CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.11-12.1b
The Standard
Work with peers to promote civil, democratic discussions and decision-making, set clear goals and deadlines, and establish individual roles as needed.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts
What This Standard Means
Students need to run a productive group discussion, not just take turns talking. They should help set the purpose, agree on deadlines, assign roles when useful, and keep the tone respectful when people disagree. They also need to help the group make decisions fairly, using evidence and clear reasons.
Mastery looks like students naming a goal, tracking time, inviting quieter voices, disagreeing without personal attacks, and ending with a clear decision or next step. Students often get stuck when one person dominates, roles are vague, deadlines are ignored, or “being civil” means avoiding hard disagreement instead of handling it well.
Ways to Teach It
- Give groups a controversial school policy scenario, role cards, a timer, and a decision sheet they must complete by consensus or vote.
- Ask students to write: What makes disagreement productive, and what should a group member do when talk becomes disrespectful?
- During a five-minute group task, use a checklist for goal stated, roles assigned, deadline named, voices included, and decision recorded.
- Connect the skill to a city council meeting by having students review an agenda, assign roles, and simulate a public comment decision.
Before This Standard
If students are struggling here, check these first.
Plan a Lesson for CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.11-12.1b
Generate a complete lesson plan aligned to this standard, with objectives, activities, and materials. Free, no account needed.
Related Standards
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.8.1b
Follow rules for collegial discussions and decision-making, track progress toward specific goals and deadlines, and define individual roles as needed.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.6.1b
Follow rules for collegial discussions, set specific goals and deadlines, and define individual roles as needed.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.7.1b
Follow rules for collegial discussions, track progress toward specific goals and deadlines, and define individual roles as needed.