CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.1.1

ELA1st GradeConventions of Standard English

The Standard

Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.

Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts · Language Standards

What This Standard Means

Students need to speak and write in complete, clear sentences most of the time. They should use nouns, verbs, pronouns, adjectives, conjunctions, articles, prepositions, and common sentence patterns in ways that make sense. They also need to match singular and plural nouns with verbs and use basic verb tenses correctly.

Mastery looks like a first grader rereading a sentence and hearing when it sounds wrong. Students often get stuck with missing verbs, run-on sentences, mixed-up pronouns, and tense shifts like “Yesterday I go.” Oral practice helps before writing because many errors show up first in speech.

Ways to Teach It

Give pairs word cards labeled noun, verb, and adjective, then have them build and read silly complete sentences aloud.
Ask students to write about yesterday’s recess using three sentences, then circle the verbs and check the tense.
Read five student-made sentences aloud, and have students show thumbs up or fix-it fingers for each grammar choice.
Bring in a lunch menu and have students say complete sentences using articles, adjectives, and plural nouns, such as “The crunchy carrots are orange.”