Explanation texts tell us how or why something happens, such as how volcanoes erupt or why bees dance. They often use time order (first, next, finally) and cause-and-effect words (because, so, as a result, this causes).
Writers use technical vocabulary and then explain it: “Melted rock underground is called magma.” They may also use comparisons to help us understand, like comparing gas in magma to the fizz in a shaken bottle.
When you answer questions, look for the cause (why) and the effect (what happens because of it).
Worked example
Read: “When pressure becomes too great, magma bursts through the crust.” What is the cause and what is the effect?
- Cause: the pressure becomes too great.
- Effect: magma bursts through the crust.
Answer:The pressure causes the magma to burst out.
Key words
- cause
- why something happens
- effect
- what happens as a result
- technical vocabulary
- special words for a subject
New questions every time.
Common Core-referenced: RI.4.3, RI.4.5