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English/Language ArtsCurriculum Standards

EIGHTH GRADEStandards, Learning Expectations and

Draft Performance Indicators

ReadingContent Standard: 1.0The student will develop the reading and listening skillsnecessary for word recognition, comprehension,interpretation, analysis, evaluation, and appreciation ofprint and non-print text.Accomplishment:8.1.01 Continue to develop oral language and listeningskills.

a. Continue to model active listening in both formal andinformal settings.

ATE: 91, 263, 633, 788, 950-52

b. Continue to adhere to rules for public conversations. ATE: 45, 151, 956-58

c. Continue to formulate and respond to questions fromteachers and classmates.

ATE: 78, 91, 263, 294, 788

d. Continue to organize and share information, stories,experiences, ideas, and feelings with others in both formaland informal situations.

ATE: 45, 151, 91, 956-58

e. Participate in creative responses to text (e.g., debates,dramatizations, speeches).

ATE: 294, 392, 794, 956-59

f. Deliver a focused, well-organized oral presentation,using multiple sources of information from any content areautilizing visual aids for contextual support.

ATE: 392, 794, 956-57

g. Incorporate into oral reading, discussions, andpresentations the use of correct stress, pitch, and juncture.

ATE: 91, 221, 238, 256, 957

h. Analyze a variety of non-verbal communicationtechniques and how they impact the audience and speaker.

ATE: 950-951

8.1.02 Develop an understanding of the concepts of print.a. Recognize the defining characteristics of a variety oftexts (e.g., identify differences between poetry andnarration, between plays and essays, between biographyand historical fiction).

ATE: 364, 464, 576, 692, 774

b. Approach texts according to their type usingappropriate skills and prior knowledge (e.g., read poetryaloud, bring knowledge of history to a reading ofbiography, provide "between the lines" information indrama, determine how the form/genre informs meaning).

ATE: 894-899

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c. Recognize the structure and organization of various textfeatures to locate information (e.g., sidebars, questions atthe end of chapter/unit, footnotes, endnotes).

ATE: 3, 11, 43-44

8.1.03 Expand reading skills through phonemic awareness.a. Continue to develop an awareness of the sounds oflanguage through repeated exposure to a variety of auditoryexperiences (e.g., poems, music lyrics, books on tape, readalouds).

ATE: 27, 32, 158, 238, 256

b. Evaluate patterns of rhyme and rhythm and how theyaffect understanding.

ATE: 5, 10, 152, 578, 603

c. Evaluate the effects of sound in language (e.g.,alliteration [assonance and consonance], onomatopoeia,slant rhyme, internal rhyme, accent, repetition).

ATE: 233, 237, 585, 578, 588

8.1.04 Use decoding strategies.a. Recognize and identify the base/root word from wordshaving affixes.

ATE: 901, 947-48

b. Determine the meaning of prefixes and suffixes throughidentification and usage.

ATE: 901, 947-48

c. Use context clues to determine multiple meaningwords.

ATE: 139, 189, 276, 899

d. Decode unknown grade level words utilizing previouslearned strategies and verify the word's meaning within thecontext of the selection.

ATE: 91, 314, 899, 900

8.1.05 Read to develop fluency, expression, accuracy, andconfidence.

a. Demonstrate the ability to read fluently withexpression, accuracy, and poise from a variety of texts (e.g.,paired reading, choral reading, and read alongs).

ATE: 68, 238, 256, 271

b. Continue to participate in guided reading. ATE: 20-21, 40-42

c. Continue to read using appropriate pronunciation,expression, and rate.

ATE: 238, 256, 271, 446

d. Continue to adjust speed based on the purpose forreading.

ATE: 894-899

e. Continue to read independently on a daily basis. ATE: 45, 111, 167, 239, 883

8.1.06 Expand reading vocabulary.a. Build vocabulary by listening to literature, viewingfilms and documentaries, participating in class discussions,and reading self-selected and assigned texts.

ATE: 32, 158, 271, 301, 434

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b. Build vocabulary by reading and viewing from a widevariety of print and non-print texts, literary and mediagenres and modes.

ATE: 184, 308, 368, 580, 778

c. Analyze word meanings using roots, prefixes, andsuffixes.

ATE: 901, 947-48, 979

d. Continue to determine the meaning of unfamiliar wordsusing context clues, dictionaries, electronic sources,glossaries, and other resources.

ATE: 661, 899, 900-67

e. Evaluate the use of synonyms, antonyms, homonyms,and multiple meaning words, and determine how they assistwith understanding.

ATE: 899, 900

f. Continue to foster word consciousness (e.g., word play,word walls, graphic organizers, nuances of words, powerwords).

ATE: 5, 9, 17, 52, 113, 246

g. Analyze and use useful mnemonic devices (e.g.,rhyming words, vocabulary cartoons, kinesthetic) to acquirenew vocabulary.

ATE: 152, 158, 991

h. Select the correct word or phrase to complete ananalogy.

ATE: 643, 647, 982

i. Recognize the historical influences on and changes tothe English language.

ATE: 124, 946-47

j. Consider word etymology and semantic change as partof vocabulary study.

ATE: 900-901

k. Recognize and interpret widely used foreign phrases(e.g., e pluribus unum, c'est la vie).

ATE: 676

l. Use connotation and denotation for vocabulary studies. ATE: 901

m. Recognize that word choices create a mood to set atone.

ATE: 200, 357, 393, 424, 679

n. Discover ways by which a language acquires newwords (e.g., brand names, acronyms).

ATE: 900-901

o. Identify words and phrases that serve as clues to revealtime periods, cultures and regions represented (e.g., use ofvocabulary associated with a particular time period, region,or country).

ATE: 920-21, 676, 946-47

8.1.07 Develop independent pre-reading strategies tofacilitate comprehension.

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a. Continue to establish a purpose for reading and viewing(e.g., to understand, to interpret, to enjoy, to solveproblems, to answer specific questions, to discoverinformation/facts, to discover models of writing).

ATE: 581-91, 603, 680, 883, 900

b. Continue to utilize reference sources to buildbackground knowledge for reading.

ATE: 5, 12, 35, 57, 79

c. Continue to use previously learned strategies to frontload text (e.g., skimming and scanning, connecting to priorknowledge).

