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.
ELA.10.R.1.1
Analyze how key elements enhance or add layers of meaning and/or style in a literary text.
Clarifications:
Clarification 1: Key elements of a literary text are setting, plot, characterization, conflict, point of view, theme, and tone.Clarification 2: For layers of meaning, any methodology or model may be used as long as students understand that text may have multiple layers and that authors use techniques to achieve those layers. A very workable model for looking at layers of meaning is that of I.A. Richards:
Layer 1) the literal level, what the words actually mean
Layer 2) mood, those feelings that are evoked in the reader
Layer 3) tone, the author’s attitude
Layer 4) author’s purpose (interpretation of author’s purpose as it is often inferred).
Clarification 3: Style is the way in which the writer uses techniques for effect. It is distinct from meaning but can be used to make the author’s message more effective. The components of style are diction, syntax, grammar, and use of figurative language. Style helps to create the author’s voice.
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.10.C.1.2
Write narratives using an appropriate pace to create tension, mood, and/or tone.