English Language Arts · 2026

Grade 7

25
standards
98
lettered parts
11
priority
4
new

Use these in PRISM

A PRISM PLC team can start from OSPI's 11 Priority standards for Grade 7: one step adds them as its Priority standards, ready for scales, assessments and plans.

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What changed

76 Common Core standards map onto this grade's 2026 standards.

New in 2026, with no Common Core match

Common Core to 2026, standard by standard76
Common Core2026
RL.7.1Cite several pieces of textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.ELA.7.R.4ELA.7.R.5
RL.7.2Determine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze its development over the course of the text; provide an objective summary of the text.ELA.7.R.5
RL.7.3Analyze how particular elements of a story or drama interact (e.g., how setting shapes the characters or plot).ELA.7.R.4
RL.7.4Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the impact of rhymes and other repetitions of sounds (e.g., alliteration) on a specific verse or stanza of a poem or section of a story or drama.ELA.7.R.5ELA.7.L.4
RL.7.5Analyze how a drama's or poem's form or structure (e.g., soliloquy, sonnet) contributes to its meaning.ELA.7.R.4
RL.7.6Analyze how an author develops and contrasts the points of view of different characters or narrators in a text.ELA.7.R.4ELA.7.R.5
RL.7.7Compare and contrast a written story, drama, or poem to its audio, filmed, staged, or multimedia version, analyzing the effects of techniques unique to each medium (e.g., lighting, sound, color, or camera focus and angles in a film).ELA.7.R.5
RL.7.9Compare and contrast a fictional portrayal of a time, place, or character and a historical account of the same period as a means of understanding how authors of fiction use or alter history.ELA.7.R.5
RL.7.10By 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.ELA.7.R.4
RI.7.1Cite several pieces of textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.ELA.7.R.4ELA.7.R.5
RI.7.2Determine two or more central ideas in a text and analyze their development over the course of the text; provide an objective summary of the text.ELA.7.R.5ELA.7.W.3
RI.7.3Analyze the interactions between individuals, events, and ideas in a text (e.g., how ideas influence individuals or events, or how individuals influence ideas or events).ELA.7.R.5
RI.7.4Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative, connotative, and technical meanings; analyze the impact of a specific word choice on meaning and tone.ELA.7.L.3ELA.7.L.4ELA.7.R.4
RI.7.5Analyze the structure an author uses to organize a text, including how the major sections contribute to the whole and to the development of the ideas.ELA.7.R.1ELA.7.R.5
RI.7.6Determine an author's point of view or purpose in a text and analyze how the author distinguishes his or her position from that of others.ELA.7.R.5ELA.7.RML.3ELA.7.RML.5
RI.7.7Compare and contrast a text to an audio, video, or multimedia version of the text, analyzing each medium's portrayal of the subject (e.g., how the delivery of a speech affects the impact of the words).ELA.7.R.5
RI.7.8Trace and evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text, assessing whether the reasoning is sound and the evidence is relevant and sufficient to support the claims.ELA.7.RML.4
RI.7.9Analyze how two or more authors writing about the same topic shape their presentations of key information by emphasizing different evidence or advancing different interpretations of facts.ELA.7.R.5ELA.7.RML.5
RI.7.10By 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.ELA.7.R.4
W.7.1Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.ELA.7.W.1ELA.7.W.3ELA.7.W.4
W.7.1aIntroduce claim(s), acknowledge alternate or opposing claims, and organize the reasons and evidence logically.ELA.7.W.3ELA.7.W.4
W.7.1bSupport claim(s) with logical reasoning and relevant evidence, using accurate, credible sources and demonstrating an understanding of the topic or text.ELA.7.W.3
W.7.1cUse words, phrases, and clauses to create cohesion and clarify the relationships among claim(s), reasons, and evidence.ELA.7.W.3
W.7.1dEstablish and maintain a formal style.ELA.7.L.2
W.7.1eProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented.ELA.7.W.4
W.7.2Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant contentELA.7.W.1ELA.7.W.3ELA.7.W.4
W.7.2aIntroduce a topic clearly, previewing what is to follow; organize ideas, concepts, and information, using strategies such as definition, classification, comparison/contrast, and cause/effect; include formatting (e.g., headings), graphics (e.g., charts, tables), and multimedia when useful to aiding comprehension.ELA.7.W.3ELA.7.W.4
W.7.2bDevelop the topic with relevant facts, definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples.ELA.7.W.3
W.7.2cUse appropriate transitions to create cohesion and clarify the relationships among ideas and concepts.ELA.7.W.4
W.7.2dUse precise language and domain-specific vocabulary to inform about or explain the topic.ELA.7.W.3
W.7.2eEstablish and maintain a formal style.ELA.7.L.2
W.7.2fProvide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the information or explanation presentedELA.7.W.4
W.7.3Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, relevant descriptive details, and well-structured event sequences.ELA.7.W.1ELA.7.W.3ELA.7.W.4
W.7.3aEngage and orient the reader by establishing a context and point of view and introducing a narrator and/or characters; organize an event sequence that unfolds naturally and logically.ELA.7.W.2ELA.7.W.3ELA.7.W.4
W.7.3bUse narrative techniques, such as dialogue, pacing, and description, to develop experiences, events, and/or characters.ELA.7.W.3
W.7.3cUse a variety of transition words, phrases, and clauses to convey sequence and signal shifts from one time frame or setting to another.ELA.7.W.3
W.7.3dUse precise words and phrases, relevant descriptive details, and sensory language to capture the action and convey experiences and events.ELA.7.W.3
W.7.3eProvide a conclusion that follows from and reflects on the narrated experiences or events.ELA.7.W.4