ATE: 587, 592, 607, 637, 665, 894

d. Preview text, using supports such asillustrations/pictures, captions, graphs, diagrams, headings,subheadings, and footnotes.

ATE: 5, 13, 35, 57, 86

e. Relate the importance and the significance of thereading, listening, and viewing selections to learning andlife.

ATE: 43-44, 52, 187

f. Analyze significant words to be encountered in the text. ATE: 52, 124, 139, 209

g. Make predictions about print and non-print text. ATE: 5, 13, 35, 57, 86

h. Relate print and non-print text to prior personalexperiences or opinions, historical knowledge, currentevents and cultural background as well as previously readprint and non-print texts.

ATE: 53, 110-11, 123, 199

8.1.08 Use active comprehension strategies to derivemeaning while reading and check for understanding afterreading.a. Derive meaning while reading by

1. continuing to formulate clarifying questions. ATE: 907

2. evaluating predictions made in prereading and makingadjustments.

ATE: 5, 57, 123, 184, 209

3. continuing to predict outcomes, state reasonablegeneralizations, and draw conclusions based on priorknowledge and information gained while reading.

ATE: 33, 101, 179, 303

4. using metacognitive and self-monitoring strategieswhile reading (e.g. pausing, rereading, consulting othersources, reading ahead, asking for help).

ATE: 894-98

5. engaging in reading between the lines (i.e., changingperspective among characters to determine thoughts,imagining parallel events, stating implied information).

ATE: 895-97

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6. continuing to create mental pictures from abstractinformation.

ATE: 894-95

7. continuing to relate text to prior personal experiencesor opinions as well as previously read print and non-printtexts.

ATE: 420, 429, 488, 490

8. making inferences and recognizing unstatedassumptions.

ATE: 101, 157, 255, 279,897

9. verifying or modifying pre-reading purpose asadditional information is obtained.

ATE: 281, 307, 895-99

10. exploring ways to interact with text (e.g., mark the text,use post-it notes, ask questions and make comments withinthe text).

ATE: 897-98

b. Derive meaning after reading by1. indicating, analyzing, and evaluating the sequence ofevents.

ATE: 197, 201, 984

2. recognizing and stating the main idea/central element ina given reading selection, noting details that support themain idea/central element.

ATE: 66, 90, 207, 86, 246

3. identifying the author's purpose and analyzing todetermine if purpose is met.

ATE: 101, 207, 230, 246

4. discussing similarities and differences in events andcharacters using evidence cited from the text or varioustexts.

ATE: 12, 76, 84, 101

5. analyzing and evaluating the text to find contextualsupport for responses to questions, for assistance informulating ideas and opinions, and for supporting personalresponses.

ATE: 33, 43, 76, 135, 197

6. assessing the accuracy and appropriateness of anauthor's details to support claims and assertions, notinginstances of bias and stereotyping.

ATE: 201, 207, 246

7. evaluating cause and effect relationships. ATE: 207, 912, 915

8. evaluating statements as fact or opinion. ATE: 596, 804, 961

9. analyzing the use of figurative language (idioms,similes, metaphors, personification, imagery, puns).

ATE: 43, 198, 255, 367, 585

10. analyzing themes, whether stated or implied. ATE: 35, 52-53, 118-19, 301-06

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11. evaluating and reflecting upon comprehensionstrategies utilized to make meaning from texts.

ATE: 42-43, 76, 78, 102

12. making connections among various print and non-printtexts.

ATE: 76, 78, 105, 446, 447

13. making connections among the various literary genresand themes with personal, historical, and culturalexperiences.

ATE: 59, 76, 79, 105, 119

14. evaluating reading selections for their application todaily life (e.g., extend and apply meaning derived from textto different situations).

ATE: 44, 59, 74, 89, 102

8.1.09 Refine study skills and develop methods of researchto enhance learning.

a. Determine appropriate reference sources in variousformats (e.g., encyclopedias, card/electronic catalogs,almanacs, periodicals, Internet).

ATE: 596, 634, 661, 672, 966

b. Use media (e.g., films, video, the visual and performingarts, on-line catalogs, non-fiction books, encyclopedias,CD-ROMs, references, Internet) to view, read, andrepresent information.

ATE: 314, 446, 502, 967-69

c. Use current technology (e.g., the Internet, CD-ROMs,online catalogs) as a research communication tool.

ATE: 78, 238, 454, 839, 898, 967

d. Analyze a variety of reference sources (e.g.,biographical sketches, letters, diaries, encyclopedias,periodicals).

ATE: 596, 899-900, 967, 970

e. Distinguish between and use primary and secondarysource documents.

ATE: 502, 969

f. Evaluate resources for validity and reliability. ATE: 199, 353, 967

g. Continue to refine skimming and scanning skills. ATE: 898-99

h. Retrieve, organize, represent, analyze, and evaluateinformation to demonstrate knowledge effectively acquired.

ATE: 965-972

i. Develop and use notes that include important concepts,summaries, and identification of reference sources.

ATE: 964-65

j. Investigate and evaluate the impact of bias/persuasivedevices on daily life.

ATE: 158, 324, 955

k. Recognize and identify a statement as an example ofpersuasive and/or propaganda techniques (e.g., falsegeneralizations, loaded words, snob appeal, name-calling,bandwagon, testimonials, and inconsistencies of logic).

ATE: 777-87, 817, 826

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bandwagon, testimonials, and inconsistencies of logic).

l. Use and evaluate a variety of sources to prepare aresearch paper that includes a title page, outline, notes, anda bibliography.

ATE: 965-73

m. Define and apply internal (subjective) and external(objective) criteria in making critical evaluations of givenstatements.

ATE: 361, 773

8.1.10 Apply vocabulary development and comprehensionskill to facilitate reading to learn in content areas.

a. Expand and maintain vocabulary specific to contentareas and to current events.

ATE: 118, 246, 360, 462, 772

b. Continue to locate information using available textfeatures (e.g., maps, charts, timelines, graphics, indexes,glossaries, footnotes, author's biography, and tables ofcontent).

ATE: 118, 466, 690, 982, 994

c. Apply, analyze, and evaluate comprehension skills andstrategies used to obtain meaning from informational text inthe content areas.

ATE: 466-67, 829, 831

d. Continue to use self-correction strategies while reading(e.g., pausing, rereading, consulting other sources,).

ATE: 466, 896, 897

e. Continue to interact with the text and analyze itseffectiveness.

