Identify word meanings using a variety of strategies, including: using context clues (e.g., definition, restatement, example, contrast), using structural analysis (e.g., base words, roots, affixes), determining word origins (etymology), and using electr onic and print dictionaries, thesauruses, glossaries

Identify common abbreviations, symbols, acronyms, and multiple-meaning words

RESOURCE:
http://acronymfinder.com/
http://www.instructorweb.com/languagearts.asp

Identify the meanings of idioms and analogies

Identify and explain story elements, including: theme development, character development, relationship of word choice and mood, and plot sequence (e.g., exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, resolution)

Answer literal and inferential questions in oral and written responses about ideas and information in grade-appropriate texts, including: fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and songs

Demonstrate understanding of information in grade-appropriate texts using a variety of strategies, including: sequencing events and steps in a process, summarizing and paraphrasing information, identifying stated and implied main ideas and supporting details for each, comparing and contrasting literary elements and ideas, making simple inferences and drawing conclusions, predicting the outcome of a story or situation with reasonable justification, and identifying literary devices

Use technical information and other available resources (e.g., software programs, manuals) to solve problems

Develop grade-appropriate compositions on student- or teacher-selected topics that include the following: word choices (diction) appropriate to the identified audience and/or purpose, vocabulary selected to clarify meaning, create images, and set a tone, information/ideas selected to engage the interest of the reader, clear voice (individual personality), and variety in sentence structure

Use standard English punctuation, including: parentheses and commas in direct quotations, commas to set off appositives and introductory phrases, and use quotation marks around dialogue

Apply knowledge of parts of speech in writing, including: using same verb tense throughout when appropriate and selecting and using specific nouns, pronouns, and verbs for clarity

Incorporate accurate spelling and use a variety of resources (e.g., glossaries, dictionaries, thesauruses, spell check) to find correct spellings

Use complete sentences and standard English grammar, diction, syntax, and pronunciation when speaking

Deliver formal and informal presentations for a variety of purposes, including: book reports, personal experiences, and explanations of projects

Locate and select information using a variety of organizational features in grade-appropriate resources, including: complex reference sources (e.g., almanacs, atlases, newspapers, magazines, brochures, map legends, prefaces, appendices), electronic storage devices (e.g., CD-ROMs, diskettes, software, drives), and frequently accessed and bookmarked Web addresses

Locate and integrate information from grade-appropriate resources, including: multiple printed texts (e.g., encyclopedias, atlases, library catalogs, specialized dictionaries, almanacs, technical encyclopedias) and electronic sources (e.g., Web sites, databases, audio and video tapes, films, documentaries) for use in researching a topic

Locate, gather, and select information using data-gathering strategies, including: surveying, interviewing, and paraphrasing

Generate grade-appropriate research reports that include information presented in a variety of forms, including: visual representations of data/information, graphic organizers (e.g., outlines, timelines, charts, webs), and bibliographies

Give credit for borrowed information following acceptable use policy, including: integrating quotations and citations, using endnotes, and creating bibliographies and/or works cited lists