W.7.4Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.ELA.7.W.4ELA.7.W.5
W.7.5With some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach, focusing on how well purpose and audience have been addressed.ELA.7.W.2ELA.7.W.5
W.7.6Use technology, including the Internet, to produce and publish writing and link to and cite sources as well as to interact and collaborate with others, including linking to and citing sources.ELA.7.W.6ELA.7.SLDF.1ELA.7.SLDF.3
W.7.7Conduct short research projects to answer a question, drawing on several sources and generating additional related, focused questions for further research and investigation.ELA.7.RML.1
W.7.8Gather relevant information from multiple print and digital sources, using search terms effectively; assess the credibility and accuracy of each source; and quote or paraphrase the data and conclusions of others while avoiding plagiarism and following a standard format for citation.ELA.7.RML.1ELA.7.RML.4ELA.7.RML.5ELA.7.W.3
W.7.9Draw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.ELA.7.RML.1ELA.7.R.5
W.7.9aApply grade 7 Reading standards to literature (e.g., "Compare and contrast a fictional portrayal of a time, place, or character and a historical account of the same period as a means of understanding how authors of fiction use or alter history").No 2026 standard listed
W.7.9bApply grade 7 Reading standards to literary nonfiction (e.g. "Trace and evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text, assessing whether the reasoning is sound and the evidence is relevant and sufficient to support the claims").No 2026 standard listed
W.7.10Write routinely over extended time frames (time for research, reflection, and revision) and shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or two) for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.No 2026 standard listed
SL.7.1Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 7 topics, texts, and issues, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.ELA.7.SLDF.1
SL.7.1aCome to discussions prepared, having read or researched material under study; explicitly draw on that preparation by referring to evidence on the topic, text, or issue to probe and reflect on ideas under discussion.ELA.7.SLDF.1
SL.7.1bFollow rules for collegial discussions, track progress toward specific goals and deadlines, and define individual roles as needed.ELA.7.SLDF.1
SL.7.1cPose questions that elicit elaboration and respond to others' questions and comments with relevant observations and ideas that bring the discussion back on topic as needed.ELA.7.SLDF.1
SL.7.1dAcknowledge new information expressed by others and, when warranted, modify their own views.ELA.7.SLDF.1
SL.7.2Analyze the main ideas and supporting details presented in diverse media and formats (e.g., visually, quantitatively, orally) and explain how the ideas clarify a topic, text, or issue under study.ELA.7.R.4ELA.7.R.5
SL.7.3Delineate a speaker's argument and specific claims, evaluating the soundness of the reasoning and the relevance and sufficiency of the evidence.ELA.7.RML.4
SL.7.4Present claims and findings, emphasizing salient points in a focused, coherent manner with pertinent descriptions, facts, details, and examples; use appropriate eye contact, adequate volume, and clear pronunciation.ELA.7.SLDF.3ELA.7.SLDF.5
SL.7.5Include multimedia components and visual displays in presentations to clarify claims and findings and emphasize salient points.ELA.7.SLDF.3
SL.7.6Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.ELA.7.SLDF.4
L.7.1Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.ELA.7.L.2ELA.7.L.3
L.7.1aExplain the function of phrases and clauses in general and their function in specific sentences.ELA.7.L.2
L.7.1bChoose among simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex sentences to signal differing relationships among ideas.ELA.7.L.2
L.7.1cPlace phrases and clauses within a sentence, recognizing and correcting misplaced and dangling modifiers.ELA.7.L.2
L.7.2Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.ELA.7.L.5
L.7.2aUse a comma to separate coordinate adjectives (e.g., It was a fascinating, enjoyable movie but not He wore an old[,] green shirt).ELA.7.L.5
L.7.2bSpell correctly.ELA.7.L.5
L.7.3Use knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening.ELA.7.L.2ELA.7.L.3
L.7.3aChoose language that expresses ideas precisely and concisely, recognizing and eliminating wordiness and redundancy.ELA.7.L.4
L.7.4Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grade 7 reading and content, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies.ELA.7.L.3
L.7.4aUse context (e.g., the overall meaning of a sentence or paragraph; a word's position or function in a sentence) as a clue to the meaning of a word or phrase.ELA.7.L.3
L.7.4bUse common, grade-appropriate Greek or Latin affixes and roots as clues to the meaning of a word (e.g., belligerent, bellicose, rebel).ELA.7.L.3
L.7.4cConsult general and specialized reference materials (e.g., dictionaries, glossaries, thesauruses), both print and digital, to find the pronunciation of a word or determine or clarify its precise meaning or its part of speech.ELA.7.L.3
L.7.4dVerify the preliminary determination of the meaning of a word or phrase (e.g., by checking the inferred meaning in context or in a dictionary).ELA.7.L.3
L.7.5Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.ELA.7.L.4
L.7.5aInterpret figures of speech (e.g., literary, biblical, and mythological allusions) in context.ELA.7.L.4
L.7.5bUse the relationship between particular words (e.g., synonym/antonym, analogy) to better understand each of the words.ELA.7.L.4
L.7.5cDistinguish among the connotations (associations) of words with similar denotations (definitions) (e.g., refined, respectful, polite, diplomatic, condescending).ELA.7.L.4
L.7.6Acquire and use accurately grade-appropriate general academic and domain-specific words and phrases; gather vocabulary knowledge when considering a word or phrase important to comprehension or expression.ELA.7.L.3

ELA combines several Common Core standards into one, so one row often points to two or three 2026 standards, and one 2026 standard gathers many rows.

