Writing to Inform: Article

Writing to Inform: Step 1

By Savannah Arnhart

Sharing Information

What is Informational Writing?

Informational writing teaches or explains a topic to readers. The writer uses facts, definitions, quotations, and examples-- often from research-- to develop the topic.

Informational Writing

Key Features:

• an introduction that clearly states a topic and prepares readers to learn more about the topic

• facts & details that are logically organized in paragraphs

• precise language and domain-specific vocabulary that express ideas concisely and accurately

• linking words, phrases, and clauses that connect one idea to the next

• a conclusion that restates the topic, sums up the important points, and leaves readers with something to think about

Before you write your essay, you'll study a model. First, read to understand what it's about. Then reread to understand how it was written.​

Study a Mentor Text

Multiple Choice

Which sentence states the writer's topic?

• When you turn on a television or computer, electricity flows into it and makes it work.

• But where does the electricity com from?

• Two important sources of electricity are coal power plants and nuclear power plants.

• Both types of plant provide power that keeps our country running, and both have their benefits and problems.

Open Ended

Explain why the writer includes headings in his article.

Multiple Select

In paragraph 3, the writer uses 3 linking words and phrases to compare and contrast coal and nuclear plants. Draw a box around each of these words or phrases. Select the 3 linking words or phrases

• Just like

• In contrast to

• Instead

• There are

Open Ended

The writer identifies 3 benefits and 3 problems with coal and nuclear power in paragraphs 4-7. Write the 3 benefits and problems below.

Multiple Select

The writer uses many terms that are specific to science writing. They very clearly name or explain scientific information. Choose 3 domain-specific terms below that are used in paragraph 6.

• carbon dioxide

• problem

• climate change

• nonrenewble resource

Open Ended

In paragraph 8, why do you think the writer included the last sentence?