Writing Frames

Writing frames such as the Explanation Planner and the descriptive or Expository Paragraph can be used to teach the organization patter required for a certain type of writing. Many students will use the frame a few times before they extent its use and personalize the writing. Struggling students may use the frame for a much longer time.

Explanation Planner:

• Planning sheet that students use after an experiment or activity to help them organize the steps in making or explaining something.
• What is needed to complete the activity
• The steps in completing the activity
• A signal or transition word with each step
• The introductory sentence after the steps are completed
• The concluding sentence as the last step

Descriptive or Expository Paragraph Frame

teaches students the three parts of the paragraph (introduction, body, and conclusion). It also helps them learn to develop the body of the paragraph through further generalizations and details. This frame requires students to write a paragraph with three supporting details. For each supporting detail, students will write

• A sentence that begins with a  transition and names the detail
• A follow up sentence or generalization about his

In the Classroom:

• Writing papers/essays

ELA Curricular Outcomes:

• Create and follow a plan (3.1.4)
• Organize Information (3.3.1)