Distinguish between apparent fact and opinion in nonfiction texts. Use discussions with peers as a way of understanding information. Identify complex structures in informational texts and the relationships between the concepts and details in those structures using texts from various disciplines. Analyze and synthesize the concepts and details in informational texts. Explain how new information from a text changes personal knowledge.
Effective communication can improve the work of writers and speakers.
Students will use a wide range of strategies to address different audiences for a variety of purposes. Students will write or speak for reflective, creative and informational purposes. Ask pertinent questions during writing conferences and when working alone, using knowledge of personal writing strategies, strengths, and weaknesses to improve one's own writing. Reflect on, evaluate, revise, and edit a sequence of drafts to improve and polish finished work. Use planning, drafting, and revising to produce, on demand, a well-developed, organized piece that demonstrates effective language use, voice, and command of mechanics.