What You Need to Know

Key Concept Diagram

An information report has a title, general statement (introduction), organised facts in paragraphs, and a conclusion

Technical vocabulary specific to the topic makes reports accurate and credible

Facts are presented objectively using third person (it, they) without personal opinion

Subheadings, diagrams, and captions help readers locate and understand information

Key Vocabulary

Information report

A factual text that describes or explains how things are in the world

Objective

Based on facts, not influenced by personal feelings or opinions

Technical vocabulary

Specialist words related to a particular subject, e.g. photosynthesis in science

Subheading

A smaller heading within a text that signals the topic of a new section

Knowledge Check

Select the correct answer for each question. Click "Check Answer" to see if you are right.

Question 1

Which sentence is written in objective, report-style language?

I think sharks are really scary. Sharks are fascinating, aren't they? Great white sharks can grow up to 6 metres in length. You should learn about sharks.

Question 2

Where would you MOST likely find a subheading in a report?

In the middle of a sentence In speech marks as a quoted statement At the very end of the report as a summary At the start of a new section to signal the topic

Question 3

A student writes a report about dolphins and includes: "I love dolphins and think everyone should too." What is wrong with this sentence?

It is an opinion, not a fact — not suitable for a report It uses the wrong tense Nothing — it adds personality It is too short

Writing Information Reports