ATE: 463, 690-91, 703

f. Determine the reliability of sources by exploring theauthor's background, intentions and motives.

ATE: 65, 81, 147, 155, 205

8.1.11 Read independently for a variety of purposes.a. Read for literary experience. ATE: 58, 70, 378, 394

b. Read to gain information. ATE: 138, 290, 310

c. Read to perform a task. ATE: 855, 862, 879

d. Read for enjoyment. ATE: 58, 70, 378, 349, 394

e. Read to expand vocabulary. ATE: 471, 493, 504, 580

f. Read to build fluency. ATE: 58, 70, 378, 349, 394

8.1.12 Experience and explore the elements of variousliterary and media genres.

a. Continue to read, view, and recognize various literary(e.g. novels, science fictions, plays, suspense, poetry,autobiographies/biographies, non-fiction of high interest)and media (e.g., music, films, videos, documentaries, thevisual and performing arts) genres.

ATE: 6, 58, 93, 258, 858

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visual and performing arts) genres.

b. Recognize and analyze the elements of various literaryand media genres.

ATE: 364, 576, 692, 774

c. Explore the elements that determine types of fiction(e.g., suspense/mystery, comedy/humor, drama, historicalfiction, romance, legends and myths).

ATE: 366, 466-69, 694, 776

d. Identify and evaluate stated or implied themes andconnect recurring themes to previously read materials andcurrent readings.

ATE: 5, 35, 52-53, 90, 118-19

e. Evaluate how the author develops characters (e.g.,through words, speech, action, thoughts, narrator,interaction, motivation) and evaluate whether the charactersare stereotypical or realistic.

ATE: 12, 424, 433, 466, 503, 512

f. Evaluate words, phrases, and other devices used byauthors to create mood to establish a tone.

ATE: 200, 393, 424, 467, 697

g. Determine the elements of the plot and trace them usinggraphic organizers (i.e. exposition, rising action, climax,falling action, resolution/denouement).

ATE: 57, 466, 492, 656

h. Distinguish among varying types of conflict (i.e., manv. man, man v. nature, man v. himself).

ATE: 264, 271, 805, 984-86,

i. Explore subplots in literary selections and films. ATE: 57, 66, 466, 502, 656

j. Compare and contrast between or among stories/eventsthe elements of the plot.

ATE: 66, 101, 786

k. Determine the narrator's/author's point of view (i.e. firstperson, third person, limited or omniscient).

ATE: 69, 279, 352, 469, 478-79

l. Explore and explain how a story changes or an event isperceived if the point of view is changed.

ATE: 279, 469, 478-479

m. Summarize, paraphrase, and evaluate selected passagesfor discussion and/or written assignments or presentations.

ATE: 501, 786, 793

n. Make inferences about print and non-print text. ATE: 478, 501, 511, 788

o. Use deductive reasoning to facilitate and to extendunderstanding of texts.

ATE: 511, 563, 583, 793

p. Determine the differences among non-fiction materials(e.g., letters, memoirs, diaries, journals, documentaries,autobiographies, biographies, and educational,informational and technical texts).

ATE: 660, 776, 835, 838

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q. Demonstrate knowledge of similes, metaphors,personification, symbolism, idioms, puns, hyperbole,flashback, foreshadowing, and irony.

ATE: 35, 43, 367, 377, 563-64

r. Explore the concept of allusion. ATE: 667, 670, 982

8.1.13 Develop and sustain a motivation for reading.a. Visit libraries/media centers, book fairs, bookstores,and other print rich environments to explore books.

ATE: 45, 111, 167, 239, 304

b. Use personal criteria to select reading material (e.g.,personal interest, knowledge of authors, text difficulty, textgenres, recommendation of others).

ATE: 471, 578, 644, 778

c. Read daily from self-selected materials. ATE: 186, 229, 316, 381, 394

d. Relate literary experiences (e.g., book discussions,literary circles, writing, oral presentations, artisticexpressions).

ATE: 45, 91, 788, 895, 953-54

e. Experience and develop an awareness of literature thatreflects a diverse society.

ATE: 82, 150, 229, 234, 358

f. Maintain a personal reading list/or reading log/journalto reflect reading gains and accomplishments.

ATE: 5, 69, 123, 137, 895

Eighth Grade Benchmarks/Indicators (Reading)

Performance Indicators StateAs documented through state assessment -At Level 1, the student is able to8.1.spi.1. formulate appropriate questions during the reading oftext.

ATE: 125, 150, 626-27

8.1.spi.2 choose the correct meaning/usage of multi-meaningwords by replacing the word in context with an appropriatesynonym or antonym.

ATE: 647, 899, 900, 966

8.1.spi.3. locate information using available text features (e.g.,maps, charts, graphics, indexes, glossaries, tables of contents,and appendices).

ATE: 118, 466, 690, 982, 994

8.1.spi.4. identify on a graphic organizer the points at whichvarious plot elements occur.

ATE: 168, 171-72, 910

8.1.spi.5. identify an appropriate title to reinforce the main ideaof a passage or paragraph.

ATE: 84

8.1.spi. 6. determine cause-effect relationships in context. ATE: 109, 118, 1508.1.spi. 7. determine inferences from selected passages. ATE: 76, 101, 109, 1358.1.spi. 8. recognize a reasonable prediction of future events ofa passage.

ATE: 157, 163, 165, 207

8.1.spi. 9. select information using keywords and headings. ATE: 43, 48, 69, 77, 264At Level 2, the student is able to8.1.spi.10. recognize and use grade appropriate and/or contentspecific vocabulary.

ATE: 53, 118, 179, 462, 689

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8.1.spi.11. determine an author's purpose for writing or astudent's purpose for reading.

ATE: 262, 453, 677, 903

8.1.spi.12. identify an implied theme from a selection or relatedselections.

ATE: 35, 52-53, 90, 118-19

8.1.spi.13. use text features (e.g., sidebars, footnotes, andendnotes) to determine meaning.

ATE: 92, 113-16, 176, 201

8.1.spi.14. distinguish among different genres (e.g., poetry,drama, letters, ads, historical fiction, biographies,autobiographies, and essays) and their distinguishingcharacteristics.

ATE: 466, 578, 694, 776

8.1.spi.15. identify examples within context of similes,metaphors, alliteration, onomatopoeia, personification, andhyperbole.

