Explore non-fiction writing and the key features of an explanation text with this information text KS2 resource pack. Pupils will explore two explanation text examples, showing WAGOLL (what a good one looks like), before writing their own explanation texts using the facts provided in the resource pack.
What is an explanation text?
An explanation text explains how or why and includes information about causes, motives or reasons. The writing should not only include a description of what happened but explain how or why. They are used to explain the processes involved in natural or social phenomenon or to explain why something is the way that it is.
Examples of explanation texts include explanations of processes in science, explaining how something works (such as an invention), explaining phenomenon such as volcanic eruptions or the water cycle or question and answer style articles.
Key features of an explanation text
- A general statement that introduces the topic.
- The steps or stages in a process are explained logically, in order.
- They are usually written in the present tense.
- Questions can be used to form titles.
- Adverbials of time can be used to sequence steps or phrases in the process (Firstly …, Then…, After that… Finally…).
- Conjunctions are used to show cause (so, because, as, yet, since etc).
- Headings, subheadings and other layout devices can be used to organise and aid presentation.
- Possibility can be indicated using modal verbs (must, can, should, will etc).
- The passive voice can be used to focus on the action or process.
What is included in this explanation text resource?
- Explanation text writing sheet, featuring a success criteria list and lists of conjunctions of time and causal conjunctions for KS2
- Explanation text writing plan with space to collect technical vocabulary and plan out an introduction, conclusion and the steps of the text
- Two explanation model texts featuring lightning facts and airplane facts that can be read and annotated
- Two explanation factsheets featuring radio and tornadoes facts that children can use to create their own explanation text
- Writing frames that children can use to create their explanation texts
National Curriculum English programme of study links
Identifying the audience for and purpose of the writing, selecting the appropriate form and using other similar writing as models for their own.
Noting and developing initial ideas, drawing on reading and research where necessary.