Literacy

Expository Writing: Informative Paragraphs

The Spark

Concept

Expository writing explains or informs. A well-structured expository paragraph begins with a topic sentence (the main idea), continues with evidence and explanation, and ends with a concluding statement. Transition words such as furthermore, in addition, as a result and in conclusion help connect ideas smoothly.

Activity

Ask your child to explain one topic they know well — their sport, hobby or a recent history project — as if explaining it to someone who knows nothing about it. Notice how they structure the explanation.

Check

After the worksheet, ask your child to read their paragraph aloud and check: Does the first sentence clearly state the topic? Is each piece of evidence followed by an explanation? Does the last sentence summarise or conclude?

3

Match the Paragraph Parts

Draw a line to match each paragraph part to its description.

Topic sentence
Evidence
Explanation
Transition word
Concluding statement
A fact, statistic or example that supports the main idea
Tells the reader what the paragraph is about
Shows how ideas connect — e.g. furthermore, therefore
Explains why the evidence matters
Wraps up the idea and links to what comes next
4

Identify the Topic Sentence

Read each paragraph. Circle the letter of the sentence that is the topic sentence.

A) Koalas sleep up to 22 hours per day. B) The koala's diet of eucalyptus leaves provides very little energy, which explains many of its unusual behaviours. C) They move slowly and stay still for long periods. D) They have a specialised digestive system to process the toxins in the leaves.

A
B
C
D

A) Every morning, students line up outside. B) Many children arrive early before school begins. C) School routines help students feel safe and ready to learn. D) Teachers greet students at the door.

A
B
C
D
TipA topic sentence is usually — but not always — the first sentence of the paragraph. Good readers can spot it even when it appears in the middle or at the end.
6

Sort the Transition Words

Sort each transition word or phrase into the correct category based on its purpose.

furthermore
as a result
however
in conclusion
in addition
therefore
on the other hand
overall
moreover
consequently
although
to summarise
Adding information
Cause and effect
Contrasting
Concluding
TipTransition words are the glue of expository writing. After sorting, challenge your child to use one from each column in a sentence about any topic they are studying.
7

Label the Paragraph Structure

Read the model paragraph. Label each sentence with TS (topic sentence), E (evidence), EX (explanation) or CS (concluding statement).

PARAGRAPH: Regular physical activity is essential for the health of primary school students. Research by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows that children who exercise at least 60 minutes daily have better concentration and lower rates of anxiety. This matters because learning is harder when students are stressed or unable to focus. Furthermore, active children tend to sleep better, which improves their mood and memory. Overall, building physical activity into the school day benefits both the body and the mind. Write the label (TS, E, EX or CS) for each sentence:

9

Write Three Topic Sentences

Write a strong topic sentence for each of the following expository paragraph topics. Make each one specific and interesting.

Topic: The importance of water for the human body

Topic: Why rainforests are important to the planet

Topic: How libraries benefit a community

TipIf your child struggles, suggest they think about: What is the most important thing I could say about this topic? That thought often becomes the topic sentence.
10

Choose the Best Topic Sentence

Circle the sentence that would make the best topic sentence for an expository paragraph on each topic.

Topic: Coral reefs

Coral reefs are found in warm, shallow water.
Coral reefs are among the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth, yet they face serious threats from climate change.
Some coral has bleached due to warm water.

Topic: Reading

Reading is good.
Many students read books at school.
Reading regularly builds vocabulary, improves concentration and develops empathy.

Topic: Renewable energy

Solar panels use the sun.
Wind turbines are tall.
Renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power offer a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels.
13

Evidence or Opinion?

Sort each statement into the correct column — Evidence (can be verified) or Opinion (personal view).

Australia has over 500 species of eucalyptus trees.
Eucalyptus trees are the most beautiful plants in the world.
The Great Barrier Reef stretches over 2,300 kilometres.
Snorkelling in the reef is the best experience imaginable.
On average, Australians eat 1.9 kg of red meat per week.
Vegetarian food is more delicious than meat.
Evidence
Opinion
14

Improve the Evidence

Read each weak evidence statement. Rewrite it as a stronger piece of evidence by adding a specific fact, statistic or expert example.

WEAK: 'Many people exercise regularly.' STRONGER:

WEAK: 'Reading is popular among students.' STRONGER:

WEAK: 'The environment is being damaged.' STRONGER:

16

Match Evidence to Explanation

Draw a line to match each piece of evidence to the explanation that tells the reader why it matters.