The standards

Reading R

ELA.7.R.1

Students know and use text/visual features.

  1. a.Use text/visual features to identify sections of a longer text that are likely to contain needed information.
  2. b.Describe how text/visual features represent and/or add meaning to the written text.
  3. c.Recognize and use the text/visual features of a range of genres.

Common Core: RI.7.5

ResourcesWIDA

WIDA language connections2

Narrate

ELD-SI.4-12.Narrate · Language for Social and Instructional Purposes, Grades 4-12

  • Connect stories with images and representations to add meaning
Argue · Expressivespeaking, writing and representing

ELD-LA.6-8.Argue.Expressive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Construct language arts arguments that…

  • Support claims with reasons and evidence that are clear, relevant, and credible

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

ELA.7.R.4

Priority

Students comprehend and interpret texts using a variety of strategies.

  1. a.Preview the text while reflecting on their purposes for reading.
  2. b.Visualize, imagine, and/or otherwise engage the senses to make meaning of the text.
  3. c.Make inferences and predictions, checking them against textual evidence.
  4. d.Maintain motivation and reconnect to the flow of reading using a variety of strategies.
  5. e.Explain how choices about text/visual features advance the author's purpose and fit within the genre, medium, or platform.
  6. f.Describe literary techniques and their effects.
  7. g.Describe what they understand from the topic or story, including how information, ideas, or elements of a story interact and/or change.
  8. h.Explain how the author's use of language shapes meaning and affects reader understanding.
  9. i.Analyze how authors use text structure to guide readers' understanding and shape meaning.

Common Core: RL.7.1 RL.7.3 RL.7.5 RL.7.6 RL.7.10 RI.7.1 RI.7.4 RI.7.10 SL.7.2

ResourcesWIDAOSPI

WIDA language connections1

Narrate · Interpretivelistening, reading and viewing

ELD-LA.6-8.Narrate.Interpretive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Interpret language arts narratives by…

  • Identifying a theme or central idea that develops over the course of a text
  • Analyzing how character attributes and actions develop in relation to events or dialogue
  • Evaluating impact of specific word choices about meaning and tone

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

From OSPI

Smarter Balanced interim assessment

  • Make and Support Inferences (Literary)
  • Reading (Literary) Target 1, Item Position: 2, 5, 7, 10
  • Reading (Literary) Target 4, Item Position: 4, 6, 9
  • Text Analysis (Literary)
  • Reading (Literary) Target 5, Item Position: 1, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10
  • Reading (Literary) Target 6, Item Position: 2, 3, 7, 9, 11
  • Make and Support Inferences (Informational)
  • Reading (Informational) Target 8, Item Position: 1, 3, 10
  • Reading (Informational) Target 11, Item Position: 6, 7
  • Text Analysis (Informational)
  • Reading (Informational) Target 12, Item Position: 2, 4, 5, 7, 10
  • Reading (Informational) Target 13, Item Position: 1, 3, 6, 8, 9, 11

ELA.7.R.5

Priority

Students analyze texts, introducing and attributing textual evidence when relevant.

  1. a.Explain how authors' choices influence readers' choices and/or actions.
  2. b.Explain the communicative situation in which an author writes a text, including their purposes, their perspectives, and the genre and platform they choose.
  3. c.Explain the main idea, theme, or key information in a text, how it deepens, expands, or changes their previous understanding, and how it connects to their own experiences.
  4. d.Compare and contrast similar content presented in different genres, mediums, and platforms.

Common Core: RL.7.1 RL.7.2 RL.7.4 RL.7.6 RL.7.7 RL.7.9 RI.7.1 RI.7.2 RI.7.3 RI.7.5 RI.7.6 RI.7.7 RI.7.9 W.7.9 SL.7.2

ResourcesWIDAOSPI

WIDA language connections1

Narrate · Interpretivelistening, reading and viewing

ELD-LA.6-8.Narrate.Interpretive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Interpret language arts narratives by…

  • Identifying a theme or central idea that develops over the course of a text
  • Analyzing how character attributes and actions develop in relation to events or dialogue
  • Evaluating impact of specific word choices about meaning and tone

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

From OSPI

Smarter Balanced interim assessment

  • Make and Support Inferences (Literary)
  • Reading (Literary) Target 2, Item Position: 1, 3, 8, 11
  • Make and Support Inferences (Informational)
  • Reading (Informational) Target 9, Item Position: 2, 4, 5, 8, 9

ELA.7.R.6

New in 2026

Students evaluate texts.

  1. a.Describe how effectively an element of a text invites the reader to visualize and/or empathize, using relevant criteria.
  2. b.Describe how effectively an element of a text engages the reader or inspires ideas or actions using relevant criteria.

