Explanation — English definition

Writing that clarifies how, why, or in what relationship something can be understood.

Where it is taught

Questions using explanation

Problem 1

Explain explanation in the assigned reading, distinguishing it from a related idea.
Answer and explanation

Writing that clarifies how, why, or in what relationship something can be understood. An explanatory response helps a reader understand a process, distinction, or relationship. State a controlling idea without making a recommendation unless the assignment requests one. Explain the topic accurately before trying to make the prose sound sophisticated.

Use the model to discuss reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; written work needs human marking.

Problem 2

Evaluate this claim: “An explanation must always persuade readers to adopt a policy.” Explain a correction in context.
Answer and explanation

This claim is misleading. Use precise definitions and evidence. Zero is a measured absence under the stated method; a closure is a condition; a missing entry provides no measured count. Give a concrete example of each. Do not blur these categories in a general sentence about low attendance. A recorded zero reports that the observed count was zero under a stated method. A scheduled closure explains why no ordinary session occurred. A missing entry means the record does not supply the count, so its value remains unknown. In Source B, Wednesday is closed and Friday is missing; the three observed days cannot be enlarged into a complete weekly total.

Use the model to discuss reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; written work needs human marking.

Problem 3

Explain explanation in your own words and give an example from the assigned reading or a fresh sentence.
Answer and explanation

Writing that clarifies how, why, or in what relationship something can be understood. The unit case offers this example to examine: A recorded zero reports that the observed count was zero under a stated method. A scheduled closure explains why no ordinary session occurred. A missing entry means the record does not supply the count, so its value remains unknown. In Source B, Wednesday is closed and Friday is missing; the three observed days cannot be enlarged into a complete weekly total. Identify the wording or choice that fits the term. A different accurate example is acceptable.

Use the model to discuss reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; written work needs human marking.

Problem 4

Correct the misleading statement “An explanation must always persuade readers to adopt a policy.” and explain a detail that makes your correction necessary.
Answer and explanation

An explanatory response helps a reader understand a process, distinction, or relationship. State a controlling idea without making a recommendation unless the assignment requests one. Explain the topic accurately before trying to make the prose sound sophisticated. A recorded zero reports that the observed count was zero under a stated method. A scheduled closure explains why no ordinary session occurred. A missing entry means the record does not supply the count, so its value remains unknown. In Source B, Wednesday is closed and Friday is missing; the three observed days cannot be enlarged into a complete weekly total.

Use the model to discuss reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; written work needs human marking.

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