Informative/explanatory article

I’m working on a law report and need a reference to help me understand better.

Lesson Summary

Time to Write

In the previous lessons, you refined the skills you need for writing an informative/explanatory article.

Read a complete sample of an informative/expository article.

To prepare for writing your informative/explanatory article, you have:

• completed your research
• identified credible sources
• created an annotated bibliography
• created an outline
• learned how to write specifically using domain-specific and precise language, fluid sentences, and transitions

Now, it’s time to write your first draft.

© Jose Luis Pelaez Inc / Blend / Learning Pictures
/ Universal Images Group/Image Quest 2013

Gather your pre-writing notes and start writing! Remember, you have previously completed the following documents to support you as you write:

• Annotated bibliography
• Outline Planning Guide
• Tools for Informative/Explanatory Writing Notes

Step 1:

Write a complete draft of at least 500 words. Your draft should include:

• introduction with a hook (include a simile or metaphor)
• body paragraph 1—history, amendment, and advocate quote
• body paragraph 2—landmark court case and at least one quotation
• body paragraph 3—contemporary court cases and at least one quotation
• conclusion
• MLA in-text citations for
  • advocate quote
  • landmark court case
  • contemporary court cases
• transitions
• domain-specific vocabulary

Remember, you may use online resources to help create citations, such as EasyBib or Son of Citation Machine.

Step 2:

Highlight all transition words in yellow.
Highlight all domain-specific language in green.
Highlight any metaphors or similes in pink.

In this assessment, your first draft will be graded with the Writing Your Informative/Explanatory Article rubric. This rubric will check for the content of your draft as well as the organization of your writing. Check the rubric to verify the requirements for your informative/explanatory article.