No Common Core standard maps here

ResourcesWIDA

WIDA language connections1

Narrate · Interpretivelistening, reading and viewing

ELD-LA.6-8.Narrate.Interpretive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Interpret language arts narratives by…

  • Identifying a theme or central idea that develops over the course of a text
  • Evaluating impact of specific word choices about meaning and tone

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

Writing W

ELA.7.W.1

Priority

Students compose multimodal texts within a variety of genres across content areas for a variety of purposes.

  1. a.Compose in order to describe situations, experience, ideas, and imaginings.
  2. b.Compose in order to record observations and/or explain their observations and analysis of texts, ideas, and the world.
  3. c.Compose in order to make a claim about an issue.
  4. d.Compose in order to persuade others.
  5. e.Compose in order to tell narratives of stories and events.

Common Core: W.7.1 W.7.2 W.7.3

ResourcesWIDAOSPI

WIDA language connections1

Inform · Expressivespeaking, writing and representing

ELD-LA.6-8.Inform.Expressive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Construct informational texts in language arts that…

  • Establish objective or neutral stance
  • Add precision, details, and clarity about relevant attributes, qualities, characteristics, activities, and behaviors
  • Develop coherence and cohesion throughout text

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

From OSPI

Smarter Balanced interim assessment

  • Performance Task (Explanatory): Mobile Ed Technology
  • Writing Target 4, Item Position: 4

ELA.7.W.2

Students manage and complete writing projects, connecting to interests, experiences, needs, or perspectives.

  1. a.Analyze the prompt to determine the purpose of the project and how to meet it.
  2. b.Determine who the audience is and make writing choices that consider what they may already know, think, and/or feel about the topic.
  3. c.Create a plan and manage a timeline for sustained writing projects.
  4. d.Adjust to feedback and shifts in focus and timeline when needed.

Common Core: W.7.3a W.7.5

ResourcesWIDA

WIDA language connections1

Explain

ELD-SI.4-12.Explain · Language for Social and Instructional Purposes, Grades 4-12

  • Follow and describe cycles and sequences of steps or procedures and their causes and effects
  • Compare changing variables, factors, and circumstances
  • Offer alternatives to extend or deepen awareness of factors that contribute to particular outcomes
  • Act on feedback to revise understandings of how or why something is or works in particular ways

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

ELA.7.W.3

Priority

Students draft content within the genre and purpose, using technology appropriately.

  1. a.Generate ideas for topics, genres, and material.
  2. b.Select and organize ideas and material, including findings from research and/or multimedia artifacts, identifying when and how it's fair to use the creative work of others.
  3. c.Follow, adapt, or combine genre-specific text elements to achieve specific purposes and effects.
  4. d.Develop descriptions with concrete and/or abstract details to help the audience imagine and empathize with the content and to activate the senses.
  5. e.Develop analysis of experience, events, information, ideas, and/or texts.
  6. f.Support analysis by selecting relevant evidence from texts, paraphrasing, summarizing, and/or selecting quotations.
  7. g.Support claims with relevant and credible evidence connected by sound and valid reasoning.
  8. h.Use persuasive techniques, including arguments, evaluations, and appeals to emotion and reason.
  9. i.Use a variety of narrative techniques and devices consistent with the genre.
  10. j.Attribute sources in ways consistent with the genre, using technology appropriately.

Common Core: RI.7.2 W.7.1 W.7.1a W.7.1b W.7.1c W.7.2 W.7.2a W.7.2b W.7.2d W.7.3 W.7.3a W.7.3b W.7.3c W.7.3d W.7.8

ResourcesWIDAOSPI

WIDA language connections1

Argue · Expressivespeaking, writing and representing

ELD-LA.6-8.Argue.Expressive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Construct language arts arguments that…

  • Introduce and develop claim(s) and acknowledge counterclaim(s)
  • Support claims with reasons and evidence that are clear, relevant, and credible
  • Establish and maintain formal style
  • Logically organize claim(s) with clear reasons and relevant evidence; offer a conclusion

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

From OSPI

Smarter Balanced interim assessment

  • Write and Revise Narratives
  • Writing Target 1a, Item Position: 8
  • Research: Analyze and Integrate Information
  • Research Target 2, Item Position: 1, 4, 8, 11
  • Performance Task (Explanatory) -- Mobile Ed Technology
  • Writing Target 4, Item Position: 4
  • Research: Use Evidence
  • Research Target 4, Item Position: 3, 5, 6, 7, 9
  • Write and Revise Argumentative Texts
  • Writing Target 6a, Item Position: 2, 5

ELA.7.W.4

Students organize content by using and/or adapting the genre's structure based on purpose.

  1. a.Craft engaging introductions by using strategies that orient the reader to the topic, purpose, or situation.
  2. b.Organize content using genre-specific strategies.
  3. c.Compose conclusions that provide a sense of closure by reflecting the purpose and structure of the genre.

