CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.9-10.3a
The Standard
Engage and orient the reader by setting out a problem, situation, or observation, establishing one or multiple point(s) of view, and introducing a narrator and/or characters; create a smooth progression of experiences or events.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts
What This Standard Means
Students need to open a narrative in a way that gives the reader enough to enter the story. They should set up a problem, situation, or observation, make the point of view clear, introduce the narrator or characters, and move events forward in an order that feels natural.
Mastery looks like a beginning that makes readers ask, “What happens next?” without feeling confused. Students often get stuck by starting too slowly, naming characters without showing them, shifting point of view by accident, or listing events with weak transitions.
Ways to Teach It
- Give students three opening paragraphs from short stories and have them label the problem, point of view, characters, and first event.
- Prompt students to rewrite a dull opening sentence so it shows a situation, a character, and a clear point of view.
- Use an exit ticket asking students to identify the point of view and central situation in a peer’s first paragraph.
- Connect to movie openings by having students describe how the first two minutes introduce conflict, viewpoint, and main characters.
Before This Standard
If students are struggling here, check these first.
Plan a Lesson for CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.9-10.3a
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.W.7.3a
Engage and orient the reader by establishing a context and point of view and introducing a narrator and/or characters; organize an event sequence that unfolds n...
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.6.3a
Engage and orient the reader by establishing a context and introducing a narrator and/or characters; organize an event sequence that unfolds naturally and logic...