1. Informational/Explanatory Writing Informational/Explanatory Writing (same basic format as argument writing) Includes: Simple presentation of information Descriptions Compare and contrast essays How-to explanations Transitions would be similar to those used in argument writing.

2. Pre-writing Develop a thesis statement that presents the main idea of the topic you will be explaining. Obviously, it will NOT be a persuasive or argumentative thesis that lists reasons that support your viewpoint. Your goal is to INFORM, not to persuade or argue a point.

3. Informational/Explanatory Thesis Examples: 1.Teenagers are well-suited to handle a variety of part- time jobs very capably. 2.The two most positive aspects of OJRMS are its talented teachers and its warm community feeling. talented teachers and its warm community feeling.

4. Informational/Explanatory Thesis Examples: 3. There are many differences between private and public schools. public schools. 4. Anyone can learn how to change a flat tire.

5. Create an outline or graphic organizer using your favorite format: The Bank The Bank 4-Square 4-Square Bulleted Outline Bulleted Outline Web Organizer Web Organizer

6. Introduction Paragraph Broad common knowledge statement that your audience will agree with. Lead the reader more specifically into your thesis statement with a background statement or central idea statement. End introduction paragraph with your thesis statement.

7. Body Paragraphs (2 or 3 of them) Transition word and topic sentence that presents your first key point. Evidence or example 1. Explanation of evidence 1. Evidence or example 2. Explanation of evidence 2. Observation, analysis, or conclusion statement. This means that…; This shows that…; This is important because…

8. Conclusion Summarize and review your key points. Observations, analysis, reflections, and conclusions about the impact of your topic. This means that…; This matters because…; This is important because… Explain possible positive or negative outcomes. Leave reader with a thought-provoking idea or a new way of looking at things. Perhaps point to future implications of your subject.

9. Content/Depth of Your Ideas This is the most important aspect that PSSA essay scorers look for, so take the time to think hard, and brainstorm solid, original ideas before outlining. This is the most important aspect that PSSA essay scorers look for, so take the time to think hard, and brainstorm solid, original ideas before outlining. Dig deep! Dig deep!

10. Use Transition Words This is the second most important skill that PSSA scorers look for, so use a variety of transitional words and phrases that lead your reader through your essay in a clear and logical way.

11. Style Tips Avoid weak, overused words like things, get, good, bad, stuff, these guys, etc. Upgrade word choices when possible.

12. Sentence Design Use a variety of simple, compound, complex, and complex-compound structures. Correct run-ons by using periods, semi-colons, or a conjunction with a comma before it.

13. Conventions Capitalize proper nouns and the first word of every sentence. Put periods at the end of every sentence. Apply the comma rules you have learned. Give singular antecedents singular pronouns. Everyone needs his or her snack. (not their snack)