Ch 2: Capitalization, Punctuation & Spelling: CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.11-12.2
About This Chapter
Standard: Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.
About This Chapter
By mastering this standard, students are able to write using English-based spelling, capitalization and punctuation. These conventions include proper hyphen, colon, period and semicolon use.
Lessons in this standard cover concepts such as:
- Using semicolons in the proper way
- Spelling words correctly
- How to use and understand hyphens
- Understanding when to use colons
- Comprehending proper period use
Students exhibit mastery of these concepts by writing passages without spelling, punctuation and capitalization errors. After mastering these concepts, they can also edit and critique the writing of others.
How to Use These Lessons in Your Classroom
Examine the information below for tips when guiding students through the CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.11-12.2 standard.
Colon and Semicolon Differentiating Lessons
Provide the students with sentences that require corrections using colons or semicolons. Show students the colon and semicolon video lessons. Explain to the students that they need to make corrections by using a colon or semicolon in the appropriate spot. Reveal answers to the class and discuss why the answers are correct.
Writing Demonstration Lessons
Have the class write a short passage on a topic of their choice. Watch the capitalization, spelling and punctuation video lessons with the class. Ask the students to partner up with one other classmate and have them swap their passages with each other. The students then make adjustments to their partner's passages. Require students to share their edits with their partner while providing critical feedback regarding relevant concepts.
Error Identification Lessons
Write a passage full of punctuation, capitalization and spelling errors. Pass copies of the passage to the students and watch the related video lessons. Have the students correct the errors. Discuss the results and explain the reasoning behind the changes.

1. Punctuation: Using Colons, Semicolons & Periods
Periods, colons, and semicolons all have the ability to stop a sentence in its tracks, but for very different purposes. Learn how and why different punctuation signs are utilized in writing, including periods, colons, and semicolons, and discover how they help people make lists and connect words, phrases, and clauses.

2. Correct Spelling in Written Work: Strategies & Tips
Correct spelling is important and it makes a difference to how you and your written work is viewed. Learn some strategies and helpful tips for ensuring that your written work is always spelled correctly.

3. How to Use and Interpret Hyphenation Conventions
In grammar, the hyphen is a punctuation mark that joins words with a shared meaning or words that are linked in the context where they're used. Learn how to use and interpret hyphenation conventions, explore mechanical errors, understand why hyphens are important, and review the rules for using hyphens.
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Other Chapters
Other chapters within the Common Core ELA - Language Grades 11-12: Standards course