Skip to content
PlayOwl

English · Grade 3

Explain a Topic Clearly

Children learn to write informative pieces that teach a reader about a topic. Using a model text, How Snowflakes Form, they introduce a topic, group related information into paragraphs with headings, develop each part with facts, definitions and details, connect ideas with linking words and finish with a concluding statement, then plan, draft and revise their own piece.

  • 4 lessons
  • About 100 minutes
  • Informative writing check: 8 questions
  • Ways to answer: fill in the blanks, choose an answer, highlight a text, match pairs, sort into groups and write a short answer
See plans Included with Family, Teacher and School plans. Open in PlayOwl

What learners will discover

  • Introduce a topic and group related information together in paragraphs or sections, adding a diagram or illustration when it helps.
  • Develop the topic with facts, definitions and details.
  • Use linking words and phrases (also, another, and, more, but, for example) to connect ideas.
  • Provide a concluding statement or section, and write and revise a complete informative piece.

Lessons

  1. Introduce and group 4 steps2 practiceabout 25 min
  2. Facts, definitions and details 4 steps2 practiceabout 25 min
  3. Linking words 4 steps2 practiceabout 23 min
  4. Conclude and write 3 steps2 practiceabout 27 min
  5. Informative writing check 8 questions at the end

Keep exploring

Games to practice with

  • Memory LanternsFlip glowing lanterns to find pairs that belong together.
  • Word WorkshopBuild the word for each picture, one sound at a time.
  • Sentence TheatreYour words direct the show: change a word and the stage changes too.

More 3rd grade reading

Guides for grown-ups