Explanatory+Writing+How+to

EXPLANATORY WRITING


 * Purpose**: Students need to explain historical events and concepts clearly in their own words.


 * How to do this**: Usually students take notes from a reading or film. This is a list of main ideas. This is the body of the summary or explanatory writing. They simply add an introduction and conclusion.


 * Format**: Usually 4 - 5 paragraphs:

Paragraph 1: Introduction - This is 2 - 3 sentences and explains who did what, about when, and where. Do not use the word "I." Start with a noun such as "Ancient civilizations" or "Ancient Greeks..."

Paragraphs 2 and 3: Body - The body of the paragraph has the notes grouped into about 2 categories. Turn the notes into sentences that make sense and explain what happened. Each category of notes is its own paragraph.

Paragraph 4: Conclusion - This is about 2 - 3 sentences and restates what was in the introduction in different words.