CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.2.1a
The Standard
Follow agreed-upon rules for discussions (e.g., gaining the floor in respectful ways, listening to others with care, speaking one at a time about the topics and texts under discussion).
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students use class discussion routines to know when to speak and when to listen. They take turns, stay focused on the shared topic, and respond respectfully to classmates.
What Mastery Looks Like
- A student waits for a turn, speaks clearly, and stays on topic. The student can respond to a classmate’s comment in a way that shows careful listening.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may call out because they think having an answer means they can speak immediately. They may also appear quiet while planning their own response instead of listening to the speaker.
How to Assess It
- Hold a three-minute partner discussion about a read-aloud. Use a checklist to record whether each student waits, listens, and responds to a partner’s idea.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Give pairs a talking stick and picture cards, then have students pass the stick before sharing one observation about each picture.
Ask, “How can you show a classmate that you listened?” and have students write or share two specific actions.
Play Turn-Taking Challenge, where groups earn a point each time speakers wait, stay on topic, and build on the previous comment.
Connect discussion rules to a family meal by role-playing how people can join the conversation without interrupting.
Free download
Printable SL.2.1a Worksheet
A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.2.1a, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.
PDF, US Letter, prints cleanly in black and white.
Download the worksheetLearning progression
Where This Standard Sits
Before This Standard
If students are struggling here, check these first.
What This Unlocks
Mastery here sets students up for these next.
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Related Standards
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.5.1b
Follow agreed-upon rules for discussions and carry out assigned roles.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.3.1b
The 3rd Grade version of this standard.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.K.1a
Follow agreed-upon rules for discussions (e.g., listening to others and taking turns speaking about the topics and texts under discussion).
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