CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.4.3c
The Standard
Differentiate between contexts that call for formal English (e.g., presenting ideas) and situations where informal discourse is appropriate (e.g., small-group discussion).
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts
What This Standard Means
Students need to know that language changes with the situation. They should be able to choose formal English for presentations, letters, and speaking to unfamiliar adults, and use a more relaxed style during peer talk or casual group work.
Mastery looks like explaining why one version fits a setting better than another, then revising words and tone to match. Students often get stuck thinking formal means “fancy” or that informal means “wrong.” They need practice matching audience, purpose, and setting.
Ways to Teach It
- Sort sentence cards into formal and informal piles, then have students rewrite two cards for the opposite setting.
- Ask students to write two responses to the same question, one for the principal and one for a best friend.
- Give four short scenarios and ask students to label each formal or informal, with one reason.
- Compare a text message to a thank-you note, then list the language choices that make each fit its purpose.
Plan a Lesson for CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.4.3c
Generate a complete lesson plan aligned to this standard, with objectives, activities, and materials. Free, no account needed.
Related Standards
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.5.6
Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, using formal English when appropriate to task and situation.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.8.6
Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.7.6
Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.4.6
Differentiate between contexts that call for formal English (e.g., presenting ideas) and situations where informal discourse is appropriate (e.g., small-group d...