Domain Vocabulary Across Subject Areas
Acquire and use accurately academic and domain-specific vocabulary relevant to grade-level topics, including words that signal precise meaning in informational texts across subject areas
Suggested ages 9–11
Learning journey
Your child is developing sophisticated language skills — understanding figurative language like metaphors and similes, learning word relationships through synonyms and antonyms, and using Greek and Latin word parts to figure out unfamiliar words.
Evidence of understanding
- Identify and define academic vocabulary (e.g., compare, contrast, summarise, evidence, interpret) used across multiple subject areas and use these words accurately in discussion and writing
- Determine the meaning of domain-specific words encountered in science, social studies, or maths texts (e.g., ecosystem, democracy, numerator) using context, glossaries, and prior knowledge
- Use newly acquired academic and domain-specific vocabulary in sentences that demonstrate understanding of precise meaning and appropriate context
Assessment prompt
When Domain Vocabulary Across Subject Areas is studying a topic in science or history, do they pick up and correctly use the specific vocabulary for that subject — like "erosion," "parliament," or "habitat"?
Standards alignment
L.4.6
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 4
L.5.6
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 5
RI.4.4
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 4
RI.5.4
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 5