CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.7.6
The Standard
Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts · Speaking and Listening Standards
What This Standard Means
Students need to adjust how they speak based on the situation, audience, and purpose. They should know when casual language works and when formal English is expected, such as presentations, interviews, debates, and class discussions.
Mastery looks like a student choosing the right tone, word choice, volume, and sentence style without sounding stiff or fake. Students often get stuck switching from peer talk to academic talk, avoiding slang, and keeping grammar correct when speaking under pressure.
Ways to Teach It
- Give pairs three scenario cards, lunch table, principal meeting, class presentation, and have them say the same message three different ways.
- Ask students to write: When is informal speech helpful, and when can it hurt your message?
- Have students give a 30-second explanation of a class topic, then score tone, grammar, and audience fit on a checklist.
- Show a short job interview clip and have students list the speaker choices that sound professional.
Before This Standard
If students are struggling here, check these first.
Plan a Lesson for CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.7.6
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.CCRA.SL.6
Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and communicative tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.9-10.6
Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.