1. How to Write an Informative/Explanatory Essay
9th grade
Unit Four

2. Informative/Explanatory Writing
Informative and explanatory writing should rely on facts to inform or explain.
Informative writing serves several purposes:
To increase readers’ knowledge of a subject
To help readers better understand a procedure or process
To provide readers with an enhanced comprehension of a concept
It should also feature a clear introduction, body and conclusion.

3. An effective informative/explanatory contains these elements:
A topic sentence or thesis statement that introduces the concepts or subject
Relevant facts, examples and details that expand upon a topic
Definitions, quotation and/or graphics that support the information given
A structure that presents information in a direct , clear manner
Clear transitions
Precise words and technical vocabulary where appropriate
Formal language and tone
A conclusion that supports the information given and provides fresh insights

4. Introduction and Conclusion Paragraphs
Introduction Paragraph
Conclusion Paragraph
The introduction is engaging and establishes the claim in a compelling way.
Might include a hook as the first sentence.
Thesis should be your last sentence.
The conclusion offers fresh insight into the claim.
Calls for action
Answers the “So What?”

5. Looking at examples…
Turn to page R13 (to R16) in your books. We are going to read 4 examples of informative/explanatory essays ranging from a low score to a high score. We are going to discuss as a class what makes each of these essays strong and/or weak.
Please refer back to these examples for guidance anytime you are required to write a narrative piece of your own.