Informative Writing Assignment I

Informative or informational writing talks about a topic, presenting facts and explaining them so that your reader can understand the topic.

Your first informational writing assignment this semester will be written about a canonized saint of your choice. It will follow a 5 paragraph essay format. Follow the outline below to assist you.

Informational Essay Outline

Introduction

1. Hook- question, fact, or statement

2. State your essay topic

3. State your 3 main ideas that will be in your body paragraphs

Body Paragraphs 

(there are 3 body paragraphs total)

1. Topic sentence- a clear sentence explaining what the ENTIRE paragraph will be about.

2. Transitions- sentence starters that go before your facts and elaboration

3. 2-3 facts

4. 2-3 pieces of elaboration- explaining your facts, telling why a fact is important, and/or giving a related definition with an explanation.

Conclusion

1. Statement about your topic (from your introduction) OR a list of 3 words.

2. 3 sentences that sum up your key ideas from your 3 body paragraphs.

3. A question that leaves your audience thinking.

Examples of Informational Writing Paragraphs

Introduction

   What might America be like if we didn’t start off with a great president like George Washington? George Washington, our first president, led an interesting childhood. As an adult, he helped America by leading the Continental Army against the British. Perhaps his biggest accomplishment was that he was our first president, leading the way for future presidents. 

Body Paragraph

  George Washington made a huge impact on the United States by becoming the first president the nation has ever had. For example, George Washington established many roles and traditions as the President of the United States. This is important because traditions like a term as president lasting 4 years was made because of George Washington. George also relied on the advice of others to help him make informed decisions as president, and he did this by creating a cabinet. A cabinet is a group of advisors that help the president make decisions. Each member of the cabinet is an expert on a topic, and a cabinet is still used by presidents today. George Washington was a respected leader for how he cared about other people and listened to others to make decisions that would benefit all citizens.

Sentences highlighted in red = facts

Sentences highlig hted in blue = elaboration

Words highlighted in green = transitions

Conclusion:

   Challenges. Bravery. Leadership. All of these words describe the life of George Washington. He faced many challenges as a child, and he demonstrated bravery as a general in the Continental Army. Finally, he was one of the most incredible leaders of all time. Think back to your roots: would you have been on the side of Washington or would you have been a loyalist?

This type of conclusion is a list conclusion. You pick three words that relate to the ideas in each of your body paragraphs.  Then explain how each word relates to the topic. End with a question.