Cite textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.

Determine a central idea of a text and how it is conveyed through particular details; provide a summary of the text distinct from personal opinions or judgments.

Analyze in detail how a key individual, event, or idea is introduced, illustrated, and elaborated in a text (e.g., through examples or anecdotes).

Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative, connotative, and technical meanings.

Determine an author's point of view or purpose in a text and explain how it is conveyed in the text.

By the end of the year, read and comprehend literary nonfiction in the grades 6-8 text complexity band proficiently, with scaffolding as needed at the high end of the range.

Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.

Draw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 6 topics, texts, and issues, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.

Pose and respond to specific questions with elaboration and detail by making comments that contribute to the topic, text, or issue under discussion.

Review the key ideas expressed and demonstrate understanding of multiple perspectives through reflection and paraphrasing.

Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.

Understand and explain why caring (and helping others) should never be motivated by the likelihood of being recognized or rewarded for your help or support

Describe a role model who demonstrates a positive attitude, effort, and grit

Identify individuals, fiction and real, past and present, who exemplify the different intellectual character strengths in a concrete and compelling manner

Recognize and understand why the intellectual character strengths are not innate (something you are born with) but can be developed with practice and support

Explain a time when you overcame a negative thought and developed a “growth mindset”

Experience and demonstrate empathy

Demonstrate respect for other people’s opinions and perspectives

Analyze the impact of stereotyping, discrimination, and prejudice (at school, in the community and beyond)

Practice “perspective taking” as a strategy to strengthen your acceptance of others

Demonstrate awareness and understanding that despite differences, all people have similar needs, feelings and wants

Understand and practice positive collaboration and cooperation skills (e.g., teamwork)

Write about and share a principle you want to live by that you learned from a family member, book, movie, or personal experience