Exploring Explanation Texts About Canals

Year 4 English Learning about how writers explain things clearly Duration: 60 minutes

WALT (We Are Learning To)

Identify key features of explanation texts Understand why these features are important Recognise present tense verbs and technical vocabulary Spot causal conjunctions (because, so, therefore)

Success Criteria

I can identify and label features in an explanation text I can explain why these features are important I can spot present tense verbs and technical words I can find causal conjunctions and understand their purpose

What is an Explanation Text?

Think about texts that explain HOW something works Or texts that explain WHY something happens Can you think of any examples?

Key Features of Explanation Texts

Group Detective Work

Work in groups of 5 students Use your canal explanation text sample Find and label each feature using colour-coded cards Use sentence starters to help explain your findings

Differentiation Support

{"left":"EAL learners: Sentence starter strips and word banks\nDyslexia support: Clear fonts and colour-coded features\nLower ability: Paired work and visual cues","right":"Advanced learners: Create new explanation text titles\nExtension: Design titles for canal or magic explanations\nChallenge: Use technical vocabulary in your titles"}

Next Steps in Our Learning Journey

Today: Identified explanation text features Next lesson: Writing introductions using present tense Building towards: Creating our own explanation texts Remember: Explanation texts help readers understand HOW and WHY