Virginia SOL 8.C.1.A.iii
The Standard
Asking clarifying questions and responding appropriately to others’ questions to encourage discussion, foster understanding, and maintain focus on the topic.
Virginia Standards of Learning for English · Communication, Listening, and Collaboration
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students take part in extended discussions about texts and grade-level topics. They ask focused questions when an idea or evidence is unclear, then answer others directly and stay on topic.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Students listen closely and ask specific questions such as, “What evidence supports that?” or “Can you explain what you mean?” They answer peers clearly, connect responses to earlier comments, and redirect off-topic talk politely.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may confuse clarifying questions with challenges or repeat a point instead of probing it. They may ask vague questions, answer indirectly, change topics, or dominate the discussion.
How to Assess It
- Have groups discuss a claim from a class text for five minutes. Check that each student asks one specific clarifying question and answers a peer directly.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Give groups cards with vague claims, then have students choose a card, ask clarifying questions, and rewrite the claim more precisely.
Ask, “Which idea from our reading needs more explanation?” and require each student to question or respond to a peer.
Run a clarification relay where teams earn points for specific questions, direct answers, and comments that connect to the previous speaker.
Role-play planning a school event, with students clarifying costs, responsibilities, and deadlines before the group makes a final plan.
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Printable 8.C.1.A.iii Worksheet
A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to 8.C.1.A.iii, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.
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Related Standards
- 7.C.1.A.iii
Asking and responding to probing questions and providing appropriate feedback within structured discussions.
- 5.C.1.A.iii
Asking and answering relevant questions to build on others’ ideas, clarify ideas, and acquire or confirm information.
- 2.C.1.A.iv
Demonstrating active engagement when listening to a speaker and asking for clarification to ensure understanding.
- 6.C.1.A.iii
Asking relevant questions to clarify others’ perspectives.
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