Explanation Text

 

Explanation Text

Part 1

Let's have a look at the concept of explanation texts. We'll learn the kind of language used & look at examples of how to write an explanation text effectively.

What is an Explanation Text?

An Explanation text is a piece of non-fiction writing explaining an action process or event in a detailed but simple way. It features numbered points, time connectives, pictures, diagrams, labels and captions to help the receiver understand the process of what’s being delivered.

Examples of How to Write an Explanation Text

How is Ice Cream Made?

“Ice cream is made with milk, cream and sugar. All of the ingredients are mixed together. Then, the mixed ingredients are heated up to kill off any germs. Flavours and colours are added next, strawberry flavoured ice cream is usually pink.The mixture is then frozen and whipped at the same time. This makes it softer.”

What are the Key Features of an Explanation Text?

• Explanation text is typically written in the present tense with formal to-the-point language that doesn’t deviate from the topic.
• It uses separate text with headings and subheadings to make the explanation text simple and easy to understand.
• Add pictures and diagrams with labels for visual learners.
• Any technical vocabulary used should fit into a glossary at the end to help with jargon.
• Numbered points that explain something step-by-step.

Here is the above explanation text example that's been rewritten in an instructional way:

How is Ice Cream Made?

1. Mix milk, cream and sugar.
2. Heat up the mixture to kill off any germs.
3. Add flavours and colourings to the mixture, i.e. strawberry and pink food colouring.
4. Freeze and whip the mixture to make the ice-cream consistency.

How can I use explanation text examples to support students’ writing?

You can use explanation text examples within the classroom to support the following:

• For text analysis where children search for genre features.
• To support teachers and staff in their knowledge and understanding of the 2014 English National Curriculum objectives.
• As a high-quality example for children to aim for in their writing.
• Children are able to see how language devices can work in the content of a complete text.
• For SLT or English subject leaders to develop a portfolio of exemplar texts.

Part 2

EXPLANATION TEXT 

•An explanation text is a non-fiction text that is used to describe how or why things happen.

SOCIAL FUNCTION

 •to describe or explain how or why a certain phenomenon happens.

STRUCTURE

title

1. An opening statement that identifies the process to be explained

2. Description or Sequences why and how

something happens

3. Conclusion

LINGUISTIC FEATURES 

• using simple present tense

• using passive sentences

• using linking words or conjunction (in addition, then, moreover, etc..)

• using action verbs (breaks, erupts, etc)

• giving a detailed description to create

a rich meaning. 

EXAMPLE 

Part 3

here the video