CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.3.2c
The Standard
Use linking words and phrases (e.g., also, another, and, more, but) to connect ideas within categories of information.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts
What This Standard Means
Students need to connect related facts so their informational writing does not sound like a list. They should choose simple transition words that show addition, contrast, or a new related point inside one category of information.
Mastery looks like a student writing a paragraph about one topic, grouping facts by category, and using words like also, another, more, and but in places that make sense. Students often get stuck by repeating the same linker, placing it at the start of every sentence, or using a contrast word when the ideas do not really contrast.
Ways to Teach It
- Give students four fact strips about frogs and have them sort, order, and glue them into a paragraph using transition word cards.
- Ask students to revise this sentence pair: 'Dogs need exercise. Dogs need food,' then explain which linking word fits best.
- Have students highlight every linking word in their paragraph and mark whether each one adds an idea or shows contrast.
- Show a short animal care brochure and have students circle words that connect facts within the same section.
Plan a Lesson for CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.3.2c
Generate a complete lesson plan aligned to this standard, with objectives, activities, and materials. Free, no account needed.
Related Standards
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.4.2c
Link ideas within categories of information using words and phrases (e.g., another, for example, also, because).
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.4.1c
Link opinion and reasons using words and phrases (e.g., for instance, in order to, in addition).
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.5.2c
Link ideas within and across categories of information using words, phrases, and clauses (e.g., in contrast, especially).
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.3.1c
Use linking words and phrases (e.g., because, therefore, since, for example) to connect opinion and reasons.