STAAR
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Purpose to inform
Organization is straight forward
Introduction paragraph, with broad and
distinct main idea, followed by supporting
details
Information presented sequentially
Subgenres: informational essay, “how-to”,
compare/contrast, response to literature
Focus will be on one topic
1. Introduction paragraph-grabs reader (lead)
and tells reader what the entire piece is about
with a (topic sentence).
 2. Body of the piece-Number of paragraphs with
one distinct main idea with supporting details.
The key is for author to write as many
paragraphs needed to fully develop the topic.
 3. Conclusion Paragraph-reiterates the main
idea, topic sentence in a general way. May be
done straight forward or implied.
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TOPIC:_________________
Main Idea #1 _______________
Main Idea #2 _______________
Main Idea #3 _______________
When referring to this genre always use the
word PIECE. Story suggests characters and
setting.
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Prewriting planner/summarizing framework
EX: TOPIC: The Rain Forest
Main Idea #1: Climate/Weather
Main Idea #2: Plants/Trees
Main Idea #3: Animals
Main Idea #4: Deforestation
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1. Number each paragraph
2. Circle the introduction
3. Box the conclusion
4. Circle the title/topic
5. Underline the lead (question) in red.
6. Underline the topic sentence (what the
piece is about) in blue.
7. Underline each Main Idea. Write a blurb
on the side. One to two words.
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8. Review the Main Ideas
9. Review the Details
10. Number the references to each
11. Fill in a summarizing framework
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1. Arranged top to bottom
2. Provides a logical structure
3. Intro and conclusion are the broadest
4. Main Ideas are supported by details
5. Details are specific