ATE: 35, 43, 198, 578

8.1.spi.16. choose a logical word or phrase to complete ananalogy, using scrambled words and homophones in addition topreviously learned analogies.

ATE: 643, 647, 982

8.1.spi.17. recognize and identify the techniques of propaganda(i.e., bandwagon, loaded words, and testimonials).

ATE: 961-963

8.1.spi.18. recognize author's point of view (e.g., first person orthird person, limited/ omniscient).

ATE: 69, 279, 352, 469, 479

8.1.spi.19. determine how a story changes if the point of view ischanged.

ATE: 279, 479

8.1.spi.20. recognize commonly used foreign phrases (e.g.,bonjour, hasta la vista, bon voyage, mi casa es su casa, epluribus unum, c'est la vie).

ATE: 36, 70, 72

8.1.spi.21. identify examples of sound devices within context(e.g. rhyme, alliteration, assonance, slant rhyme, repetition,internal rhyme).

ATE: 233, 237, 578-79, 585

8.1.spi.22. recognize and identify words within context thatreveal particular time periods and cultures.

ATE: 36, 70, 72, 218, 308

At Level 3, the student is able to8.1.spi.23. determine the influence of culture and ethnicity onthe themes and issues of literary texts.

ATE: 8, 28, 36, 70, 200

8.1.spi.24. identify how the author reveals character (e.g.,physical characteristics, dialog, what others say about him,what he does).

ATE: 12, 33, 69, 424, 433

8.1.spi.25. recognize literary elements that shape meaningwithin context (e.g., symbolism, foreshadowing, flashback,irony, mood and tone).

ATE: 208, 443, 513, 635, 679

8.1.spi.26. identify instances of bias and stereotyping in printand non-print contexts.

ATE: 208

8.1.spi.27. recognize the effect of stressed and unstressedsyllables to aid in identifying the meaning of multiple meaningwords.

ATE: 994-95, 996-99

Performance Indicators TeacherAs documented through teacher observation -At Level 1, the student is able to8.1.tpi.1. decode unknown grade level words utilizingpreviously learned strategies to verify the word's meaningwithin the context of the selection.

ATE: 368, 481, 603, 703, 738

8.1.tpi.2. recognize various literary genres (e.g., short stories,novels, plays, legends, poetry, biographies, non-fiction).

ATE: 404, 471, 580, 778, 818

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8.1.tpi.3. express reactions and personal opinions to a selectionor relate the selection to a personal experience.

ATE: 147, 155, 197, 338, 253

8.1.tpi.4. organize prior knowledge using a variety of strategieswhile reading (e.g., pausing, reading ahead, rereading,identifying miscues, and consulting other sources).

ATE: 897-98

8.1.tpi.5. preview the text to establish a purpose for reading, toactivate prior knowledge, and to facilitate the reading process.

ATE: 251, 307, 469, 777, 841

8.1.tpi.6. participate in creative responses to text (e.g., debates,dramatization, speeches).

ATE: 221, 249-392, 794

At Level 2, the student is able to8.1.tpi.7. develop an awareness of literature that reflects adiverse society.

ATE: 6, 83, 201, 219, 229,

8.1.tpi.8. read fluently basic grade appropriate selections. ATE: 44, 59, 74, 89, 1028.1.tpi.9. create and deliver an organized oral presentation usingmultiple sources of information from any content area utilizingvisual aids for contextual support

ATE: 434, 956, 959, 980

8.1.tpi.10. summarize, paraphrase, and evaluate selectedpassages.

ATE: 109, 965, 971

8.1.tpi.11. develop and enhance vocabulary by reading from awide variety of texts and literary genres.

ATE: 45, 111, 167, 239, 304

8.1.tpi.12. make inferences and recognize unstated assumptions. ATE:8.1.tpi.13. make connections among the various literary genres,themes, and print and non-print texts with personal, historical,and cultural experiences.

ATE: 5, 10, 466, 578, 694, 776

8.1.tpi.14 demonstrate how time periods and cultures affectplots/characters in literature.

ATE: 5, 67, 135

8.1.tpi.15. recognize recurring themes in literature. ATE: 5, 9, 52-53, 118-198.1.tpi.16. distinguish between primary and secondary sources. ATE: 969-728.1.tpi.17. identify instances of flashback and foreshadowing. ATE: 635, 638, 986-87At Level 3, the student is able to8.1.tpi.18. define and apply internal (subjective) and external(objective) criteria in making critical evaluation of givenstatements.

ATE: 961-64, 968-69

8.1.tpi.19. create an example of allusion. ATE: 667, 6708.1.tpi.20. differentiate between internal and external conflict ina given passage.

ATE: 264, 271, 805, 816

8.1.tpi.21. determine the significance/meaning of a symbol in aprint or non-print selection.

ATE: 200, 208, 513, 563

8.1.tpi.22. analyze literary elements. ATE:8.1.tpi.23. evaluate reading selections and media sources todetermine their applications to and effect on daily life.

ATE: 967-69

8.1.tpi.24. explore and distinguish between primary andsecondary source documents.

ATE: 969-72

Writing

Content Standard: 2.0The student will develop the structural and creative skills of thewriting process necessary to produce written language that canbe read, presented to, and interpreted by various audiences.Accomplishment:8.2.01 Engage in prewriting, using a variety of strategies.

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a. Continue to generate, focus, and organize ideas throughbrainstorming, literary models, and classroom discussions.

ATE: 241-42, 905-06

b. Use print and non-print materials along with priorknowledge, content area knowledge, and personalexperiences to provide background for writing.

ATE: 905-09

c. Continue to develop writing by using appropriateorganizational strategies, including outlining and othergraphic organizers, to produce a prewriting plan that leadsto writing.

ATE: 113, 168-71, 356, 830

d. Select, limit, and refine a topic. ATE: 904-05, 913

e. Determine appropriate audience (e.g., informal andformal audiences).

ATE: 113, 241, 356, 567

f. Analyze purposes for writing (e.g., to inform, todescribe, to explain, to persuade).

ATE: 903

8.2.02 Write for a variety of audiences and purposes.a. Determine the intended audience (e.g. private or public,informal or formal).

ATE: 113, 241, 356-57

b. Identify the mode, the usage level, and conventions forappropriate sharing of information with the selectedaudience.

