Information Reports
Learn how to write clear, well-organised information reports that present facts about a topic in a logical way.
What is an Information Report?
An information report is a type of text that presents facts about a topic. Unlike a narrative (which tells a story) or a persuasive text (which gives opinions), an information report is factual and objective — it does not include the writer's personal feelings.
Factual
Based on real information and evidence, not opinions.
Organised
Information is grouped under clear headings and subheadings.
Present Tense
Uses present tense because it describes things as they are.
Structure of an Information Report
Every information report follows this structure:
Title
Tells the reader clearly what the report is about. E.g. "The Platypus" or "Volcanoes".
Opening Statement / Classification
A general introduction that classifies or defines the topic. E.g. "The platypus is a unique Australian mammal found in freshwater rivers and streams."
Body Paragraphs
Each paragraph covers a different aspect of the topic, grouped under a subheading. E.g. Appearance, Habitat, Diet, Behaviour.
Concluding Statement
A summary that rounds off the report with an interesting final fact or general statement.
Language Features
Information reports use specific language features to sound formal and factual:
Third Person
Uses "it", "they", "the platypus" — never "I" or "you".
Present Tense
"Platypuses live in burrows" (not "lived").
Technical Vocabulary
Subject-specific words like "mammal", "habitat", "nocturnal".
Formal Tone
No slang, jokes, or personal opinions. Stick to facts.
Key Vocabulary
Information Report
A factual text that describes and classifies a topic using organised paragraphs.
Classification
A general statement that defines or categorises the topic at the start of the report.
Subheading
A smaller heading within the report that introduces a new section or aspect of the topic.
Technical Vocabulary
Specialist words related to the topic that show expert knowledge.
Worked Examples
See how information reports are structured and written.
Example 1: Opening Statement
Topic: The Platypus
Opening: "The platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) is a semi-aquatic mammal native to eastern Australia. It is one of only five species of monotremes — mammals that lay eggs."
This classifies the platypus (mammal, monotreme) and tells us where it lives.
Example 2: Identifying Formal vs Informal Language
Informal (wrong): "Platypuses are super cool and really weird-looking!"
Formal (correct): "The platypus has a distinctive appearance, with a duck-like bill, webbed feet, and a flat tail similar to a beaver's."
Information reports should use formal, factual language without personal opinions or slang.
Example 3: Organising with Subheadings
A report about the platypus could be organised under these subheadings:
- • Appearance — What does it look like?
- • Habitat — Where does it live?
- • Diet — What does it eat?
- • Reproduction — How does it reproduce?
- • Conservation — Is it endangered?
Knowledge Check
Test your understanding of information reports. Select the correct answer and click "Check Answer".
Question 1
What tense is mainly used in an information report?
Question 2
Which sentence would NOT belong in an information report?
Question 3
What is the purpose of the opening statement in an information report?
Question 4
Why are subheadings used in information reports?
Question 5
Which word is an example of technical vocabulary you might find in a report about volcanoes?
Key Concepts Summary
- ● An information report presents facts about a topic in a clear, organised way.
- ● The structure includes a title, opening statement, body paragraphs with subheadings, and a concluding statement.
- ● Use present tense, third person, technical vocabulary, and a formal tone.
- ● Never include personal opinions — keep it factual and objective.
- ● Subheadings help organise information into clear sections for the reader.