Informative Writing: A Guide for Grade 7
Step 1: What is Informative Writing?
Informative Writing aims to educate the reader about a specific topic. It presents facts, data,
and explanation without including the writer's opinions or emotions. The goal is to provide clear
and concise information to enhance the reader's understanding of the subject.
Step 2: Essay Structure
A typical structure for an informative essay includes:
1. Introduction
o Introduce the topic.
o Provide some background information.
o Present a clear thesis statement that outlines what the reader will learn.
2. Body Paragraphs
o Each paragraph should focus on a single aspect or point related to the topic.
o Include evidence, facts, and examples to support each point.
o Use transitions between paragraphs to maintain flow.
3. Conclusion
o Summarize the main points discussed.
o Restate the importance of the topic.
o Encourage further thought or investigation.
Step 3: Criteria for Informative Writing
When writing an informative essay, consider the following criteria:
• Clarity: Make sure your writing is straightforward and easy to understand.
• Accuracy: Provide accurate information and check facts.
• Organization: Ensure that the essay is logically structured with clear progression from
one point to the next.
• Detail: Provide enough supporting details, examples, and facts to enrich the reader’s
knowledge.
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Step 4: Key Features of an Informative Essay
• Thesis Statement: This clearly conveys the main idea of the essay.
• Detailed Evidence: More than just basic facts; the use of statistics, quotes, and examples
provides depth.
• Transitions: Effective use of transition words and phrases connects ideas smoothly.
• Conclusion: A restatement of the main points and the significance of the topic.
Sample Essay
Topic: The Importance of Recycling
Introduction
Recycling is a crucial practice that helps conserve natural resources, reduce waste, and protect
the environment. As more waste is produced each year, understanding the benefits of recycling
becomes essential. This essay will explore how recycling works, the environmental advantages it
offers, and ways to improve recycling efforts in our communities.
Body Paragraphs
1. How Recycling Works
Recycling involves collecting waste materials and processing them to create new
products. For example, paper recycling starts with the collection of used paper products,
which are then sent to recycling facilities. At these facilities, the paper is sorted, cleaned,
and turned into pulp. This pulp can be used to make new paper, thereby saving trees and
reducing landfill waste.
2. Environmental Advantages of Recycling
One of the primary benefits of recycling is its positive impact on the environment.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), recycling and composting
prevented the release of approximately 186 million metric tons of carbon dioxide
equivalent into the air in just one year. This reduction in greenhouse gas emissions is
essential for combating climate change. Additionally, recycling conserves natural
resources, such as timber, water, and minerals, which are vital for producing new
materials.
3. Improving Recycling Efforts
To enhance recycling in communities, education and awareness are key. Many people do
not fully understand what can be recycled, leading to contamination of recycling bins.
Schools, local governments, and community organizations can help by providing clear
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information on recycling guidelines. For example, campaigns like "Recycle Right" aim to
teach citizens which materials are recyclable and how to prepare them for recycling.
Conclusion
In conclusion, recycling plays a vital role in protecting the environment, conserving resources,
and reducing waste. By understanding how recycling works, recognizing its benefits, and
improving local efforts, individuals can contribute to a healthier planet. As more communities
commit to recycling, they can help create a more sustainable future for generations to come.
Key Features Highlighted:
• Thesis Statement: "This essay will explore how recycling works, the environmental
advantages it offers, and ways to improve recycling efforts in our communities."
• Detailed Evidence:
o Example of How Recycling Works: "For example, paper recycling starts with
the collection of used paper products, which are then sent to recycling facilities."
o Statistical Evidence: "According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),
recycling and composting prevented the release of approximately 186 million
metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent into the air in just one year."
• Transitions: Phrases like "One of the primary benefits of recycling" and "To enhance
recycling in communities" connect ideas smoothly, guiding the reader through the essay.
• Conclusion Summary: The conclusion restates the main points and emphasizes the
importance of recycling: "In conclusion, recycling plays a vital role in protecting the
environment, conserving resources, and reducing waste."
Rubric: /10 Points
Essay Conent 3 points
Vocabulary & Word Structure 2 points
Structure of the text 3 points
Grammar & Punctuatio 2 points
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Rubric Explaination
1. Essay Content (3 points)
• What It Means: This category evaluates the relevance and depth of the ideas presented
in the essay. It looks at how well the essay addresses the topic, the quality of the
arguments or points made, and the overall clarity and insightfulness of the content.
• Criteria:
o Does the essay stay on topic?
o Are the main ideas clear and well-supported with examples?
o Does the essay provide enough detail to fully explain the comparisons and
contrasts?
2. Vocabulary & Word Structure (2 points)
• What It Means: This category assesses the use and variety of vocabulary and how well
words are structured within sentences. It considers the appropriateness of word choices
and whether varied language enhances the essay.
• Criteria:
o Is the vocabulary used appropriate for the grade level?
o Are there varied word choices, or does the essay rely on repetition?
o Is the phrasing clear and effective in conveying meaning?
3. Structure of the Text (3 points)
• What It Means: This category evaluates the organization and layout of the essay,
including the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. A well-structured essay
logically flows from one idea to the next.
• Criteria:
o Is there a clear introduction with a thesis statement?
o Are the body paragraphs organized logically, either point-by-point or by block
method?
o Does the conclusion summarize the main points effectively?
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4. Grammar & Punctuation (2 points)
• What It Means: This category assesses the accuracy of grammar, sentence structure, and
punctuation used throughout the essay. Proper grammar and punctuation are essential for
clarity and professionalism in writing.
• Criteria:
o Are there minimal grammar errors?
o Are sentences structured correctly?
o Is punctuation used correctly to enhance readability?