ATE: 713, 833, 902, 918-19

c. Continue to write competently in the narrative anddescriptive modes.

ATE: 433, 595, 633, 903-13

d. Write in the expository mode. ATE: 903

e. Continue to write in response to expository prompts. ATE: 903

f. Use the techniques of persuasive writing. ATE: 158, 168, 884-89

g. Write personal reflections to situations, experiences,and events for self and others.

ATE: 601, 619, 671

h. Continue to produce original works of creative andimaginative writings.

ATE: 903

i. Continue to write to acquire knowledge (e.g., express,organize, and clarify thinking, take notes, synthesizeinformation, enhance communication).

ATE: 907, 912-14

8.2.03 Compose drafts of written works.a. Continue to use prewriting plan to guide the first draft. ATE: 49-50, 114-15, 242-43

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b. Continue to write and think freely while drafting. ATE: 49-50, 114-15, 242-43

c. Evaluate the selection of mode based on purpose (i.e.,descriptive, narrative, expository, and persuasive).

ATE: 595, 884-89, 903-04

d. Determine appropriate thesis statement. ATE: 168, 910

e. Present and support sufficient knowledge of topic toreflect background and understanding.

ATE: 904-05, 913

f. Compose the draft with an introduction to engageaudience interest, body paragraphs, and a strong conclusionthat extends the thesis.

ATE: 49-50, 114-15, 242, 298, 356

g. Use precise language including active verbs, vividwords, colorful modifiers, figurative language, imagery,and experiment with incorporating allusion.

ATE: 908, 914

h. Continue to develop sentences that are clear, varied,and appropriate to the audience.

ATE: 48-49, 913-14

8.2.04 Show evidence of and determine appropriaterevisions within the written draft.

a. Revise writing to focus on purpose and audience. ATE: 50-51, 299, 770, 833

b. Evaluate and determine if word choices are appropriatefor the target audience.

ATE: 50, 299, 770, 833, 916

c. Evaluate and revise writing to focus on fluency ofthought and coherence (e.g., sentences and paragraphs flowsmoothly together, evidence of syntactic variety/variedsentence structures).

ATE: 50-51, 299, 770, 833

d. Evaluate and determine the effectiveness of theorganization of the written draft (e.g., chronological orderor sequence maintained, creative introduction, appropriatethesis, supportive statements, and effective transitions).

ATE: 568-69, 769, 832, 902

e. Evaluate and revise writing to insure consistentdevelopment of ideas (e.g., appropriate and logicalreasoning, key ideas covered, evidence of support for ideas,examples used, supportive statistics).

ATE: 50-51, 299, 770, 833

f. Analyze writing for clarity of thought. ATE: 50, 299, 771, 833, 916

8.2.05 Include editing before the completion of finishedwork.

a. Continue to edit for elements of language. ATE: 922-49

b. Continue to proofread using prior knowledge andexperience, reference materials, and technology.

ATE: 51, 174, 833, 902, 917

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c. Continue to create readable documents. ATE: 174, 512, 833, 902, 917-18

d. Use appropriate proofreading symbols. ATE: 917

8.2.06 Evaluate own and others' writing.a. Continue to develop and use a rubric for evaluation. ATE: 902, 903, 907, 915

b. Continue to make appropriate suggestions forimprovement, using the Tennessee state assessment rubric.

ATE: 902, 903, 907, 917-18

c. Continue to recognize the strengths, errors, andchallenges in peers writing and make appropriate commentsof praise and suggestions for improvement.

ATE: 50, 299, 769, 832, 902, 915

d. Continue to evaluate improvements made in own workand others' work.

ATE: 115, 176-77, 832, 902, 915

8.2.07 Experience numerous publishing opportunities.

a. Publish a final draft. ATE: 49, 1114, 242, 298, 356

b. Use multiple sources of technology to prepare andpresent work and to add photographs, graphs, tables, and/orillustrations to support the focus of the work.

ATE: 78, 238, 314, 454, 967-69, 980

c. Identify opportunities for publication (e.g., local andnational contests, Internet websites, newspaper/periodicals).

ATE: 771, 833, 902, 918-19

8.2.08 Write in the expository mode.a. Continue to write in response to expository prompts,including frequent opportunities for timed writing.

ATE: 853, 859, 868

b. Continue to write frequently in the expository mode. ATE: 853, 859, 868

c. State a well-developed, relevant thesis. ATE: 168, 910

d. Support thesis with elaboration, using supportingdetails, supporting examples and/or anecdotes.

ATE: 168, 826, 910

e. Analyze and select the most appropriate organizationalformat for an expository essay.

ATE: 903

f. Continue to use models of expository writing toenhance the writing process and further understanding ofthe expository mode.

ATE: 682, 903

g. Analyze and select appropriate title that creatively andaccurately reflects the topic.

ATE: 910-11

h. Analyze writing for audience engaging introductoryparagraphs and for strong and clinching concludingparagraphs.

ATE: 376, 564, 908-10, 914

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paragraphs.

i. Continue to support and/or illustrate key ideas clearly. ATE: 909, -911

j. Incorporate varied expository structures (e.g., problem/solution, compare/contrast).

ATE: 682, 787, 914-15

k. Continue to apply the Tennessee state assessmentrubric to an expository essay.

ATE: 917-18

l. Continue to demonstrate facility in the use of language. ATE: 91, 136, 601, 619, 787, 903

8.2.09 Write frequently across all content areas.a. Continue to produce a variety of creative worksutilizing knowledge from the content areas (e.g., journals,magazines, poems, letters to the editor, dialogues betweenfamous people, WebPages).

ATE: 186, 584, 764, 766-68, 785

b. Continue to produce a variety of technical worksutilizing knowledge from the content areas (e.g.,explanations of projects and problems, science experimentprojects, demonstrations, editorials, documents).

ATE: 764, 803, 830-31

c. Continue to research topics and organize gatheredinformation from the content areas into presentabledocuments.

ATE: 201, 764, 773, 787

d. Continue to compose and respond to original questionsand/or problems from all content areas.

ATE: 191, 773, 787

e. Continue to respond expressively and creatively to thearts, incorporating the arts into all content areas.

ATE: 200, 749, 762, 764

f. Continue to react and respond to content areainformation in creative ways (e.g., create graphic, non-printessays; write poems, create works of art).

