Learning Optimism from Literature

Ask and answer questions to demonstrate understanding of a text, referring explicitly to the text as the basis for the answers.

Recount stories, including fables, folktales, and myths from diverse cultures; determine the central message, lesson, or moral and explain how it is conveyed through key details in the text.

Describe characters in a story (e.g., their traits, motivations, or feelings) and explain how their actions contribute to the sequence of events

By the end of the year, read and comprehend literature, including stories, dramas, and poetry, in the grades 4-5 text complexity band proficiently, with scaffolding as needed at the high end of the range.

Know and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills in decoding words.

Decode multisyllable words.

Read with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension.

Read grade-level text with purpose and understanding.

Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 3 topics and texts, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.

Follow agreed-upon rules for discussions (e.g., gaining the floor in respectful ways, listening to others with care, speaking one at a time about the topics and texts under discussion).

Ask questions to check understanding of information presented, stay on topic, and link their comments to the remarks of others.

Explain their own ideas and understanding in light of the discussion.

Ask and answer questions about information from a speaker, offering appropriate elaboration and detail.

Speak in complete sentences when appropriate to task and situation in order to provide requested detail or clarification.

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

Use abstract nouns (e.g., childhood).

Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.

Use knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening.

Provide an example of a friend or role model who demonstrates caring and compassion

Provide an example of a friend or role model who demonstrates gratitude

Understand and explain why different situations may set in motion or give rise to different emotions (e.g., learning something new or difficult, meeting someone new)

Recognize how your negative thoughts (e.g., “no one likes me”) may distort or minimize the positive things about you (or around you)

Explain the ways in which you use and practice your personal strengths (e.g., your willingness to help others, your positivity)

Use “I-statements” to let others know that you have heard them

Write and share with your classmates an ethical principle you wish everyone in the world would follow all the time (e.g., all people are created equal, be honest, be kind)