Maryland ELA W.5.2.c
The Standard
- W.5.2
- Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly. Introduce a topic clearly and group related information in paragraphs and sections; include formatting (e.g., headings), illustrations, and multimedia when useful to aiding comprehension. Develop the topic with facts, definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples related to the topic. Link ideas within categories of information using words and phrases (e.g., in contrast, especially). Use precise language and domain-specific vocabulary to inform about or explain the topic. Provide a concluding statement or section related to the information or explanation presented.
Link ideas within categories of information using words and phrases (e.g., in contrast, especially).
Maryland College and Career Ready Standards for English Language Arts (2025)
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students group related facts in an informational piece. They use words like “also,” “especially,” and “in contrast” to show how facts in a group connect.
What Mastery Looks Like
- A student uses “in contrast” to connect two different ways desert animals stay cool. They use “also” for similar facts and “especially” to point out a notable detail.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may put “in contrast” between facts that agree, or use “also” when the facts differ. They may add a linking word without checking whether the facts belong in the same category.
How to Assess It
- Exit ticket: Write two sentences about how desert animals stay cool using these facts: fennec foxes release heat through their ears; kangaroo rats stay in burrows during the day. Link the facts with “in contrast.”
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Give pairs six fact cards about frog habitats and diets; have them sort the cards and link two facts within each pile.
Ask, “How do a fox’s ears and a kangaroo rat’s burrow help each animal stay cool?” Write two sentences linked with “in contrast.”
Make a matching game with animal fact cards and cards labeled “also,” “especially,” and “in contrast”; partners explain each match.
Compare two school lunch menus, then write a paragraph linking facts about their vegetable options with “also” or “in contrast.”
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