This curriculum seeks to build 7
th
and 8
th
grade student literary skills by implementing Connecticut Core Standards in English Language Arts (PCGEducation 2013). To simplify presentation of the standards and deviations, this writer listed the 7
th
grade standards followed by parenthetical 8
th
grade standards—fully listing the standard if different or partially listing only the additional element(s) or points of departure if very similar.
With a greater emphasis on standards of speaking and listening, the curriculum includes standards of reading, and writing. Through discussions and self-reflective writings, students will self-assess enduring understandings of the concept of identity, as they gauge, revise, refine, and demonstrate their comprehension and analysis of the text.
Specifically, this curriculum highlights the following standards:
Reading:
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7.2 Determine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze its development over the course of the text; provide an objective summary of the text. (RL.8.2 … including its relationship to the characters, setting, and plot...)
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7.4 Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the impact of rhymes and other repetitions of sounds (e.g., alliteration) on a specific verse or stanza of a poem or section of a story or drama. (RL.8.4 Determine … connotative meanings; analyze the impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone, including analogies or allusions to other texts.)
Writing:
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7.9 Draw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research. (W.8.9 same as W.7.9)
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7.10 Write routinely over extended time frames (time for research, reflection, and revision) and shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or two) for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences. (W.8.10 same as W.7.10)
Speaking and Listening:
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7.1 Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 7 topics, texts, and issues, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly. (SL.8.1 same as SL.7.1)
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7.1.B Follow rules for collegial discussions, track progress toward specific goals, and deadlines, and define individual roles, as needed. (SL.8.1.B same as SL.7.1.B)
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7.1.C Pose questions that elicit elaboration and respond to others' questions and comments with relevant observations and ideas that bring the discussion back on topic as needed. (SL.8.1.C Pose questions…comments with relevant evidence, observations, and ideas.)
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7.1.D Acknowledge new information expressed by others, and, when warranted, modify their own views. (SL.8.1.D Acknowledge…when warranted, qualify, or justify their own views in light of the evidence presented.)