Common Core: W.7.1 W.7.1a W.7.1e W.7.2 W.7.2a W.7.2c W.7.2f W.7.3 W.7.3a W.7.3e W.7.4

ResourcesWIDAOSPI

WIDA language connections1

Narrate · Expressivespeaking, writing and representing

ELD-LA.6-8.Narrate.Expressive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Construct language arts narratives that…

  • Orient audience to context and point of view
  • Develop and describe characters and their relationships
  • Develop story, including themes with complication and resolution, time, and event sequences
  • Engage and adjust for audience

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

From OSPI

Smarter Balanced interim assessment

  • Write and Revise Narratives
  • Writing Target 1a, Item Position: 5
  • Write and Revise Explanatory Texts
  • Writing Target 3a, Item Position: 2, 5
  • Performance Task (Explanatory) -- Mobile Ed Technology
  • Writing Target 4, Item Position: 4
  • Write and Revise Argumentative Texts
  • Writing Target 6a, Item Position: 8

ELA.7.W.5

Priority

Students evaluate, revise, and edit their compositions using a variety of strategies, including appropriate use of technology.

  1. a.Re-read draft to evaluate clarity, and effectiveness in achieving intended purpose and to determine next steps.
  2. b.Gather, evaluate and consider using feedback about their compositions.
  3. c.Use what they learned from re-reading and feedback to strengthen their compositions.
  4. d.Edit for conventions and consistency of text/visual features, including attributions. [Demonstrate command of Language standards in grades 1–7.]

Common Core: W.7.4 W.7.5

ResourcesWIDAOSPI

WIDA language connections2

Narrate · Expressivespeaking, writing and representing

ELD-LA.6-8.Narrate.Expressive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Construct language arts narratives that…

  • Orient audience to context and point of view
  • Develop and describe characters and their relationships
  • Develop story, including themes with complication and resolution, time, and event sequences
  • Engage and adjust for audience
Explain

ELD-SI.4-12.Explain · Language for Social and Instructional Purposes, Grades 4-12

  • Act on feedback to revise understandings of how or why something is or works in particular ways

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

From OSPI

Smarter Balanced interim assessment

  • Write and Revise Narratives
  • Writing Target 1b, Item Position: 2, 7, 10
  • Write and Revise Explanatory Texts
  • Writing Target 3b, Item Position: 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11
  • Write and Revise Argumentative Texts
  • Writing Target 6b, Item Position: 1, 7, 10
  • Language and Vocabulary Use
  • Writing Target 9, Item Position: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15

ELA.7.W.6

Students share and publish compositions in person and/or on digital or non-digital platforms.

  1. a.Determine where to publish after considering potential impacts on intended and unintended audiences and the permanence of digital platforms.

Common Core: W.7.6

ResourcesWIDA

WIDA language connections1

Explain

ELD-SI.4-12.Explain · Language for Social and Instructional Purposes, Grades 4-12

  • Offer alternatives to extend or deepen awareness of factors that contribute to particular outcomes
  • Act on feedback to revise understandings of how or why something is or works in particular ways

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

Speaking, Listening, and Digital Forums SLDF

ELA.7.SLDF.1

Priority

Students listen thoughtfully, respond respectfully, and contribute to well-reasoned exchanges during face-to-face discussions and/or in digital forums.

  1. a.Maintain expectations for engaging in civil discourse, including other participants, and considering diverse perspectives, especially in digital forums.
  2. b.Express ideas clearly by presenting and interpreting textual evidence, research, experience, and/or prior knowledge, attributing evidence and ideas.
  3. c.Develop common understanding by connecting to others' contributions.
  4. d.Ask questions that clarify or verify a speaker’s point or perspective and/or share their interpretation of others' contributions.
  5. e.Clarify or expand on their points or perspectives and/or respond to feedback about how others are interpreting them, especially in digital forums.
  6. f.Identify evidence or experience that contradicts conclusions.
  7. g.Respond to questions that challenge their evidence and reasoning.
  8. h.Explain changes in their opinion and understanding.
  9. i.Summarize conclusions, questions, and points of agreement or disagreement from the discussion.

Common Core: W.7.6 SL.7.1 SL.7.1a SL.7.1b SL.7.1c SL.7.1d

ResourcesWIDA

WIDA language connections1

Narrate

ELD-SI.4-12.Narrate · Language for Social and Instructional Purposes, Grades 4-12

  • Share ideas about one’s own and others’ lived experiences and previous learning
  • Connect stories with images and representations to add meaning
  • Identify and raise questions about what might be unexplained, missing, or left unsaid
  • Recount and restate ideas to sustain and move dialogue forward
  • Create closure, recap, and offer next steps

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

ELA.7.SLDF.2

New in 2026

Students collaborate effectively on projects and tasks.

  1. a.Determine expectations, reviewing and adapting them when needed.
  2. b.Contribute productively by leveraging strengths and taking on challenges.
  3. c.Communicate to build community by addressing concerns, considering others' strengths and perspectives, and/or navigating conflict.

No Common Core standard maps here

ResourcesWIDA

WIDA language connections1

Explain

ELD-SI.4-12.Explain · Language for Social and Instructional Purposes, Grades 4-12

  • Generate and convey initial thinking
  • Act on feedback to revise understandings of how or why something is or works in particular ways

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

ELA.7.SLDF.3

Priority

Students present reports, speeches, and creative work in a variety of genres such that listeners can empathize and/or follow the line of reasoning.

  1. a.Identify focused topics from the situation, experience, imagination, reading, research, media, conversations, and/or products from ELA.7.W.1.
  2. b.Develop content by considering what they want to communicate within the situation and the audience’s background knowledge and/or position.
  3. c.Make strategic use of supporting images and/or multimedia artifacts in presentations to clarify content and support the audience’s engagement.
  4. d.Attribute sources used.

