CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.11-12.2d
The Standard
Use precise language, domain-specific vocabulary and techniques such as metaphor, simile, and analogy to manage the complexity of the topic; convey a knowledgeable stance in a style that responds to the discipline and context as well as to the expertise of likely readers.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students choose exact nouns and verbs, use subject terms correctly, and explain difficult ideas with metaphors, similes, or analogies when helpful. They adjust tone, definitions, and detail for the subject, purpose, and readers.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Students write with exact terms, accurate comparisons, and a confident tone suited to the subject. They can adjust definitions and detail for expert and general readers without changing the facts.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may think using more jargon automatically makes writing sound knowledgeable. They may use vague words, inaccurate comparisons, or unexplained terms that confuse readers. They may also use the same tone and detail for experts and beginners.
How to Assess It
- Give students one technical concept and ask them to explain it in 75 words for a new student. Require three accurate field terms and one comparison that clarifies the concept.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Have pairs sort sentence cards into precise, vague, accurate comparison, and misleading comparison groups, then revise the weak examples.
Ask students to explain one difficult course concept twice, once for a classmate and once for a younger student.
Play a revision relay where teams replace vague words, define technical terms, and repair weak analogies in a sample paragraph.
Compare a professional report with a public information page, then list how vocabulary, definitions, tone, and examples change for each audience.
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Printable WHST.11-12.2d Worksheet
A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.11-12.2d, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.
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Where This Standard Sits
Before This Standard
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Related Standards
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.7.2d
Use precise language and domain-specific vocabulary to inform about or explain the topic.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.9-10.2d
Use precise language and domain-specific vocabulary to manage the complexity of the topic.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.11-12.2d
Use precise language, domain-specific vocabulary, and techniques such as metaphor, simile, and analogy to manage the complexity of the topic.
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