Benchmarks for Reading 7

A.1. Uses effective reading strategies to achieve their purposes in reading.

• Determines the meaning of unfamiliar words by applying strategies such as context clues, word parts, origins, and reference sources.
• Uses knowledge of the special features of texts, such as headings and bold face, or the way the text is organized, such as time order or cause and effect, to aid comprehension.
• Adjusts reading to fit purposes including finding information, understanding different viewpoints, making decisions, or enjoying the experience of reading.
• Selects, summarizes, paraphrases, analyzes or evaluates a particular passage in order to accomplish a purpose they have set as readers.

• Identifies the features which define literature such as conflict, characterization and point of view.
• Analyzes the effect that  the characters, plot, setting, language, and point of view have on a piece of literature.
• Develops a knowledge of the genres (types) of literature, such as essays, poems, plays, short stories and novels, to draw upon when interpreting the meaning of a particular work.
• Develops a criteria in order to evaluate  selections and can explain his/her opinions.

• Interprets and responds to texts which represent diverse American backgrounds and cultures of the world.
• Identifies common themes and issues (historical, cultural, social) in literature.
• Evaluates the theme and main ideas of a selection considering its audience and purpose.

• Interprets and uses resources such as charts, graphs, tables and schedules.
• Compares the information from different sources and judges its accuracy and usefulness.
• Identifies and explains the main ideas in informational texts.
• Distinguishes between the facts found in various sources and the conclusions draw from them.

• Writes a complete expository piece with supporting detail, clear organization and appropriate language.
• Writes clear and pertinent responses to verbal or visual selections that explains and interprets the experience.
• Writes a persuasive piece, such as a letter promoting a particular action, with reasons and support.
• Writes for a variety of audiences adapting style and content to match the readers.

• Produces multiple drafts that show the ability to generate, focus, organize and revise.
• Given a specified amount of time, produces a well developed, organized and effective written response.

• Uses proper structure for sentences, paragraphs and essays.
• Utilizes standard forms of punctuation, grammar, and usage.
• Applies skills in spelling to written and computer generated compositions.

• Develops and delivers a report that is clear and organized in expressing ideas.
• Constructs and presents an argument/debate with supporting evidence.
• Performs oral reading of prose, poetry and drama.
• Prepares and conducts interviews.

• Consults dictionaries, thesauruses and other reference materials for use in speech or writing.
• Explains how writers and speakers choose words and use figurative language to achieve specific effects.
• Chooses words purposefully and evaluates the choice of words used to inform or persuade.

• Operates computers for word processing and storing files.
• Accesses electronic reference and information resources.
• Generates, sends and receives electronic communications.

• Forms questions and determines relevant sources of information.
• Uses multiple sources for locating pertinent information.
• Conducts interviews and uses specialized reference materials when appropriate.
• Compiles, organizes and evaluates the information gathered
Produces a report that presents findings, draws sound conclusions, follows appropriate conventions of presentation, and gives proper credit to sources.

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Updated 2003