EXPLANATION TEXT

Explanation text is a text that contains the processes involved in natural and social phenomena, or to explain how something works. These texts answer the questions “how” or “why”. It is often found in science, geography, and history text books.

The elements of the explanation texts are :

1.     General statement

General statement which explains the processes involved in natural and social phenomena, or to explain how something works.

2.     Explanation

It’s explains how or why something occurs.

3.     Conclusion (optional)

Language Feature of explanation text :

1.     Focus on generic participant

Example : tree, chocolate, sun, rain, etc

2.     Using chronological connection

Example : to begin with, next, etc

3.     Using cause/effect relations

Example : as then, as a consequence, so, if, etc

4.     Using time relations

Example : first, then, following, finally, etc

5.     Using Adverbial Phrases

Example : especially know as, etc

6.     Using a logical relations

7.     Using Simple Present Tense

8.     Using Passive Voice

9.     Using Noun Phrases

10.   Using Action Verbs

How Earthquakes Happen

Earthquake is one of the most destroying natural disasters. Unluckily it often happens in several regions. It has brought great damages. Why did it occur? Do you know how an earthquake happens?

Earthquakes are usually caused when rock underground suddenly breaks along a fault. This sudden release of energy causes the seismic waves. It make the ground shake. When two blocks of rock or two plates are rubbing against each other, they stick a little. They don't just slide smoothly. The rocks are still pushing against each other, but not moving. After a while, the rocks break because of all the pressure that's built up. When the rocks break, the earthquake occurs.

During the earthquake and afterward, the plates or blocks of rock start moving, and they continue to move until they get stuck again. The spot underground where the rock breaks is called the focus of the earthquake. The place right above the focus is called the epicenter of the earthquake.