CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.2.3
The Standard
Ask and answer questions about what a speaker says in order to clarify comprehension, gather additional information, or deepen understanding of a topic or issue.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts · Speaking and Listening Standards
What This Standard Means
Students need to listen to a speaker, notice when something is unclear, and ask a question that helps them understand more. They also need to answer questions about what they heard using details from the speaker, not guesses or unrelated ideas.
Mastery looks like a student saying, “Can you explain what you mean by habitat?” or “Why did the character leave?” after listening. Students often get stuck asking off-topic questions, repeating what was already said, or giving answers based on their own experience instead of the speaker’s words.
Ways to Teach It
- Hands-on activity: Read a short animal fact card aloud, then have students sort question cards into clarify, learn more, and off-topic piles.
- Prompt: After a classmate shares about a book, students write one question that would help them understand the book better.
- Quick assessment: Play a 30-second audio clip, then ask students to write one answer and one new question about what they heard.
- Real-world connection: After a school guest speaks, students ask prepared questions to learn one new detail and clear up one confusing part.
Plan a Lesson for CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.2.3
Generate a complete lesson plan aligned to this standard, with objectives, activities, and materials. Free, no account needed.
Related Standards
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.1.4
Ask and answer questions to help determine or clarify the meaning of words and phrases in a text.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.3.3
Ask and answer questions about information from a speaker, offering appropriate elaboration and detail.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.K.3
Ask and answer questions in order to seek help, get information, or clarify something that is not understood.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.1.3
Ask and answer questions about what a speaker says in order to gather additional information or clarify something that is not understood.