ATE: 186, 198, 201, 764, 787

a. Enrich writing with information gathered from thevarious content areas (e.g., support literature with socialstudies ideas, math principles with art compositions).

ATE: 508, 664, 711, 714, 741,

8.2.10 Write expressively in order to develop an effectivewriting style.

a. Continue to view, read, and/or listen to examples ofvarious writing styles.

ATE: 180, 827, 776

b. Demonstrate the use of vivid words (e.g., active verbs,figurative language, imagery, and explore using allusions).

ATE: 337, 876, 908, 939

c. Analyze the use of sensory details, concrete examples,and anecdotes within works.

ATE: 337, 876, 908, 939

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d. Continue to use a variety of sentence structures. ATE: 458, 926-27

e. Analyze the effects of varied sentence structures. ATE: 787

f. Select appropriate transitional devices. ATE: 912, 914

g. Continue to select appropriate transitional devices toenhance organization and unity of work.

ATE: 682, 912, 914-15

h. Explore tone as a way to develop a unique andconsistent voice in original works.

ATE: 109, 237, 255, 447

8.2.11 Write in response to literature.a. Continue to express ideas or opinions through creativeresponses to a variety of literary forms and genres.

ATE: 158, 402

b. Analyze through writing an understanding of theelements of literature (e.g., plot, conflicts, setting, andcharacters).

ATE: 466-467

c. Express ideas or opinions creatively through responsesto a variety of literary forms.

ATE: 166, 181-86, 402, 787

d. Continue to compare and contrast plots, conflicts,themes, and characters, from a variety of literary selectionsand genres.

ATE: 165, 786, 912-15

e. Write and develop creative, imaginative, and originalresponses to literature to enhance and to extend the literaryexperience (e.g. songs, dances, art, stories, puns, limericks,design memorials).

ATE: 409, 564, 584, 785

8.2.12 Write in a variety of forms and genres.a. Write works of fiction in the descriptive or narrativemodes (e.g., stories, scripts).

ATE: 433, 595, 633, 794, 804

b. Write poetry (e.g., haiku, bio-poem, limericks, ballads). ATE: 11, 110, 112-17, 433

c. Write biographical/autobiographical sketches, usingspecific actions, significant details, relevant dialogue, andanecdotes supported by citation of source information.

ATE: 46-51, 660

d. Continue to write friendly and business letters. ATE: 231, 872, 976-77

e. Write, share, and evaluate reflective pieces used toclarify thinking and to determine understanding.

ATE: 117, 572, 771, 883, 916-17

f. Write and recognize works of non-fiction. ATE: 776, 787, 791, 794

g. Write personal essays. ATE: 601, 619, 671

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h. Write text related to career development (e.g., jobapplications, business letters).

ATE: 44, 231, 872

i. Compose focused, concise, and accurate technicalwriting to instruct another in a multi-step process.

ATE: 830-31

j. Analyze and assemble gathered information into aresearch paper or document.

ATE: 908, 914, 963

k. Write a persuasive paper with a clearly focusedargument and relevant supporting details.

ATE: 168-78 ,884-89, 903

8.2.13 Locate and analyze information to prepare writtenpresentations or reports.

a. Continue to use dictionaries, thesauruses and otherword referenced materials.

ATE: 661, 899-900, 966

b. Continue to utilize resources available in the mediacenter.

ATE: 314, 967-69

c. Use interviews, surveys, polls, graphs, and illustrationsin writing and presenting as support for research.

ATE: 794, 804, 860, 885, 967

d. Continue to use computer technology to findinformation, to create reports and presentations, and tosupport research.

ATE: 78, 238, 454, 467, 584, 971

e. Continue to use examples and details collected from allavailable and reliable resources.

ATE: 324, 584, 887, 890,

f. Give credit for both quoted and paraphrasedinformation in a bibliography.

ATE: 971

g. Evaluate Website sources for reliability. ATE: 967-69

Eighth Grade Benchmarks/Indicators Writing

*These performance indicators will be assessed by theTennessee Writing Assessment.Performance Indicators StateAs documented through state assessment -At Level 1, the student is able to8.2.spi.1. complete a graphic organizer (i.e., clustering, listing,mapping, webbing) with information from notes for a writingselection.

ATE: 251, 367, 906-07

8.2.spi.2. select appropriate time-order or transitionalwords/phrases to enhance the flow of a writing sample.

ATE: 912, 914

8.2.spi.3. identify the purpose for writing (i.e., to inform, todescribe to explain, to persuade) .

ATE: 903

8.2.spi.4. identify the targeted audience for a selected passage. ATE: 113, 241, 356, 5678.2.spi.5. rearrange multi-paragraphed work in a logical andcoherent order.

ATE: 376, 564, 909-10

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8.2.spi.6. identify sentences irrelevant to a paragraph's theme orflow.

ATE: 909-10

*8.2.spi.7. select, limit, and refine a topic. ATE: 904-05, 913*8.2.spi.8. write well-organized and coherently developedparagraphs.

ATE: 376, 564, 909-10

*8.2.spi.9. reorganize paragraphs into well-organized andcoherently developed essays.

ATE: 376, 564, 909-10

*8.2.spi.10. integrate all steps of the writing process:prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing.

ATE: 113, 168, 356, 380, 902

At Level 2, the student is able to8.2.spi.11. identify levels of reliability among resources (e.g.,eyewitness account, newspaper account, supermarket tabloidaccount, Internet source).

ATE: 199, 353, 967

8.2.spi.12. identify individual written selections as technical,narrative, persuasive, and /or descriptive in mode.

ATE: 46, 112, 168, 240, 296, 355, 876

8.2.spi.13. select an appropriate thesis statement for a writingsample.

ATE: 168, 910

8.2.spi.14. select the most appropriate title for a selection. ATE: 171-728.2.spi.15. select illustrations, explanations, anecdotes,descriptions, and/or facts to in a paragraph.

ATE: 325, 377, 385

8.2.spi.16. choose the supporting sentence that best fits thecontext and flow of ideas in a paragraph.

ATE: 171, 795, 910

*8.2.spi.17. write well-developed, organized and coherentessays in response to expository prompts.

ATE: 46, 112, 168, 240, 296

*8.2.spi.18 support key ideas with explanations, illustrations,anecdotes and descriptions, and facts.