Studies show children who read 20 minutes per day score significantly higher in literacy tests.
The Great Barrier Reef is home to more than 1,500 species of fish.
Australia generates less than 25% of its electricity from renewable sources.
Over 90% of plastics are not recycled globally.
This means Australia still relies heavily on fossil fuels for its energy needs.
This explains why reading daily is one of the most powerful habits a student can develop.
This highlights the urgent need for better waste management systems worldwide.
This demonstrates the extraordinary biodiversity of this unique ecosystem.
TipThe explanation (the 'so what' sentence) is what turns raw evidence into an argument. Without it, readers are left to draw their own conclusions — which may not be what the writer intended.
18

Write a Topic Sentence + Evidence + Explanation

Choose one of these topics and write a three-sentence mini-paragraph: Topic sentence → Evidence → Explanation. Topics: Homework, School gardens, Recycling.

My topic: ___ My three-sentence paragraph:

Draw here
TipThree-sentence paragraphs are a great scaffold — they force the writer to focus on one idea only. Once the structure is automatic, expanding to five or six sentences feels natural.
21

Plan Your Paragraph

Use the information sandwich planner to organise your ideas before writing a full expository paragraph.

Topic sentence (main idea):

Evidence 1 (fact, statistic or example):

Explanation 1 (why does this matter?):

Evidence 2:

Explanation 2:

Concluding statement:

TipPlanning before writing reduces the number of drafts needed. Five minutes of planning saves twenty minutes of rewriting.
22

Write Your Expository Paragraph

Use your planner to write a full expository paragraph. Include at least two transition words. Underline each transition word.

My paragraph:

Draw here
25

Circle the Better Evidence

In each pair, circle the piece of evidence that is stronger and more specific.

Topic: The health benefits of sleep

Sleep is important for your health.
Research from the Sleep Foundation shows that children aged 8–12 need 9–11 hours of sleep per night for optimal brain development.

Topic: The decline of bee populations

A 2023 report found that global bee populations have declined by over 30% in the past decade, threatening food security.
Bees are dying and that is a big problem for everyone.

Topic: The benefits of public libraries

Libraries are good places to visit.
A 2022 Australian survey found that 78% of library users reported improved reading skills and increased access to learning resources.
TipStrong evidence is specific, verifiable and directly connected to the topic. Vague statements like 'many people think' are not strong evidence.
26

Write a Concluding Statement

Read each topic sentence and the evidence provided. Write a strong concluding statement that wraps up the paragraph.

TOPIC SENTENCE: Daily reading has a profound impact on children's academic performance. EVIDENCE: Studies show students who read 20 minutes daily score 50% higher on comprehension tests. EXPLANATION: This shows how small daily habits compound over time. YOUR CONCLUDING STATEMENT:

TOPIC SENTENCE: Reducing single-use plastics is one of the most important steps we can take to protect our oceans. EVIDENCE: Over 8 million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean every year. EXPLANATION: This plastic harms marine animals and enters the food chain. YOUR CONCLUDING STATEMENT:

27

Match the Transition Word to Its Purpose

Match each transition word or phrase to the job it does in a sentence.

In conclusion
Furthermore
However
As a result
For example
Introduces a specific illustration of the main idea
Signals a contrasting or opposing idea
Wraps up the whole argument
Shows a consequence or outcome
Adds another supporting point
TipIf your child is unsure, suggest they try putting the transition word in a sentence and see what relationship it creates between two ideas.
29

Self-Edit Your Paragraph

Re-read the paragraph you wrote earlier. Use this checklist to improve it. Then rewrite the improved version below.

CHECKLIST (tick each one): ☐ Topic sentence clearly states the main idea ☐ Each piece of evidence is specific and accurate ☐ Each piece of evidence is followed by an explanation ☐ At least two transition words are used correctly ☐ Concluding statement wraps up the main idea Rewritten paragraph:

Draw here
31

Organise the Paragraph

These sentences are from an expository paragraph but they are in the wrong order. Number them 1–5 to show the correct order.

This demonstrates why regular sleep is one of the most important factors in a child's academic success.
Furthermore, poor sleep has been linked to lower emotional regulation and increased anxiety.
Sleep is essential for learning and memory consolidation in primary school students.
As a result, students who sleep well are better prepared to focus and retain new information at school.
Research shows that children aged 8–12 who sleep fewer than nine hours per night score significantly lower on memory and attention tasks.
Correct order (1–5)
TipParagraph ordering is a key comprehension and writing skill. It reveals whether students understand how ideas build on each other in expository text.
34

Compare Two Topic Sentences

Read these two topic sentences about the same topic. Answer the questions below.

