Report Writing
Learn to write clear, well-organised informational and scientific reports using formal language and evidence.
Types of Reports
A report is a non-fiction text that presents factual information about a topic in an organised way. There are two main types you will encounter in Year 6:
Information Report
Describes a topic in general (e.g., a country, animal, or event). It classifies and organises information logically.
Example: "The Great Barrier Reef" or "Endangered Animals of Australia"
Scientific Report
Records what happened during an experiment or investigation. It follows a specific format with aim, method, results, and conclusion.
Example: "Does the colour of light affect plant growth?"
Information Report Structure
An information report follows a clear, logical structure with headings and subheadings to guide the reader:
Title
A clear, specific heading that names the topic.
Introduction / Classification
A general statement introducing and classifying the topic.
Body Paragraphs (with subheadings)
Each paragraph covers a different aspect of the topic, organised under subheadings.
Conclusion / Summary
A closing statement that summarises the key information or states why the topic matters.
Language Features of Reports
Reports use formal, impersonal language. They are written to inform, not to entertain or persuade.
Present tense
For general facts: "Koalas live in eucalyptus forests."
Third person
No "I" or "you": "The platypus is a unique mammal."
Technical vocabulary
Subject-specific words: "habitat," "species," "photosynthesis"
Factual, objective tone
No personal opinions or emotive language. Stick to the facts.
Key Vocabulary
Classification
Grouping or categorising the topic (e.g., "The wombat is a marsupial mammal").
Subheading
A smaller heading within the report that organises information into sections.
Objective
Based on facts, not personal feelings or opinions.
Technical vocabulary
Specialised words related to the subject being discussed.
Worked Examples
Example 1: Information Report Opening
The Platypus
"The platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) is a semi-aquatic mammal native to eastern Australia. It is one of only five species of monotreme, meaning it is a mammal that lays eggs."Why it works: Classifies the subject (semi-aquatic mammal, monotreme), uses technical vocabulary, present tense, and third person.
Example 2: Body Paragraph with Subheading
Diet
"Platypuses are carnivores that feed on insects, larvae, and small crustaceans found on the riverbed. They use their sensitive bill to detect the electrical signals produced by their prey."Why it works: Clear subheading, factual content, technical terms (carnivores, larvae, crustaceans), and no personal opinion.
Example 3: Scientific Report Conclusion
Conclusion
"The results show that plants exposed to red and blue light grew taller than those kept in green light or darkness. This supports the hypothesis that light colour affects plant growth."Why it works: Refers back to the results, connects to the hypothesis, and is written in an objective, formal tone.
Knowledge Check
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Key Concepts Summary
- ●Reports present factual information in an organised, logical structure with headings and subheadings.
- ●Use present tense, third person, technical vocabulary, and a formal, objective tone.
- ●Information reports describe a topic; scientific reports record experiments (aim, method, results, conclusion).
- ●Avoid personal opinions, slang, and emotive language in reports.