CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.K.4a
The Standard
Identify new meanings for familiar words and apply them accurately (e.g., knowing duck is a bird and learning the verb to duck).
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts
What This Standard Means
Students need to notice when a word they already know is being used in a new way. They should use picture clues, sentence clues, gestures, and classroom talk to figure out the new meaning, then try the word correctly in speech or drawing.
Mastery looks like a child hearing “duck under the table” and knowing it means move down, not the animal. Students often get stuck on the first meaning they learned. They may also repeat the word without showing they understand the new meaning.
Ways to Teach It
- Act out word cards like duck, wave, bat, and park, then sort each card by its two meanings with picture matches.
- Ask, “What does the word bat mean in each sentence?” using one animal sentence and one baseball sentence.
- Show two pictures for one word, read a sentence, and have students point to the meaning that fits.
- During recess talk, name words with two meanings, like slide or swing, and have students show both meanings.
Plan a Lesson for CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.K.4a
Generate a complete lesson plan aligned to this standard, with objectives, activities, and materials. Free, no account needed.
What This Unlocks
Mastery here sets students up for these next.
Related Standards
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.2.5
Demonstrate understanding of word relationships and nuances in word meanings.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.11-12.4b
Identify and correctly use patterns of word changes that indicate different meanings or parts of speech (e.g., conceive, conception, conceivable).
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.1.5
With guidance and support from adults, demonstrate understanding of word relationships and nuances in word meanings.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.4.6
Acquire and use accurately grade-appropriate general academic and domain-specific words and phrases, including those that signal precise actions, emotions, or s...