It is time to write the first draft of your explanation using the Planning an Explanation worksheet as your guide.

1. Begin by writing your three explaining paragraphs.
2. Write the introductory paragraph - what question are you asking?
3. Write a concluding paragraph - pulls together all your ideas so that you have answered your question.
4. Write a rough draft.  When it is finished, consider layout. (Where will you put the information? Where will you place the images?)
• Remember to use any images, graphs or diagrams to add information to your explanation. Do not put them in just to make it "look pretty".
5. After you finish writing your first draft of your article and reach the revision stage, you will complete a peer edit with a parent, sibling, or friend to receive feedback on how to improve your ideas and add specific details.
   
   Use the document Peer Edit as a checklist to ensure you have checked over your document for errors in these areas. You will be using the list to make sure you have included all necessary information and then complete another revision of your work.

Presentation Pointers

When you are finished peer edit and have revised your draft, remember to consider the Presentation Pointers on Page 153 page of Literacy in Action 5A. You must now take the time to think about the presentation elements you have used in your article and consider ways to improve the design and engage the reader's interest.

Click each coloured tab for information about the activities.