NY Next Generation ELA 4SL6
The Standard
Distinguish between contexts that call for formal English versus/or informal discourse; use formal English when appropriate to task and situation.
New York State Next Generation English Language Arts Learning Standards
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students distinguish formal English contexts from informal discourse and use formal English when appropriate. They adapt language to task and situation.
What Mastery Looks Like
- The student identifies the expected register and changes vocabulary, sentence form, and tone accordingly. Both versions remain clear and respectful.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may treat informal speech as wrong. They may make formal language stiff, vague, or overloaded with difficult words.
How to Assess It
- Give a peer conversation and formal presentation scenario. Ask students to deliver the same message appropriately in each and explain changes.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Transform an informal message into a formal classroom presentation.
Ask students which context clues signal formal English.
Play Register Match with scenarios and sample statements.
Practice explaining a school project to a friend and an administrator.
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Printable 4SL6 Worksheet
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Related Standards
- 3SL6
Identify contexts that call for academic English or informal discourse.
- 4L3.c
Distinguish between contexts that call for formal English (e.g., presenting ideas) and situations where informal discourse is appropriate (e.g., small-group dis...
- 5SL6
Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, using formal English when appropriate.
- 7SL6
Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.
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