Common Core: W.7.6 SL.7.4 SL.7.5

ResourcesWIDA

WIDA language connections1

Inform · Expressivespeaking, writing and representing

ELD-LA.6-8.Inform.Expressive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Construct informational texts in language arts that…

  • Introduce and define topic and/or entity for audience
  • Establish objective or neutral stance
  • Add precision, details, and clarity about relevant attributes, qualities, characteristics, activities, and behaviors
  • Develop coherence and cohesion throughout text

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

ELA.7.SLDF.4

Students determine how to present themselves and their ideas in different contexts.

  1. a.Express a distinct voice through intentional word choice by drawing on their assets, experience, attitudes, and perspectives.
  2. b.Describe how presentations of selves and ideas in digital forums can impact future goals and opportunities.
  3. c.Identify the benefits, drawbacks, and effects of anonymity and of different degrees of authenticity in digital forums.

Common Core: SL.7.6

ResourcesWIDA

WIDA language connections1

Narrate

ELD-SI.4-12.Narrate · Language for Social and Instructional Purposes, Grades 4-12

  • Share ideas about one’s own and others’ lived experiences and previous learning
  • Connect stories with images and representations to add meaning
  • Identify and raise questions about what might be unexplained, missing, or left unsaid
  • Recount and restate ideas to sustain and move dialogue forward
  • Create closure, recap, and offer next steps

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

ELA.7.SLDF.5

Students use voice, intonation, gesture, and pacing to illuminate the content and engage the audience and lead them through the speaker’s thinking.

Common Core: SL.7.4

ResourcesWIDA

WIDA language connections1

Narrate · Expressivespeaking, writing and representing

ELD-LA.6-8.Narrate.Expressive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Construct language arts narratives that…

  • Orient audience to context and point of view
  • Engage and adjust for audience

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

Language L

ELA.7.L.1

PriorityNew in 2026

Students identify and discuss when and why language is used differently according to the context.

  1. a.Compare and contrast the uses of English across communities and context.
  2. b.Compare and contrast the uses of English in various genres.

No Common Core standard maps here

ResourcesWIDA

WIDA language connections1

Explain

ELD-SI.4-12.Explain · Language for Social and Instructional Purposes, Grades 4-12

  • Compare changing variables, factors, and circumstances
  • Act on feedback to revise understandings of how or why something is or works in particular ways

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

ELA.7.L.2

Students vary sentence patterns for meaning, clarity, and style in conversations and writing about experiences, events, and ideas.

  1. a.Develop well-formed sentences (syntax) to communicate relationships among ideas, including use of parallel structure.
  2. b.Use phrases, clauses, and transitions with punctuation to add precision, variety, and complexity to sentence structures.
  3. c.Use verb tenses and modal auxiliaries to communicate time, sequence, states, and conditions.

Common Core: W.7.1d W.7.2e L.7.1 L.7.1a L.7.1b L.7.1c L.7.3

ResourcesWIDAOSPI

WIDA language connections1

Narrate

ELD-SI.4-12.Narrate · Language for Social and Instructional Purposes, Grades 4-12

  • Share ideas about one’s own and others’ lived experiences and previous learning
  • Identify and raise questions about what might be unexplained, missing, or left unsaid
  • Recount and restate ideas to sustain and move dialogue forward
  • Create closure, recap, and offer next steps

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

From OSPI

Smarter Balanced interim assessment

  • Editing
  • Writing Target 9, Item Position: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

ELA.7.L.3

Priority

Students determine the meaning of and use new and multiple-meaning words and phrases acquired through conversations, reading, and viewing.

  1. a.Determine the meaning of words and phrases by using context, roots, affixes, and reference materials strategically.
  2. b.Use discipline-specific and academic vocabulary accurately across contexts.
  3. c.Distinguish among related words and phrases to communicate precise and nuanced meaning.

Common Core: RI.7.4 L.7.1 L.7.3 L.7.4 L.7.4a L.7.4b L.7.4c L.7.4d L.7.6

ResourcesWIDAOSPI

WIDA language connections2

Inform · Interpretivelistening, reading and viewing

ELD-LA.6-8.Inform.Interpretive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Interpret informational texts in language arts by…

  • Analyzing observations and descriptions in textual evidence for key attributes, qualities, characteristics, activities, and behaviors
  • Evaluating the impact of author’s key word choices over the course of a text
Explain · Expressivespeaking, writing and representing

ELD-SC.6-8.Explain.Expressive · Language for Science, Grades 6-8

Construct scientific explanations that…

  • Describe valid and reliable evidence from sources about a phenomenon
  • Establish neutral or objective stance in how results are communicated

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

From OSPI

Smarter Balanced interim assessment

  • Word Meanings and Language Use (Literary)
  • Target 3, Item Position: 1, 3, 7
  • Language and Vocabulary Use
  • Writing Target 8, Item Position: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15
  • Word Meanings and Language Use (Informational)
  • Target 10, Item Position: 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9

ELA.7.L.4

Students demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meaning in the context of conversations, reading, and writing about experiences, events, and ideas.

  1. a.Recognize, interpret, and use figures of speech, including allusions.
  2. b.Use the relationships among words, including synonyms, antonyms, and analogies, to understand and express nuances in meaning.
  3. c.Distinguish among words with similar denotations but different connotations.

