Explanation Texts: Canals and Features
Year 4 English Understanding how explanation texts work Learning to identify key features
WALT - We Are Learning To
Identify key features of explanation texts Understand why these features are important Recognise present tense verbs and technical vocabulary Spot causal conjunctions (because, so, therefore)
Success Criteria
I can find and label features in an explanation text I can explain why each feature is important I can identify present tense verbs in context I can spot words that show cause and effect
What is an Explanation Text?
Think about texts that tell us HOW something works Or texts that explain WHY something happens What examples can you think of?
Key Features of Explanation Texts
Present Tense and Technical Vocabulary
Present tense: 'Water flows through the canal' Technical words: canal, lock, water level These words are special to the topic They help us explain things accurately
Group Activity: Find the Features!
Work in groups of 5 Use your canal explanation text Label the features with colored cards Use sentence starters to help explain
What Have We Learned?
Explanation texts have special features Titles, introductions, and subheadings organize information Present tense verbs describe facts Technical vocabulary gives precise meaning Causal conjunctions show cause and effect