I know the phrase “Common Core” has many parents seeing some shade of red, but what’s interesting and positive to me regarding the Common Core standards is that there is a clear and easily understandable definition of good communication skills for middle schoolers. Below you can see a set of Language Arts Common Core requirements which call these out, and these are direct from the Common Core published standards.

I especially love “Literacy SL.8.6” (clearly written by a true kindred spirit of mine!). Interesting that using the English language appropriately in speech is called out as something that needs to be formally taught. Maybe Common Core also recognizes the gap that might be forming as our kids focus on texting as their main communication vehicle?  Is it that ”formal English” is not used on a regular basis in the day-to-day conversation of many kids, so we now have to actively teach it!

Below is from the Common Core Standards:

• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.8.4
  Present claims and findings, emphasizing salient points in a focused, coherent manner with relevant evidence, sound valid reasoning, and well-chosen details; use appropriate eye contact, adequate volume, and clear pronunciation.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.8.5
  Integrate multimedia and visual displays into presentations to clarify information, strengthen claims and evidence, and add interest.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.8.6
  Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate. (See grade 8 Language standards 1 and 3 here for specific expectations.)

And if you want to review them in more detail (take a look at Grade 5 and Grade 9 for instance!) check out this link: http://www.corestandards.org/ELA-Literacy/SL/8/