TOPIC SENTENCE A: Dogs are popular pets. TOPIC SENTENCE B: Dogs provide companionship, improve mental health and give their owners a reason to exercise daily, making them one of the most beneficial pets a family can own. Q1: What specific details does Sentence B include that Sentence A does not?

Q2: Which sentence better prepares the reader for the evidence that will follow? Why?

Q3: Write your own strong topic sentence about a pet, sport or hobby:

TipComparing strong and weak examples is one of the most effective ways to develop writing quality. The gap between the two reveals what a good writer adds.
35

Which Sentence Is the Concluding Statement?

Read each paragraph excerpt. Circle the sentence that is the concluding statement.

A) The Southern Ocean is home to 80% of the world's krill. B) Krill support the entire Antarctic food web. C) Without krill, the marine ecosystems of the Southern Ocean would collapse. D) Whales, penguins and seals all depend on krill for survival.

A
B
C
D

A) Books develop imagination and empathy. B) Research shows avid readers score higher on emotional intelligence tests. C) When we read stories from perspectives different to our own, we practise understanding other people. D) Overall, reading fiction is one of the best tools we have for building a more empathetic society.

A
B
C
D
37

Topic Sentence Expansion

Expand each simple sentence into a strong topic sentence by adding specific details.

SIMPLE: Water is important. STRONG TOPIC SENTENCE:

SIMPLE: Bees are useful insects. STRONG TOPIC SENTENCE:

SIMPLE: Libraries are good for communities. STRONG TOPIC SENTENCE:

38

Match the Text Feature to Its Purpose

Match each expository text feature to its purpose.

Subheading
Diagram with labels
Table
Glossary
Bold text
Presents information in rows and columns for easy comparison
Highlights key vocabulary or important terms
Explains the meaning of technical words used in the text
Introduces a new section or idea within the text
Shows how something works or is structured visually
TipExpository texts use visual and structural features to help readers navigate and understand the content. Recognising these features improves both reading and writing.
41

Research and Note-Taking

Choose a topic from your current school curriculum. Find two facts or statistics from a reliable source. Write them in the note-taking frame below.

My topic:

Source (book title, website or encyclopaedia):

Fact 1 (in my own words):

Fact 2 (in my own words):

TipNote-taking is a pre-writing skill students often skip. Encourage your child to write facts in their own words rather than copying directly. This is called 'paraphrasing' and is an essential academic skill.
43

Formal or Informal?

Sort each phrase into the correct column — Formal (suitable for expository writing) or Informal (not suitable).

Research suggests that...
I reckon...
Evidence indicates...
Heaps of people think...
Furthermore, studies show...
It's kind of a big deal.
This demonstrates that...
Loads of scientists agree.
Formal
Informal
TipSwitching between registers (formal and informal language) is a skill. Understanding why one is right for expository writing helps students develop audience awareness.
46

Write a Full Expository Paragraph From a Note

Use these notes to write a full, well-structured expository paragraph. Add transition words and a concluding statement.

NOTES: • Topic: The importance of bees to agriculture • Fact 1: Bees pollinate approximately one third of all food crops grown globally • Explanation: Without pollination, fruit, vegetables and nuts would not grow • Fact 2: The value of bee pollination to Australian agriculture is estimated at $14.2 billion per year • Explanation: Losing bees would cause food prices to rise dramatically My paragraph:

Draw here
47

Identify the Explanation

Read each evidence statement. Circle the sentence that provides the best explanation of why the evidence matters.

EVIDENCE: Studies show children who eat breakfast achieve higher concentration levels throughout the morning. Which sentence best explains why this matters?

This is interesting research.
This means that providing breakfast programmes in schools could directly improve learning outcomes for disadvantaged students.
Breakfast is good.

EVIDENCE: Australia loses approximately 1.5 million tonnes of food to waste each year. Which sentence best explains why this matters?

This highlights the significant environmental and economic cost of not using food efficiently.
People should not waste food.
That is a lot of food.
48

Match the Paragraph Weakness to the Fix

Match each paragraph weakness to the revision strategy that would fix it.

