lesson
Make the causal links visible
1 · Learn
An explanation answers how or why. Organise stages logically and connect causes to consequences. Instructions tell someone what to do; an explanation tells them how a process works, though a text can combine both for a clear purpose.
Define necessary technical vocabulary and avoid circular explanations such as 'it floats because it is floaty'. Use diagrams or examples when they reveal a relationship that prose alone makes difficult.
2 · Worked example
I distinguish 'Press the switch' from 'Closing the switch completes the circuit, allowing current to flow in this simple model.' The second explains a relationship.
3 · Your turn
Why is 'The alarm rings because it makes a ringing sound' not a useful explanation?
Check your answer
It repeats the outcome rather than explaining the mechanism or cause.
4 · Apply your learning
Write a short explanation of an approved familiar process, then ask a reader to identify any missing causal step.
Adult guidance and safety
Discuss interpretations using the words actually supplied. Give feedback on complete drafts and spoken contributions. These original short models must be accompanied by sustained whole-text study and a diverse reading programme; they do not fulfil author-in-depth or Shakespeare requirements by themselves.
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