CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.11-12.4

ELAGrades 11–12Craft and Structure

The Standard

Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in the text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone, including words with multiple meanings or language that is particularly fresh, engaging, or beautiful. (Include Shakespeare as well as other authors.)

Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts · Reading Standards for Literature

What This Standard Means

Students need to figure out what words and phrases mean in context, not just from a dictionary. They should notice figurative language, connotation, multiple meanings, and how a writer’s exact word choice shapes tone, mood, and theme.

Mastery looks like a student pointing to a specific word, explaining its possible meanings, and showing how it changes the reader’s understanding. Students often get stuck by paraphrasing only, missing tone shifts, or labeling language as “positive” or “negative” without explaining why.

Ways to Teach It

  • Give pairs a Shakespeare sonnet and colored pencils to mark words with double meanings, then annotate how each meaning changes the speaker’s tone.
  • Ask students to write: Which single word in this passage carries the most weight, and what would change if it were replaced?
  • Use a two-minute exit ticket with one quoted phrase, asking for its literal meaning, connotation, and effect on tone.
  • Bring in a song lyric or ad slogan, then have students explain how one word choice changes the audience’s reaction.

Before This Standard

If students are struggling here, check these first.

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Related Standards

Standard text verified against corestandards.org on July 10, 2026.

Page updated July 10, 2026.

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