Unit Plan 12 (Grade 3 ELA): Writing to Inform – Descriptive Paragraphs
Grade 3 ELA weeklong unit: students write informative paragraphs using sensory details and linking words, with strong topic sentences and clear wrap-ups.
Grade Level: 3
Subject Area: English Language Arts (Reading, Writing, Speaking & Listening, Language)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 45–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
This week develops informative writing through descriptive paragraphs that teach readers about a person, place, object, or event using sensory language and precise vocabulary. Students plan with a focused topic sentence, choose relevant facts and observations, connect ideas with linking words, and close with a clear wrap-up. They strengthen word choice by exploring figurative language and shades of meaning and by using new academic/domain words correctly. By Friday, students publish a polished paragraph that explains or describes a topic clearly and vividly.
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to…
- Write a topic sentence that introduces what their paragraph will explain or describe.
- Develop the topic with facts, definitions, and sensory details that are relevant and organized.
- Use linking words/phrases (for example, also, because, in addition, finally) to connect ideas.
- Provide a concluding statement that reinforces the main point.
- Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances (e.g., shades of meaning) and use new vocabulary accurately.
Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 3
- Writing: W.3.2a–d (introduce topic; develop with facts/details; use linking words; provide conclusion)
- Language: L.3.5 (figurative language; word relationships; nuances)
- Language: L.3.6 (acquire/use grade-appropriate vocabulary)
Success Criteria — student language
- I start with a clear topic sentence.
- My details are true, relevant, and help the reader see, hear, smell, taste, or feel the topic.
- I use at least three linking words to connect my sentences.
- I end with a wrap-up that restates the main idea in new words.
- I choose precise words (and one simple figurative phrase, if helpful) to make meaning clear.