CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.4.1c
The Standard
Pose and respond to specific questions to clarify or follow up on information, and make comments that contribute to the discussion and link to the remarks of others.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts
What This Standard Means
Students need to ask clear questions that help the group understand an idea better or go further with it. They also need to answer classmates with details, not one-word replies, and add comments that connect to what someone just said.
Mastery looks like a student saying, “Can you explain why you think that?” or “I agree with Maya because the text says…” Students often get stuck by changing the subject, repeating an idea without adding more, or asking vague questions like “What?”
Ways to Teach It
- Give pairs discussion cards labeled clarify, follow up, agree, and add on, then have them use one card during a short text talk.
- Ask students to write one sentence starting with, “I want to add to what ___ said because…” after a partner discussion.
- During a group talk, tally each student’s specific question and linked comment on a simple checklist.
- Connect the skill to planning a class party, where students must ask clear questions and build on each other’s ideas before voting.
Before This Standard
If students are struggling here, check these first.
Plan a Lesson for CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.4.1c
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.SL.7.1c
Pose questions that elicit elaboration and respond to others' questions and comments with relevant observations and ideas that bring the discussion back on topi...
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.6.1c
Pose and respond to specific questions with elaboration and detail by making comments that contribute to the topic, text, or issue under discussion.