Students read and respond to historically or culturally significant works of world literature, particularly American and British literature. They clarify the ideas and connect them to other literary works. The quality and complexity of the materials to be read by students are illustrated in The California Reading List . Students write clear, coherent, and focused essays. Writing exhibits awareness of audience and purpose.
Essays contain formal introductions, bodies of supporting evidence, and conclusions.
Students successfully use the stages of the writing process, as needed. Students write narrative, expository, persuasive, and descriptive text of at least 500 to 700 words. Student writing demonstrates a command of standard English and the research, organizational, and drafting strategies outlined in Writing Standard 1.0. Students write and speak with a command of standard English conventions that are appropriate to each grade level. Students deliver focused, coherent presentations that convey ideas clearly and relate to the background and interests of the audience.