The topic sentence is too vague — 'Sport is good for children.'
The evidence is a personal opinion — 'I think reading is important.'
There is no explanation after the evidence.
The paragraph has three different topic ideas.
There are no transition words between sentences.
Add 'This means...' or 'This shows...' after the fact to connect the evidence to the argument.
Replace with a specific fact or statistic from a reliable source.
Rewrite as a specific claim — 'Regular sport builds teamwork skills and reduces childhood obesity.'
Add words like 'furthermore', 'however' or 'as a result' to link the sentences.
Choose one main idea and remove the sentences that do not relate to it.
TipLearning to diagnose weakness in writing is an advanced skill. A student who can identify 'the explanation is missing' in their own writing is on track for strong secondary school results.
50

Plan a Three-Paragraph Expository Text

Plan a three-paragraph expository text on a topic you are currently studying. Complete the planner below.

My topic:

Paragraph 1 topic sentence:

Paragraph 2 topic sentence:

Paragraph 3 topic sentence (could be a conclusion):

One piece of evidence for each paragraph (list three):

TipPlanning a three-paragraph text is a significant milestone. If your child can do this independently, they are operating well above the Year 5 average for structured writing.
53

Write a Linking Sentence

Read each paragraph topic and write a linking sentence at the end that signals the topic of the next paragraph.

PARAGRAPH 1 TOPIC: The physical health benefits of regular exercise. LINKING SENTENCE (signals next topic: mental health benefits):

PARAGRAPH 2 TOPIC: How rainforests produce oxygen. LINKING SENTENCE (signals next topic: biodiversity of rainforests):

54

Organise a Three-Paragraph Text

Sort each sentence into the correct paragraph of a three-paragraph text about why reading is important.

Reading regularly builds vocabulary, comprehension and empathy.
This report will explain why reading is one of the most valuable habits a student can develop.
In conclusion, the evidence clearly shows that daily reading improves academic performance and social development.
Studies show students who read 20 minutes per day score 50% higher on literacy assessments.
Furthermore, reading fiction has been shown to increase empathy by exposing readers to diverse perspectives.
Reading is not just a school skill — it is a life skill with lasting benefits.
Introduction
Body paragraph
Conclusion
TipSorting activities train students to recognise which ideas belong together. This builds the skill of paragraph unity — keeping each paragraph focused on one idea.
55

Write Your Three-Paragraph Expository Text

Use your plan from Activity 50 to write a full three-paragraph expository text. Use your transition words, evidence and linking sentences.

My three-paragraph expository text:

Draw here
TipThis is the biggest writing challenge on this worksheet. Allow 20–30 minutes. Encourage your child to write a first draft, then use the self-edit checklist before writing the final version.
56

Identify the Best Conclusion

Read each pair of conclusion sentences. Circle the one that is more effective for ending an expository paragraph.

Topic: The importance of physical activity for children

So kids should exercise.
In conclusion, the evidence clearly demonstrates that regular physical activity is essential for children's physical health, mental wellbeing and academic performance.

Topic: The impact of plastic pollution on marine life

Overall, reducing plastic pollution is one of the most urgent environmental challenges of our time, requiring action from individuals, industries and governments alike.
So we need to stop using plastic because it hurts fish and stuff.

Topic: How animals adapt to their environments

Animals are really adaptable.
To summarise, animals have evolved a remarkable range of physical and behavioural adaptations that allow them to thrive in even the most extreme environments on Earth.
58

Match the Sentence to the Paragraph Part

Read each sentence. Match it to the paragraph part it represents in an expository paragraph about the water cycle.

The water cycle is the continuous movement of water through the Earth's atmosphere and surface.
Evaporation occurs when the sun heats surface water, turning it into vapour that rises into the atmosphere.
This process is driven by solar energy and gravity, which together power the cycle endlessly.
In conclusion, the water cycle is a fundamental natural process that distributes fresh water across the planet.
Explanation — tells us why the evidence matters
Topic sentence — states the main idea
Concluding statement — wraps up the paragraph
Evidence — gives specific factual detail
59

Write a Short Expository Text About Science

Write a short expository paragraph (5–7 sentences) explaining a science concept you are currently studying. Use the information sandwich structure.

My science concept:

My paragraph:

Draw here
TipCross-curriculum writing reinforces learning in both subjects. Writing about science consolidates scientific understanding while practising expository structure simultaneously.
63

Add Technical Vocabulary to a Paragraph

Rewrite this paragraph using more precise, technical vocabulary. Replace the underlined words with more accurate scientific terms.

