CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.9-10.2
The Standard
Write informative/explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas, concepts, and information clearly and accurately through the effective selection, organization, and analysis of content.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts · Writing Standards
What This Standard Means
Students need to explain a complex topic clearly, not argue a side or tell a story. They must choose useful facts, examples, definitions, quotations, and details, then organize them so a reader can follow the idea from start to finish.
Mastery looks like a focused introduction, logical sections, accurate information, smooth transitions, and analysis that explains why the evidence matters. Students often get stuck by listing facts without explaining them, choosing a topic that is too broad, or using sources without sorting what is most relevant.
Ways to Teach It
- Give pairs a messy packet of facts on sleep and learning, then have them sort details into labeled sections for an explanatory outline.
- Ask students to write: What is one misunderstood concept from this unit, and how would you explain it to a younger student?
- Have students highlight one paragraph in three colors: claim or topic sentence, evidence, and explanation of evidence.
- Bring in a clear explainer article from a news site, then have students label how the writer organizes the information.
Before This Standard
If students are struggling here, check these first.
Plan a Lesson for CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.9-10.2
Generate a complete lesson plan aligned to this standard, with objectives, activities, and materials. Free, no account needed.
What This Unlocks
Mastery here sets students up for these next.
Related Standards
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.W.2
Write informative/explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas and information clearly and accurately through the effective selection, organization, an...
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.6.2
Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant...