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Instruction texts and explanation texts are both taught in the Cambridge Checkpoint curriculum. While the purpose of these types of writing may seem similar, there are some key differences that should be understood to successfully write them.
The way both text types are set out is the first clear difference. Instruction texts are set out in two parts: 'What you need' and 'What to do'. They are likely to have numbers or bullet points and sentences mainly beginning with imperative verbs. Explanation texts, on the other hand, are set out in a series of paragraphs explaining a process.
The problem is some students get confused and write content in an explanation text that is actually an instruction or the other way around.
Also, explanation texts and instruction texts can be confusing to a student because both often begin with the word 'How' in the heading.
For example:
How an engine works (explanation)
How to make a chocolate cookie (instruction)
Instruction texts are written to provide clear instructions on how to complete a specific task. They are typically written in a step-by-step way and are designed to be easy to follow.
For example: Instructions texts will show you how to make something, such as a dog house.
Explanation texts, on the other hand, are written to explain how or why something happens, works etc. They are written to provide a detailed, logical description of the topic at hand. These texts will include facts and supporting evidence.
For example: Explanation texts will describe the stages in a process, such as the water cycle or how an engine works.
In other words, instruction texts are written to provide clear instructions on how to complete a task, while explanation texts are written to provide an explanation of how or why something happens, works etc.
It is important to understand the difference between these two types of writing. Knowing the purpose of each type of writing can help ensure that your writing is effective and engaging for the reader.
The way both text types are set out is the first clear difference. Instruction texts are set out in two parts: 'What you need' and 'What to do'. They are likely to have numbers or bullet points and sentences mainly beginning with imperative verbs. Explanation texts, on the other hand, are set out in a series of paragraphs explaining a process.
The problem is some students get confused and write content in an explanation text that is actually an instruction or the other way around.
Also, explanation texts and instruction texts can be confusing to a student because both often begin with the word 'How' in the heading.
For example:
How an engine works (explanation)
How to make a chocolate cookie (instruction)
Instruction texts are written to provide clear instructions on how to complete a specific task. They are typically written in a step-by-step way and are designed to be easy to follow.
For example: Instructions texts will show you how to make something, such as a dog house.
Explanation texts, on the other hand, are written to explain how or why something happens, works etc. They are written to provide a detailed, logical description of the topic at hand. These texts will include facts and supporting evidence.
For example: Explanation texts will describe the stages in a process, such as the water cycle or how an engine works.
In other words, instruction texts are written to provide clear instructions on how to complete a task, while explanation texts are written to provide an explanation of how or why something happens, works etc.
It is important to understand the difference between these two types of writing. Knowing the purpose of each type of writing can help ensure that your writing is effective and engaging for the reader.