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Grade 8 · English Language Arts · Unit 1 of 12

Talking & Working Together

Listening, sharing ideas and giving kind feedback

What your child practises

Exploring and sharing thoughts and experiences, listening to other points of view, using inclusive language, working fairly in a group and giving feedback that is specific and kind.

Alberta Curriculum learning outcome: General Outcomes 1, 5 · sharing ideas and experiences, listening with respect, working in groups and giving helpful feedback

Sample questions

A taste of this unit. In the app, questions change every time and get easier or harder to match your child.

  1. Question 1

    In a group, two people suggest different plans. What is a fair way to decide?

    • The oldest person decides.
    • Whoever is loudest wins.
    • Choose the plan nobody likes.
    • Talk about the strengths of each plan, then choose together.
    Show answer

    Talk about the strengths of each plan, then choose together.

    Hint: Shared decisions work best when ideas are discussed openly.

  2. Question 2

    A peer's feedback says, 'Your intro was strong. Try adding an example in the second part.' What makes this feedback effective?

    • It is vague.
    • It only finds fault.
    • It is specific, kind and gives a next step.
    • It only praises.
    Show answer

    It is specific, kind and gives a next step.

    Hint: Useful feedback helps the writer or speaker know what to do next.

  3. Question 3

    A classmate shares a personal story. What is the best way to respond?

    • Tell them how to live.
    • Laugh at the story.
    • Share a secret about someone else.
    • Thank them and say what you learned or felt.
    Show answer

    Thank them and say what you learned or felt.

    Hint: Sharing experiences takes courage, and a kind reply builds trust.

  4. Question 4

    Which statement is an example of a fact rather than an opinion?

    • The lake is the prettiest place.
    • Winter is too long.
    • The lake froze on December 3.
    • Skating is the best sport.
    Show answer

    The lake froze on December 3.

    Hint: A fact can be checked. An opinion says what someone thinks or feels.

  5. Question 5

    In a group task, one person always does the talking. What could the group do?

    • Give everyone a turn and a role.
    • Stop the task.
    • Let that person do all the work.
    • Vote the quiet people out.
    Show answer

    Give everyone a turn and a role.

    Hint: A fair group makes sure every voice is heard.

  6. Question 6

    Which is an example of inclusive language?

    • Boys do this and girls do that.
    • Everyone is welcome to share.
    • Only the best readers should talk.
    • Anyone who is new should stay quiet.
    Show answer

    Everyone is welcome to share.

    Hint: Inclusive language makes every person feel welcome.

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