Crafting Clarity: How to Write an Informational Essay
A one-week learning journey where your child will gain valuable skills in writing informative essays, exploring topics, and refining their writing to create impressive final drafts.
Ellen Annas, M.Ed.
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(3)
What's included
5 live meetings
3 hrs 45 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
This is a dynamic five-day unit designed to empower students with the skills needed for proficient informational essay writing. Commencing with an introduction to the purpose and structure of informational essays, students will explore key components, including the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. The significance of planning and organization in essay writing will be underscored, paving the way for subsequent lessons. Day 2 focuses on selecting an appropriate topic and gathering relevant information. Through brainstorming sessions, students will learn to choose focused and manageable topics, followed by instruction on effective research methods and organizing gathered information using graphic organizers. On Day 3, students will delve into creating an outline as a crucial planning tool. They will identify main ideas, supporting details, and structure their outline using Roman numerals, letters, and numbers. This foundational skill prepares them for the upcoming stages of essay writing. Moving on to Day 4, students will learn the art of crafting an introductory paragraph and body paragraphs. Emphasis will be placed on writing a clear and engaging introduction, structuring body paragraphs with topic sentences and supporting evidence, and using transition words for coherence. Students will then be guided through drafting their essays using the outlined structure. Day 5 concludes the unit with a focus on revising and editing for clarity, coherence, and grammar. The assessment involves the submission of a final draft of the informational essay. Throughout the unit, various Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for Writing in grade 6 are addressed, ensuring alignment with educational standards. Culminating activities, including essay presentations, exhibitions, and publishing, provide students with opportunities to showcase their work and receive feedback. "Crafting Clarity" promises a comprehensive exploration of essay writing, encouraging students to refine their skills and communicate effectively through the written word.
Learning Goals
The learner goals for the "Crafting Clarity: How to Write an Informational Essay" unit are designed to guide students in acquiring key skills and knowledge related to informational essay writing. These goals align with the objectives outlined for each day of the unit. Here are the learner goals:
Understand the Purpose and Structure of Informational Essays:
Define and identify the characteristics of an informational essay.
Recognize the key components, including introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
Appreciate the importance of planning and organization in essay writing.
Selecting a Topic and Gathering Information:
Brainstorm potential essay topics.
Choose a focused and manageable topic for the informational essay.
Learn effective research methods to gather relevant information.
Organize information using graphic organizers.
Creating an Outline:
Understand the importance of outlining as a planning tool.
Identify main ideas and supporting details.
Structure an outline using Roman numerals, letters, and numbers.
Transfer information from graphic organizers to outline format.
Writing the Essay:
Write a clear and engaging introduction for the informational essay.
Structure body paragraphs with topic sentences and supporting evidence.
Use transition words to enhance coherence.
Draft the essay using the outline as a guide.
Revising and Editing:
Revise the essay for content, organization, and clarity.
Edit for grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
Implement peer review and self-editing strategies.
Produce a final draft of the informational essay.
Culminating Activities:
Develop presentation skills by presenting informational essays to the class.
Participate in an essay exhibition where peers provide feedback.
Create a class booklet or digital portfolio to showcase their work.
These learner goals aim to equip students with the skills necessary to effectively plan, research, outline, write, and revise informational essays, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the essay writing process.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Students will use Google Docs and Drive so will need access to a computer.
Supply List
Students will need a word document software (Word or Google Docs).
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Joined November, 2020
5.0
3reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
I am a veteran teacher with 5+ years of experience teaching writing at the middle and high school levels.Reviews
Live Group Class
$60
for 5 classes5x per week, 1 week
45 min
Completed by 13 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-13
3-10 learners per class