ATE: 325, 377, 385

*8.2.spi.19. revise and edit writings for the elements oflanguage.

ATE: 50, 299, 770, 833. 916

*8.2.spi.20. choose vivid words, active voice verbs, figurativelanguage, imagery, colorful modifiers, and sensory details toenhance writings.

ATE: 876, 908, 937, 939

*8.2.spi.21. compose clear and correctly punctuated complexsentences to enrich syntactic variety.

ATE: 568-569, 684-686

At Level 3, the student is able to8.2.spi.21. select vivid words to strengthen a description(adjective or adverb) within a writing sample or a passage.

ATE: 103, 313, 339, 433

Performance Indicators TeacherAs documented through teacher observation -At Level 1, the student is able to8.2.tpi.1. write with a sense of audience and purpose. ATE: 113, 241, 356, 567, 9038.2.tpi.2. produce a final revised draft suitable for sharing. ATE: 50, 115, 243, 298, 3568.2.tpi.3. use the steps of the writing process. ATE: 47, 356, 457, 9028.2.tpi.4. respond routinely and competently to narrative anddescriptive prompts.

ATE: 432, 433, 453, 478

8.2.tpi.5. generate, focus, and organize ideas throughbrainstorming, graphic organizers, literary models, and classdiscussions.

ATE: 48, 159, 254-42

8.2.tpi.6. evaluate writing through the use of the TennesseeWriting Assessment rubric and/or teacher and student createdrubrics.

ATE: 50, 299, 769, 832

8.2.tpi.7. write frequently across the content areas gatheringideas and information from the various disciplines to enrichwriting.

ATE: 31, 60, 81, 106, 231

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8.2.tpi.8. write frequently from timed expository prompts. ATE: 230, 315, 345At Level 2, the student is able to8.2.tpi.9. write in a variety of literary (e.g., prose, poetry,drama) informational (e.g., technical writing, commercials), andexpressive (e.g., responses to literature, journals, diaries)modes.

ATE: 1, 106, 584, 597, 595

8.2.tpi.10. write to express creativity, to share ideas andopinions; to reflect on situations, experiences, and/or events; toclarify thinking; and to acquire knowledge.

ATE: 78, 584, 595

8.2.tpi.11. write a research report using multiple sources. ATE: 238, 3248.2.tpi.12. use the techniques of persuasive writing. ATE: 168-788.2.tpi.13. incorporate varied expository structures (e.g.,compare and contrast, process analysis, and problem solving).

ATE: 135, 263, 292, 296

8.2.tpi.14. conduct self-evaluation through review of ownwriting.

ATE: 119, 176-77, 832, 902

8.2.tpi.15. write in response to literature. ATE: 231-32, 2388.2.tpi.16. write frequently in the expository mode. ATE: 78, 401, 401, 4238.2.tpi.17. use appropriate proofreading symbols. ATE: 917At Level 3, the student is able to8.2.tpi.18. experiment with allusion in writing to support,explain, and/or to illustrate key ideas.

ATE: 668, 670

8.2.tpi.19. use multiple sources of technology to prepare andpresent works, and to add photographs, graphs, tables, and/orillustrations to support the focus of the writing.

ATE: 78, 238, 671

8.2.tpi.20. react and respond to content area information increative ways (e.g., create graphic representations, non-printessays, compose poems, create works of art).

ATE: 67, 238, 595

8.2.tpi.21. explore the techniques of persuasive writing. ATE: 158, 168-78, 884-898.2.tpi.22. write career related materials, including business andjob applications.

ATE: 231, 872, 976-77

8.2.tpi.23. explore tone as a way to develop a unique andconsistent voice in original writings.

ATE: 104, 109, 237, 453, 619, 993

8.2.tpi.24. give credit for both quoted and paraphrasedinformation in a bibliography.

ATE: 970

8.2.tpi.25. draw conclusions from evidence within the text. ATE: 172, 457, 914

Elements of LanguageContent Standard: 3.0The student will use standard English conventions and properspelling as appropriate to speaking and writing.Learning Expectations:Accomplishment:8.3.01 Demonstrate knowledge of standard English usage.

a. Use nouns appropriately (e.g., predicate nouns,appositives).

ATE: 198-99, 208, 923

b. Use verbs appropriately (e.g., agree with thesubject in person and number, verbs that take objects,linking verbs with predicate nouns and adjectives; verbphrases; consistency in verb tense; regular and irregularverb forms; correct use of both simple and perfecttenses; proper use of active and passive voice,subjunctive mood).

ATE: 67, 103, 113-14, 923, 937

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subjunctive mood).

c. Use pronouns appropriately (e.g., use of properpronoun case: objective, nominative, and possessive;pronoun-antecedent agreement).

ATE: 619-20, 922, 928-29

d. Use adjectives appropriately (e.g., correctcomparative and superlative forms, predicateadjectives, adjective phrases and clauses).

ATE: 103, 409, 671, 922, 939

e. Use adverbs appropriately (e.g., correctcomparative and superlative forms, adverb phrases andclauses, conjunctive adverbs).

ATE: 409, 922, 939, 942

f. Use conjunctions appropriately (e.g.,coordinating, correlative, and subordinatingconjunctions to combine sentences and sentenceelements).

ATE: 5, 922, 939-40

g. Use prepositions and prepositional phrasesappropriately (e.g., recognize them as adjective oradverb modifiers and place properly within thesentence).

ATE: 434, 922-24

h. Use interjections appropriately. ATE: 922, 940

i. Recognize and correct usage errors (e.g.,subject/verb agreement, pronoun case, doublenegatives, comparative and superlative forms,troublesome word groups {where/were,which/that/who, who/whom}).

ATE: 297-98, 619-20, 932

j. Compare regional differences in dialect,speech, and usage and explore reasons for thosedifferences.

ATE: 137, 151, 985

8.3.02 Demonstrate knowledge of standard Englishmechanics.

a. Continue the correct use of capitalization (e.g.,titles, business letters, quotations, proper nouns andadjectives).

ATE: 671, 945-947

b. Demonstrate the correct use of commas (e.g.,after introductory words, phrases, and clauses; to set offappositives and interrupters, before a coordinatingconjunction joining independent clauses to formcompound sentences); colons (e.g., business letters,before a long or formal quotation); semicolons (e.g.,combining sentences, between items in a series of itemsalready containing commas, before conjunctiveadverbs); underlining and italicizing (e.g., titles, certainwords, letters, figures, foreign words); quotation marks(e.g., to set off dialogue, around certain titles, correctuse with end marks); hyphens; and end marks.

