Strategies for Writers Grade 5 © Zaner-Bloser, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Informative/Explanatory...

Strategies for Writers Grade 5 © Zaner-Bloser, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Informative/Explanatory Writing

What is Informative/Explanatory Writing?

Informative/Explanatory writing is nonfiction writing about a topic.

Informative/Explanatory writing gives facts and information, explains how to do something, or tells readers about real people and events.


• textbooks

• newspapers

• encyclopedias

• magazines

• websites


You can find informative/explanatory writing in many different places:


Informative/Explanatory Writing Traits

• A topic that is clear and focused

• Facts, definitions, and details that develop the topic

• A strong introduction, body, and conclusion

• Well-organized paragraphs that contain transition words to connect

ideas





• A voice that is appropriate for the purpose and audience

• Language that is specific and appropriate for the audience



• Sentences that vary in length and structure to make the writing clear and easy to read

• No or few errors in grammar, usage, mechanics, and spelling



• Compare-and-Contrast describes the similarities and differences between things.

• Cause-and-Effect describes a cause and the result, or effect, of that cause.

• Problem-and-Solution describes a problem and offers one or more solutions.


How informative/explanatory writing is organized depends on its purpose.


• How-To tells readers how something happens or explains a step-by-step process.

• Summary describes the main points of a piece of writing.

• Explanatory gives the meaning of a topic.

• Research Report organizes information about a topic.


How informative/explanatory writing is organized depends on its purpose.


Informative/Explanatory Writing Example

A volcano is an opening in Earth’s crust through which

lava, gases, and rocks are ejected. Volcanoes form when

magma, or melted rock deep underground, collects and rises

under pressure. Eventually, the magma erupts through

fissures in the rock.

Topic









Definitions









Facts









Transitions









Precise Language




Scientists constantly monitor volcanoes in order to predict

eruptions. Not only do satellites watch volcanoes from space,

but scientists also climb up volcanoes to study volcanic

tremors and increases in poisonous gases. Scientists cannot

stop volcanoes from erupting. However, they can help us

better understand these amazing natural wonders.

Concluding Statement



• Research Report

• Cause-Effect Report

• Problem-Solution Essay

• How-To Essay

• Compare-and-Contrast Essay


Some common types of informative/explanatory writing include the following:

Strategies for Writers Grade 5 © Zaner-Bloser, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Informative/Explanatory...

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