Massachusetts Curriculum Framework for English Language Arts and Literacy, March 2011
Grade 6 students:
Conventions of Standard English Knowledge of Language
1. Demonstrate command of the conventions of 3. Use knowledge of language and its conventions when writing,
standard English grammar and usage when writing speaking, reading, or listening.
or speaking. a. Vary sentence patterns for meaning, reader/listener interest,
a. Ensure that pronouns are in the proper case and style. *
(subjective, objective, possessive). b. Maintain consistency in style and tone.*
b. Use intensive pronouns (e.g., myself, ourselves).
c. Recognize and correct inappropriate shifts in
pronoun number and person.*
d. Recognize and correct vague pronouns (i.e.,
ones with unclear or ambiguous antecedents).*
e. Recognize variations from standard English in
their own and others' writing and speaking, and
identify and use strategies to improve
expression in conventional language.*
2. Demonstrate command of the conventions of
standard English capitalization, punctuation, and
spelling when writing.
a. Use punctuation (commas, parentheses,
dashes) to set off nonrestrictive/parenthetical
elements.*
b. Spell correctly.