Common Core: RL.7.4 RI.7.4 L.7.3a L.7.5 L.7.5a L.7.5b L.7.5c

ResourcesWIDAOSPI

WIDA language connections1

Narrate · Interpretivelistening, reading and viewing

ELD-LA.6-8.Narrate.Interpretive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Interpret language arts narratives by…

  • Identifying a theme or central idea that develops over the course of a text
  • Analyzing how character attributes and actions develop in relation to events or dialogue
  • Evaluating impact of specific word choices about meaning and tone

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

From OSPI

Smarter Balanced interim assessment

  • Word Meanings and Language Use (Literary)
  • Target 3, Item Position: 6
  • Target 7, Item Position: 2, 4, 5, 8
  • Word Meanings and Language Use (Informational)
  • Target 10, Item Position: 1, 4
  • Target 14, Item Position: 8, 10

ELA.7.L.5

Students develop fluent and accurate writing skills.

  1. a.Write complete sentences that use sentence structure intentionally to clarify relationships among ideas.
  2. b.Use conventional spelling patterns and generalizations, consulting reference materials and/or tools as needed to check and correct spelling.
  3. c.Use semicolons to link closely related independent clauses.
  4. d.Use colons to introduce a list or explanation.

Common Core: L.7.2 L.7.2a L.7.2b

ResourcesWIDAOSPI

WIDA language connections2

Narrate · Expressivespeaking, writing and representing

ELD-LA.6-8.Narrate.Expressive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Construct language arts narratives that…

  • Develop story, including themes with complication and resolution, time, and event sequences
Inform · Expressivespeaking, writing and representing

ELD-LA.6-8.Inform.Expressive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Construct informational texts in language arts that…

  • Add precision, details, and clarity about relevant attributes, qualities, characteristics, activities, and behaviors
  • Develop coherence and cohesion throughout text

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

From OSPI

Smarter Balanced interim assessment

  • Editing
  • Writing Target 9, Item Position: 1, 2, 3, 10, 11, 12, 13

Research and Media Literacy RML

ELA.7.RML.1

Priority

Students engage in research and inquiry by asking questions and seeking answers from information sources.

  1. a.Ask different types of questions, refining and asking new questions as understanding of the topic evolves.
  2. b.Generate ideas for how to initiate their search based on prior knowledge.
  3. c.Select and access a variety of relevant information sources, considering library collections and knowledgeable people, among other options.
  4. d.Select and use digital search tools effectively based on an understanding of the technologies that deliver results.
  5. e.Gather and organize relevant information using a variety of strategies.
  6. f.Synthesize new learning to use and/or share.

Common Core: W.7.7 W.7.8 W.7.9

ResourcesWIDAOSPI

WIDA language connections2

Argue · Interpretivelistening, reading and viewing

ELD-LA.6-8.Argue.Interpretive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Interpret language arts arguments by…

  • Evaluating relevance, sufficiency of evidence, and validity of reasoning that support claim(s)
Inform · Interpretivelistening, reading and viewing

ELD-LA.6-8.Inform.Interpretive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Interpret informational texts in language arts by…

  • Identifying and/or summarizing main ideas and their relationship to supporting ideas
  • Evaluating the impact of author’s key word choices over the course of a text

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

From OSPI

Smarter Balanced interim assessment

  • Research: Evaluate Information and Sources
  • Research Target 3, Item Position: 8, 9
  • Research: Use Evidence
  • Research Target 4, Item Position: 3, 5, 6, 7, 9

ELA.7.RML.2

New in 2026

Students describe how people’s reactions to media messages are affected.

  1. a.Describe how perspectives affect reactions to media messages.
  2. b.Describe how emotional responses to media messages affect reactions.
  3. c.Identify how different levels of openness to considering new ideas affect reactions to media messages.

No Common Core standard maps here

ResourcesWIDA

WIDA language connections1

Inform · Interpretivelistening, reading and viewing

ELD-LA.6-8.Inform.Interpretive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Interpret informational texts in language arts by…

  • Evaluating the impact of author’s key word choices over the course of a text

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

ELA.7.RML.3

Students explain the purposes of media messages and the techniques used to create them.

  1. a.Determine whether the main purpose of a media message is to inform, persuade, sell, or entertain.
  2. b.Describe the techniques, including appeals and integration of multimedia, used to achieve the media message’s purpose.

Common Core: RI.7.6

ResourcesWIDA

WIDA language connections1

Inform · Interpretivelistening, reading and viewing

ELD-LA.6-8.Inform.Interpretive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Interpret informational texts in language arts by…

  • Identifying and/or summarizing main ideas and their relationship to supporting ideas
  • Analyzing observations and descriptions in textual evidence for key attributes, qualities, characteristics, activities, and behaviors

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

ELA.7.RML.4

Students evaluate components of media messages, as well as content generated by technology, when looking for information that’s accurate and/or logical.

  1. a.Determine whether statements can be verified as true or false or need to be evaluated another way.
  2. b.Check the accuracy of information that is either true or false by comparing what multiple reliable sources say about it.
  3. c.Identify reasons why technology is sometimes used to manipulate images, video, and/or audio.
  4. d.Determine whether reasons and evidence presented to support a claim do so effectively.