ORIGINAL: 'The sun heats the water and turns it into air stuff. The air stuff goes up and makes fluffy things in the sky. Then the water falls back down as rain.' MY REWRITE (use: evaporation, water vapour, condensation, precipitation):

Draw here
TipUsing precise vocabulary demonstrates deep understanding. It also makes writing clearer and more credible. Encourage your child to use a dictionary or glossary when editing.
64

Sort by Text Structure

Sort each feature into the correct category based on what it helps the reader do in an expository text.

Subheadings
Table of contents
Glossary
Bold key terms
Comparison table
Diagrams with labels
Index
Side-by-side examples
Navigating the text
Understanding vocabulary
Comparing information
TipExpository texts use a variety of features to make complex information accessible. Identifying these features helps students both read and write more effectively.
65

Design an Expository Subheading System

You are writing a three-section expository text about climate change. Write three subheadings and a one-sentence description of what each section will cover.

Subheading 1:

This section will cover:

Subheading 2:

This section will cover:

Subheading 3:

This section will cover:

69

Paraphrase the Evidence

Read each direct quote. Rewrite it as a paraphrase — using your own words to express the same information.

DIRECT QUOTE: 'Globally, approximately one million plant and animal species are now threatened with extinction, many within decades.' MY PARAPHRASE:

DIRECT QUOTE: 'Children aged 6–17 should engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity each day.' MY PARAPHRASE:

TipParaphrasing rather than copying is a fundamental academic skill. Students who can paraphrase accurately understand the content they are writing about, rather than just reproducing it.
70

Full Paragraph: Research-Based Writing

Using research notes you have made or information from a source your parent has helped you find, write a full expository paragraph on any topic from your curriculum. Include a cited source.

My research-based paragraph:

Draw here
TipHelp your child find one reliable website or book for their topic. Working with real sources — even at Year 5 — builds habits of evidence-based thinking that last a lifetime.
72

Peer Edit Checklist

Swap your three-paragraph text with a sibling, friend or parent. Use this checklist to provide feedback. Write one specific improvement suggestion.

CHECKLIST: ☐ Each paragraph has a clear topic sentence ☐ Each piece of evidence is specific and accurate ☐ Each piece of evidence is followed by an explanation ☐ Transition words are used accurately ☐ Each paragraph has a concluding statement ☐ The writing uses formal language (no contractions or slang) My improvement suggestion:

76

Rewrite in Formal Language

Rewrite this paragraph using formal language, removing contractions, slang and personal opinion.

ORIGINAL: 'I reckon that it's really important to look after our oceans. There's heaps of plastic in the water and it's making fish sick. I think people should stop using plastic bags because they're bad for the environment.' MY REWRITE:

Draw here
77

Match the Editing Strategy to the Problem

Match each editing strategy to the writing problem it solves.

Read the paragraph aloud
Check every 'I think' or 'I believe'
Underline every transition word
Read only the first and last sentence of each paragraph
Look up the spelling of any word you are unsure about
Replace personal opinion phrases with evidence-based statements
Verify the topic sentence and concluding statement are strong and related
Check that your ideas flow logically and that transitions are accurate
Correct any spelling errors that reduce the credibility of your writing
Identify sentences that sound awkward or do not flow naturally
TipSystematic editing is a sign of a mature writer. Teaching your child to edit in passes — one for structure, one for language, one for conventions — is more effective than trying to fix everything at once.
78

Put the Writing Process in Order

Number these steps in the expository writing process from 1 (first) to 6 (last).

?
Edit for language conventions — formal language, spelling, punctuation
?
Choose a topic and identify your main idea
?
Publish or present the final version
?
Research and take notes, recording your sources
?
Write the first draft using your plan
?
Plan the paragraph structure — topic sentence, evidence, explanation, conclusion
79

Write a Self-Reflection on Your Progress

Look back at the expository paragraphs you have written in this worksheet. Answer the reflection questions below.

Q1: What is one thing you have improved in your expository writing since starting this worksheet?

Q2: What is one area you would like to improve further?

Q3: Which activity challenged you the most? Why?

81

Extension: Write an Expository Introduction

Write an introduction paragraph for a three-paragraph expository text on one of these topics: the importance of the ocean, how animals adapt to their environments, or the benefits of music education. An introduction should hook the reader, introduce the topic and briefly outline what the text will cover.

