Explanation Writing

Hi, in class we have been learning how to write an explanation. We learnt the structure of an explanation when we wrote as about the Aurora Australis, that explanation was guided. For our assembly showcase we are writing an independent explanation and creating a visual presentation to go with it. For our writing assessment we are also doing an explanation, but that one will be about global warming. Now I'm in the progress of getting my facts for the space theme for my showcase. I am writing it on 'How do solar systems form?'. It is very interesting so far, I am learning a heap! Below is my published Aurora Australis explanation. Have a read.

Aurora Australis

What causes the Aurora Australis? Have you ever witnessed nature's light show dancing across the night sky? This colourful display is often referred to or known as the Southern Lights.

The first thing that creates an Aurora is a solar flare, a solar flare is an ejected cloud of ions, electrons and atoms from the sun. Since the sun is always active it has solar flares frequently.

The solar flares flow past Earth and they get trapped in Earth's magnetic field. Earth’s magnetic field is like an invisible shield that protects us from particles that may be harmful to humans. From the way our magnetic field is shaped they get directed to the North and South poles.

While the solar flare is passing through the magnetic field it it starts to gain speed. When it's in Earth's atmosphere it is accelerating very fast and collides with other particles that are already in our atmosphere. They then release energy in the form of light.

Each Aurora is different, that's because of the ions in the flare. The ions move responding to the particles in our atmosphere. That's why Aurorae are still rare to see. The colour of the Aurorae depends on how many ions is in the solar flare. The most common aurorae colour is green. An Aurora normally lasts for several hours on cold winter nights. Some people claim to hear noises when they witness the Aurora.

If you would like to see my planning click Here. If you would like to see my solar system explanation click Here. If you would like to see my argumentative writing click Here.