Common Core: RI.7.8 W.7.8 SL.7.3

ResourcesWIDAOSPI

WIDA language connections2

Explain

ELD-SI.4-12.Explain · Language for Social and Instructional Purposes, Grades 4-12

  • Offer alternatives to extend or deepen awareness of factors that contribute to particular outcomes
  • Act on feedback to revise understandings of how or why something is or works in particular ways
Argue · Interpretivelistening, reading and viewing

ELD-LA.6-8.Argue.Interpretive · Language for Language Arts, Grades 6-8

Interpret language arts arguments by…

  • Evaluating relevance, sufficiency of evidence, and validity of reasoning that support claim(s)

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

From OSPI

Smarter Balanced interim assessment

  • Research: Analyze and Integrate Information
  • Research Target 2, Item Position: 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9
  • Research: Evaluate Information and Sources
  • Research Target 3, Item Position: 6, 7
  • Research: Use Evidence
  • Research Target 4, Item Position: 1, 2, 8

ELA.7.RML.5

Priority

Students evaluate the credibility of those responsible for media messages, as well as content-generating technology.

  1. a.Identify those responsible for the content of media messages.
  2. b.Determine whether those responsible for media messages have expertise about the topic.
  3. c.Describe the reputations for accuracy and logic of those responsible for media messages.
  4. d.Determine whether those responsible for media messages exhibit a perspective relevant to the topic.

Common Core: RI.7.6 RI.7.9 W.7.8

ResourcesWIDA

WIDA language connections1

Explain

ELD-SI.4-12.Explain · Language for Social and Instructional Purposes, Grades 4-12

  • Compare changing variables, factors, and circumstances
  • Offer alternatives to extend or deepen awareness of factors that contribute to particular outcomes

OSPI's example connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. How to read these

Language demands

What these standards ask students to do with language, from OSPI's connections to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework. Each standard's own connections are under its Resources. How the connections work.

Narrate

12 standards

Telling what happened: stories, events and experiences, in order.

Interpretive · listening, reading and viewing

4

Interpret language arts narratives by…

  • Identifying a theme or central idea that develops over the course of a text×4
  • Evaluating impact of specific word choices about meaning and tone×4
  • Analyzing how character attributes and actions develop in relation to events or dialogue×3
Show the 4 standards

Expressive · speaking, writing and representing

4

Construct language arts narratives that…

  • Orient audience to context and point of view×3
  • Develop story, including themes with complication and resolution, time, and event sequences×3
  • Engage and adjust for audience×3
  • Develop and describe characters and their relationships×2
Show the 4 standards

Social and instructional · WIDA Standard 1

4
  • Connect stories with images and representations to add meaning×3
  • Share ideas about one’s own and others’ lived experiences and previous learning×3
  • Identify and raise questions about what might be unexplained, missing, or left unsaid×3
  • Recount and restate ideas to sustain and move dialogue forward×3
Show the 4 standards

Inform

7 standards

Giving facts about a topic: defining, describing, comparing and classifying.

Interpretive · listening, reading and viewing

4

Interpret informational texts in language arts by…

  • Evaluating the impact of author’s key word choices over the course of a text×3
  • Analyzing observations and descriptions in textual evidence for key attributes, qualities, characteristics, activities, and behaviors×2
  • Identifying and/or summarizing main ideas and their relationship to supporting ideas×2
Show the 4 standards

Expressive · speaking, writing and representing

3

Construct informational texts in language arts that…

  • Add precision, details, and clarity about relevant attributes, qualities, characteristics, activities, and behaviors×3
  • Develop coherence and cohesion throughout text×3
  • Establish objective or neutral stance×2
  • Introduce and define topic and/or entity for audience
Show the 3 standards

Explain

8 standards

Accounting for how or why: how something works, why it happens, how a problem was solved.

Expressive · speaking, writing and representing

1

Construct scientific explanations that…

  • Describe valid and reliable evidence from sources about a phenomenon
  • Establish neutral or objective stance in how results are communicated
Show the 1 standard

Social and instructional · WIDA Standard 1

7
  • Act on feedback to revise understandings of how or why something is or works in particular ways×6
  • Offer alternatives to extend or deepen awareness of factors that contribute to particular outcomes×4
  • Compare changing variables, factors, and circumstances×3
  • Follow and describe cycles and sequences of steps or procedures and their causes and effects
Show the 7 standards

Argue

4 standards

Taking a position, backing it with evidence and reasoning, and weighing other positions.

Interpretive · listening, reading and viewing

2

Interpret language arts arguments by…

  • Evaluating relevance, sufficiency of evidence, and validity of reasoning that support claim(s)×2
Show the 2 standards

Expressive · speaking, writing and representing

2

Construct language arts arguments that…

  • Support claims with reasons and evidence that are clear, relevant, and credible×2
  • Introduce and develop claim(s) and acknowledge counterclaim(s)
  • Establish and maintain formal style
  • Logically organize claim(s) with clear reasons and relevant evidence; offer a conclusion
Show the 2 standards

For families

OSPI's guide to Grade 7 English Language Arts, in seven languages.

Standards text, priority flags, the Common Core crosswalk and the linked resources are published by the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). PRISM is an independent tool, not affiliated with or endorsed by OSPI. The Standards for Mathematical Practice text is from the Common Core State Standards.

Check OSPI's documents before anything official. Back to the standards hub