CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.11-12.2
The Standard
Write informative/explanatory texts, including the narration of historical events, scientific procedures/experiments, or technical processes.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts · Writing Standards for Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects 6—12
What This Standard Means
Students need to explain a topic, event, experiment, or process clearly for a reader who may not already understand it. They must use accurate facts, organized sections, precise vocabulary, transitions, and a formal style. In history, that may mean explaining causes and effects. In science, it may mean explaining a lab procedure and results.
Mastery looks like writing that is easy to follow, well sourced, and specific. Strong students connect details to the main idea instead of listing facts. Common trouble spots are vague topic sentences, weak transitions, dropped evidence, too much summary, and conclusions that repeat instead of clarifying why the information matters.
Ways to Teach It
- Give students a short primary source set and have them build a labeled cause-and-effect timeline before writing an explanation.
- Ask students to write: Explain how one decision, discovery, or step changed the outcome, using at least three specific details.
- Use a one-paragraph exit check: claim, two facts, one technical or academic term, and a closing sentence.
- Bring in a product manual, lab report, or museum panel and have students mark how it guides the reader through information.
Before This Standard
If students are struggling here, check these first.
Related Standards
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.4.2
Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.5.2
Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.6-8.2
Write informative/explanatory texts, including the narration of historical events, scientific procedures/experiments, or technical processes.
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