Explanation TextCreated by :

Hafni Sofhia (11)XII Science 2

What’s the purpose?• To give an account of some

phenomenon.• to explain how things come to

be the way they are, or to analyze how things work.

Types of text

1. Those that explain how things are (ex. How a kite works)

2. Those that explain why things are (ex. Why Volcanoes Erupt)

Generic structure

This can serve as an introduction to the explanation, and it gives the audience a description of event or thing and a preview of what the rest of the text will be about.

1. general statement

These should be in a sequence so that the audience is told of the process that causes the event or thing to happen.

2. sequenced explanation

If this is included, it signals to the audience that the explanation has finished. (some explanation do not have a conclusion).

3. Closing

Language Feathures• Focus on generic, non-human

participants.• Use mainly of general and abstract

nouns, action verbs, simple present tense, passive voice, conjunction of time and cause, noun phrase, adverbial phrase, complex sentences, and technical language

How do you write an explanation text?

• Structure is very important• Plan• Sequence ideas so that they are in

the correct order

How a Kite WorksA kite is a flying object that is heavier

than air. (definition)A kite consists of a frame, a skin

covering the frame and a long string that is held by the user. (Components/Parts)

A kite becomes airborne when the wind pressure between the kite and the ground lifts the structure into the air. The tilt of the plane surface of the kite causes a lesser air pressure to occur behind the kite’s upper surface than the wind on the under-surface. (Operations – How it works; Why it works; Cause and effect)

Kites have been used as signals, experimental instruments in atmospheric measurement and as play objects dating back many thousands of years. (Interesting comments, Special Features, Evaluation)