Informational Writing — Answer Key
Part A: Fix the Sentence
Each sentence has an error. Rewrite it correctly on the line.
1. Fix the sentence:
In this report I am going to talk about why sleep is important.
Corrected: Getting enough sleep helps children stay focused and healthy.
Starting with "I am going to talk about" wastes words and does not teach the reader anything; jumping straight to the fact about sleep and health is stronger.
2. Fix the sentence:
Earthquakes are scary and bad and nobody likes them.
Corrected: Earthquakes are powerful natural events caused by shifting plates beneath the Earth's surface.
"Scary and bad" are opinions, not facts. Informational writing should use factual language, like explaining that earthquakes are caused by shifting plates beneath the Earth's surface.
3. Fix the sentence:
So yeah, that is pretty much everything about frogs.
Corrected: In conclusion, frogs are fascinating amphibians that play an important role in nature.
"So yeah, that is pretty much everything" sounds casual and vague. A strong concluding sentence restates the main idea clearly, like summarizing the importance of frogs in nature.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. The opening sentence of an informational paragraph should grab the reader's attention.
If the opening sentence grabs the reader's attention with an interesting fact or question, the reader will want to keep reading the rest of the paragraph.
2. A concluding sentence ends the paragraph by restating the main idea.
The concluding sentence ends the paragraph by wrapping up the main idea so the reader feels the topic has been fully covered.
3. The phrase "in summary" tells the reader that the writer is wrapping up the paragraph .
"In summary" is a signal phrase that lets the reader know the writer is about to wrap up the paragraph and restate the key point.
4. A good introduction names the topic the paragraph will explain.
Naming the topic right away in the introduction tells the reader exactly what the paragraph will explain, so they know what to expect.
Part C: Short Answer
Answer each question in one or two complete sentences.
1. Why should a writer avoid starting an informational paragraph with "I am going to tell you about"?
Sample answer: Starting with an announcement wastes words and does not give the reader useful information about the topic right away.
A good answer includes: Starting with an announcement wastes words and does not give the reader useful information about the topic right away.
2. What makes a concluding sentence different from a supporting detail?
Sample answer: A concluding sentence restates or summarizes the main idea, while a supporting detail gives new facts or examples about the topic.
A good answer includes: A concluding sentence restates or summarizes the main idea, while a supporting detail gives new facts or examples about the topic.