ATE: 44, 943-45

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use with end marks); hyphens; and end marks.

c. Continue to form both singular and pluralpossessives using apostrophes.

ATE: 941, 944

d. Continue to write legibly. ATE: 223

8.3.03 Demonstrate knowledge of standard English spelling.a. Spell high-frequency words correctly. ATE: 947, 949

b. Spell words correctly appropriate to gradelevel.

ATE:

c. Spell correctly words commonly used incontent specific vocabulary.

ATE: 947-949

d. Recognize incorrectly spelled words within thecontext of sentences or phrases.

ATE: 947-949

e. Spell correctly affixed words and use affixes asa spelling aid (e.g., happy+ness= happiness).

ATE: 900-901, 947-48

f. Proofread and edit for spelling accuracy usingappropriate strategies to confirm spelling and to correcterrors.

ATE: 51, 136, 174, 833, 902

g. Spell correctly commonly used foreign wordsand expressions.

ATE: 948-49

h. Determine correct spelling of words utilizingelectronic and print tools (e.g., spell check, dictionaries,word walls, charts).

ATE: 647, 661, 899-900, 966

i. Maintain a consciousness toward correctspelling across the content areas.

ATE: 223, 232, 947-49

8.3.04 Demonstrate knowledge of correct sentencestructure.

a. Correct run-on sentences by using correctpunctuation, forming separate sentences, usingcoordinating or subordinating clauses.

ATE: 386, 929, 942

b. Correct sentence fragments by supplying themissing sentence elements.

ATE: 49, 601, 929

c. Combine sentences using a variety of sentencecombining strategies.

ATE: 458, 926-27

d. Identify the subject and predicate of invertedorder sentences.

ATE: 221-222

22

e. Use subordination, apposition, coordination,and appropriate phrases (prepositional, transitional) toindicate clear relationships within a sentence orparagraph.

ATE: 458-59, 928-29, 942

f. Recognize and use appropriately gerund andparticipial phrases.

ATE: 928-29, 942

g. Distinguish between clauses (independent andsubordinate) and phrases (verb, adjective, adverb,appositive, prepositional, verbal).

ATE: 385, 942-43

Eighth Grade Benchmarks/Indicators (Elements of

Language)Performance Indicators StateAs documented through state assessment -At Level 1, the student is able to8.3.spi.1. identify the correct use of commas (i.e., compoundsentences, coordinating conjunctions, introductory words,appositives, and interrupters) within context.

ATE: 943-45

8.3.spi.2. recognize usage errors occurring within context (e.g.,subject/verb agreement, pronoun case, double negatives,comparative/superlative forms, troublesome words: where,were; which, that; who, who, whom) within context.

ATE: 297-98, 931, 933-34

8.3.spi.3. identify the correct placement of prepositions andprepositional phrases within context.

ATE: 928-29, 942

8.3.spi.4. select the most appropriate method to correct a run-onsentence (i.e., conjunctions, semicolons, and periods to join orseparate elements) within context.

ATE: 356-57, 784, 922, 929-36

At Level 2, the student is able to8.3.spi.5. identify the correct use of nouns (i.e.,common/proper, singular/plural, possessives, direct/indirectobjects, predicate noun), pronouns (i.e., reflexive, interrogative,and demonstrative), verbs (i.e., action/linking, regular/irregular,agreement, perfect tenses, and verb phrases), adjectives (i.e.,common/proper, comparative and superlative forms, adjectiveclauses), adverbs (i.e., comparative and superlative forms),interjections and conjunctions (i.e., coordinating, correlative,and subordinating) within context.

ATE: 922-49

8.3.spi.6. identify within context a variety of appropriatesentence-combining techniques (i.e., comma + coordinatingconjunction, use of semicolon, introductory phrases or clauses).

ATE: 569, 922, 926, 930

8.3.spi.7. identify the correct use of appositives and appositivephrases and infinitives and infinitive phrases within context.

ATE: 923, 940, 942

8.3.spi.8. select the appropriate use of underlining/italicizingwith titles, specific words, numbers, letters, and figures.

ATE: 943-45

8.3.spi.9. identify correctly or incorrectlly spelled words incontext.

ATE: 947-48

At Level 3, the student is able to

8.3.spi.10. recognize the appropriate use of gerund andparticipial phrases.

ATE: 942

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8.3.spi.11. select the correct pronoun/antecedent agreement forpersonal pronouns within context.

ATE: 932-33, 936

Performance Indicators TeacherAs documented through teacher observation -At Level 1, the student is able to8.3.tpi.1. continue to write legibly and to spell grade levelwords correctly.

ATE: 947-48

8.3.tpi.2. use conventional language structures in both oral andwritten language.

ATE: 956

8.3.tpi.3. recognize action verb and linking verb patterns. ATE: 923, 9378.3.tpi.4. be aware of correct sentence structure, including theplacement of words, phrases, and clauses used as modifiers.

ATE: 648, 909, 930, 933

At Level 2, the student is able to8.3.tpi.5. recognize and self-correct errors in grammar, usage,and spelling.

ATE: 931-35

8.3.tpi.6. place prepositional phrases correctly within thesentence according to their functions as modifiers.

ATE: 922-24, 939

8.3.tpi.7. maintain a consciousness toward correct spellingacross the content areas.

ATE: 947-948

8.3.tpi.8. proofread and edit own work regularly forcapitalization, punctuation, language structure, and vocabulary.

ATE: 671, 943, 945-47

8.3.tpi.9. demonstrate the correct use of commas, semicolons,underlining/italicizing, and colons.

ATE: 347, 770-11, 944

8.3.tpi.10. use singular and plural possessives correctly. ATE: 941, 9448.3.tpi.11. use and punctuate correctly constructed dialoguewhen writing.

ATE: 44, 945

At Level 3, the student is able to8.3.tpi.12. recognize and use the subjunctive mood whenappropriate.

ATE: 936-939

8.3.tpi.13. write using a consistent voice (active, passive). ATE: 595-596, 9308.3.tpi.14. continue to be aware of and sensitive to variations inlanguage among regions, ethnic groups and cultures.

ATE: 955