Information and explanation texts · Year 2

Information texts give facts clearly. A report describes a subject (Owls are birds of prey.); an explanation tells how or why something happens (We have day and night because the Earth spins.); instructions tell you how to do something (Fill the kettle with water.); a recount tells what happened.

Key facts

  • Reports: a title, an opening that says what the subject is, paragraphs with subheadings, facts in the present tense, technical words, and often pictures with captions.
  • Explanations: steps in order and cause-and-effect words: because, so, as a result, therefore, this is why.
  • Instructions: a goal, a list of what you need, numbered steps in order, commands (Cut, Fold, Mix) and time words (first, next, then, finally).
  • Recounts: events in the order they happened, in the past tense, with time words: Last Tuesday, our class visited the museum.
  • Information texts are clear and factual: no opinions, the third person (they, it), and a subheading that tells you what each part is about.

Worked examples

Example 1

What type of text is it? A rainbow forms when sunlight passes through raindrops. The light bends and splits into colours.

Answer: an explanation

Example 2

Choose a subheading: Hedgehogs eat beetles, worms and slugs.

Answer: What do hedgehogs eat?

Example 3

Write it as an instruction: You need to wash your hands.

Answer: Wash your hands.

Other years