RL.8.2
Determine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze its development over the course of the text, including its relationship to the characters, setting, and plot; provide an objective summary of the text.
Cluster RL.8.AKey Ideas and Details
How this standard develops across Grades 6–8
The ELA strands share anchor standards, so the same skill appears at each grade with rising demand. Here is the full arc.
- RL.6.2Grade 6: Determine a theme or central idea of a text and how it is conveyed through particular details; provide a summary of the text distinct from personal opinions or judgments.
- RL.7.2Grade 7: Determine 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.
- RL.8.2Grade 8: Determine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze its development over the course of the text, including its relationship to the characters, setting, and plot; provide an objective summary of the text.
Where this sits in the school year
Our Grade 8 English Language Arts scope and sequence teaches RL.8.2 in Unit 1: Evidence and Theme in Literature, weeks 1–4.
Cite the evidence that MOST strongly supports an analysis; determine a theme and trace its development; write objective summaries. See the full pacing guide →
Teaching Kits for this standard
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