(1) The benchmark for communication arts writing content standard 5 for a student at the end of grade 8 is the ability to:

(a) apply the steps of the writing process in a variety of written work;

(b) select appropriate topics and generate thesis statements that indicate the writer's purpose for writing;

(c) generate and develop main ideas using a variety of relevant supporting details;

(d) organize writing using transitions and a logical progression of ideas;

(e) demonstrate knowledge of language choices and their impact on writing through control of voice, strong sentence fluency, and effective word choice;

(f) apply conventions of standard written English (e.g., usage, punctuation, and spelling) appropriate for purpose, audience, and form;

(g) identify and describe the purpose, audience, format, and tone in one's own writing;

(h) analyze the characteristics of different writing forms and genres and write in a variety of forms and genres;

(i) compose written works demonstrating the ability to sustain focus through a variety of forms and genres;

(j) use an information problem solving process to collect and utilize information to research a topic;

(k) obtain and use information legally and respectfully and appropriately credit ideas and words of others, including those of Montana American Indians;

(l) set goals, seek feedback, and monitor writing progress; and

(m) use writing as a means of clarifying thought and reflecting on learning.