My introduction paragraph:

Draw here
TipA strong introduction is one of the hardest things to write — it needs to be engaging AND informative. Encourage your child to draft two different openings and choose the stronger one.
83

Write a Conclusion Paragraph

Write a conclusion paragraph for the three-paragraph text you planned earlier. A conclusion should restate the main point, briefly summarise the key evidence and end with a thoughtful final statement.

My conclusion paragraph:

Draw here
TipA conclusion is not just a repeated introduction. It should synthesise — bring together — the ideas explored in the body paragraphs and give the reader a sense of completion.
85

Develop a Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is a specific, focused claim about a topic that guides an entire expository text. Write a thesis statement for each topic below.

TOPIC: Climate change THESIS STATEMENT:

TOPIC: The value of reading THESIS STATEMENT:

TOPIC: Ocean pollution THESIS STATEMENT:

TipA thesis statement is one of the most important skills in secondary school English and humanities. Starting at Year 5 gives your child a significant head start.
87

Write a Body Paragraph Supporting a Thesis

Use this thesis statement to write one body paragraph with a topic sentence, evidence, explanation and concluding statement. THESIS: Daily reading has a profound and lasting impact on children's academic success.

My body paragraph:

Draw here
88

Sort the Essay Components

Sort each component into the correct part of a five-paragraph expository essay.

Thesis statement
Hook — opening sentence to engage the reader
Overview of main points
Topic sentence supporting the thesis
Evidence and explanation
Linking sentence to next paragraph
Restatement of thesis
Summary of key evidence
Final thoughtful statement
Introduction
Body paragraph
Conclusion
TipUnderstanding essay structure at Year 5 prepares students for the analytical writing expected in secondary school. This is a genuine higher-order skill worth developing carefully.
89

Write a Full Five-Part Expository Essay Plan

Plan a five-paragraph expository essay on a topic from your curriculum. Complete all five parts of the plan.

Essay topic:

Thesis statement:

Body paragraph 1 topic sentence:

Body paragraph 2 topic sentence:

Body paragraph 3 topic sentence:

Conclusion — restatement of thesis:

TipPlanning a five-paragraph essay is an advanced Year 5 skill. If your child completes this confidently, celebrate — they are working at secondary school level.
91

Write Your Best Expository Paragraph

Write the best expository paragraph you can — this is your showcase piece. Choose a topic you know well, use strong evidence, careful explanation and polished language. Take your time.

My showcase paragraph:

Draw here
94

Respond to a Non-Fiction Article

Read a short non-fiction article with your parent. Write an expository paragraph that explains the main idea of the article and evaluates the quality of the evidence used.

Article title and source:

My response paragraph (include: main idea, key evidence, your evaluation):

Draw here
TipCritical reading of non-fiction is a sophisticated skill. After reading together, ask: What is the writer claiming? What evidence do they use? Is it strong evidence? Would you change anything about how the argument is structured?
95

Home Activity: Expository Writer in the Wild

This week, look for expository writing in real life. Choose one example and complete the activity.

  • 1Find an expository text in a magazine, encyclopedia, science textbook or news website.
  • 2Identify the topic sentence and the main evidence in the text.
  • 3Circle all the transition words you can find.
  • 4Write three sentences explaining what the text is about, what evidence it uses and how well you think it is structured.
  • 5Share your findings with a family member and discuss: Is this text well-structured? What would you improve?
96

Teach It Back

Explain expository writing to someone who has never heard of it — a younger sibling, a grandparent or an imaginary student. Use your own words and include an example.

My explanation (as if teaching someone else):

Draw here
TipTeaching back is the highest form of understanding. If a child can explain a concept in their own words, they own it. This activity also builds communication confidence.
98

Fix the Broken Paragraph

This paragraph has several problems — a weak topic sentence, vague evidence and no explanation. Rewrite it as a strong expository paragraph.

ORIGINAL: 'Water is really important. People use water a lot. Without water people would be bad. Lots of animals need water too. Water is good.' MY IMPROVED PARAGRAPH:

Draw here
99

Write a Complete Expository Text: Your Choice

Write a complete three-paragraph expository text on any topic from your curriculum. This is your final masterpiece for this worksheet. Use everything you have learned: strong topic sentences, specific evidence, clear explanations, varied transition words and a thoughtful conclusion.

My complete expository text:

Draw here
TipThis is the capstone activity. Do not rush it. Encourage your child to plan first (15 minutes), write (30 minutes) and edit (15 minutes). If they produce a well-structured three-paragraph text independently, that is an outstanding Year 5 achievement.