From Expository to Explanatory Informational Writing and the Common Core Standards
What is Informational/Explanatory Writing? According to the Common Core Standards, informational/explanatory writing texts examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content. Write routinely over extended time frames (time for research, reflection, and revision) and shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or two) http://www.corestandards.org/assets/CCSSI_ELA%20Standards.pdf
Essential Skills for Informative/ Explanatory Writing Introduce and develop a topic Convey ideas clearly Use concrete details Use precise language http://www.corestandards.org/assets/CCSSI_ELA%20Standards.pdf
Types of Informational/Explanatory Writing Essay Report Poster Critique/review Biography Autobiography Directions Term paper Article Brochure Interview Diary/journal Recipe Rules for game Procedures/instructions Summary * http://www.slideshare.net/MurrayHillPD/pre-service-info-writing2
Additional Resources Informative/explanatory anchor papers can be found on the common core website. (appendix C) www.corestandards.org Additional materials and resources for informative/explanatory writing can be found on the PDE SAS website. www.pdesas.org Go to standards – choose your grade level and writing as the subject area Locate a standard on informational writing and on the right side click “materials and resources”. This section will provide you with sample lessons and activities you can use to teach and practice informational/explanatory writing.