Explanation
Purpose: An explanation is used to tell how or why something happens
Structure: The three parts of an explanation are:
1. A general statement which describes or identifies the phenomenon
2. A series of statements that tell how or why the feature or process changes. Words should show cause and effect.
3. A conclusion/application sums up the explanation and talks about its applications; may also give examples
When should an explanation be used?
An explanation should be used to explain a process set out in stages, rather than describing a “thing”. For instance how things work, and how or why things have come to be the way they are.
Examples:
memos, rules (i.e., playing a game), timetables (i.e., bus or train), explanations (how an email works or how a tap works), affidavits, complaints and policy statements
SCAFFOLD
Classification and/or generalisation
This might be the heading, a definition of the topic or maybe in the form of a question beginning with how or why.
Description
This consists of statements or paragraphs that describe the how or the why. It is sequenced in a specific way that describes the process. It demonstrates the link between cause and effect. Pictures or diagrams may be used.
Concluding/Summarising
This is a paragraph or statement that summarises what has been discussed in the description that ties all of the information together. This may include an impersonal and evaluative comment about the process.
Language Features
Nouns and pronouns are used to describe a participant in the process.
Timeless present tense, e.g., are, have, exists, and grows.
Action verbs e.g., run, hunts, erupts, breaks, flows, and changes.
Adjectives that are factual and precise such as, “5.6 megabytes”, sandy coloured.
Linking words and phrases expressing sequence (after...; then...; next...; finally)
Technical terms and subject-specific words should be used where possible.
Written in passive voice (e.g., is made. is placed). Using first-person pronouns are not appropriate. The writer’s opinions are not generally appropriate.