reasoning, refining and applying skills. Students build on ideas, propel the conversation, and support claims and counterclaims with evidence.