Word family
| Base / Form | Related |
|---|---|
| EXPLAIN | EXPLAINS |
| EXPLAIN | explained |
| EXPLAIN | EXPLAINING |
| explanation | noun |
| explanatory | adjective |
Morphology
From the prefix 'ex-' (out) + 'plain' (flat, clear); literally to make flat or clear.
Word origin
Latin 'explanare', to make level or clear.
Etymology
Originally described making something smooth or easy to understand; over time it came to mean making ideas clear.
Exit ticket
EXPLAIN why the character was nervous before speaking to the audience. Include one detail from the text as evidence.
Expert vs. novice
| Novice | Expert |
|---|---|
| Gives the answer. | EXPLAINS the reasoning behind the answer. |
| Lists evidence. | Connects evidence to ideas. |
| Stops after one sentence. | Elaborates with meaningful details. |
| Uses vague language. | Uses precise academic language. |
Strong example
The character was nervous because he had never spoken to such a large audience; the text describes his shaking hands, which EXPLAINS his lack of confidence.
Weak example
He was nervous because the situation was difficult, which vaguely EXPLAINS his feelings.
Non-example
Saying, "He was sad," does not EXPLAIN why he felt sad or provide …
The final words are cut off in the App Store preview image; shown here exactly as visible.
