This Year 3 writing unit from our Real Writing collection is built around an original model text by published children’s author Jo Franklin. Pupils will explore an explanation text that describes how magnets are used in everyday objects.
All texts in the Real Writing series are written by published children’s authors, and each unit follows a carefully mapped framework, complete with two to three weeks of detailed lesson planning to support classroom delivery.
Curriculum links
This unit explicitly addresses Year 3 writing objectives, including:
- using dictionaries and thesauruses to explore word meanings
- identifying and writing different sentence types
- creating expanded noun phrases
- applying subordination
- using adverbs
- writing with conjunctions to show time or place
- correct use of past and present tense
- commas for lists
Pupils will encounter Tier 2 vocabulary (e.g., consequently, interpret, microscopic, credit card) and Tier 3 vocabulary (e.g., magnet, magnetic, magnetism, attract, repel, pole, iron, nickel), alongside statutory Year 3/4 spelling words (opposite, separate, strength, different, enough, important, possible).
The unit links closely with the science curriculum, particularly the study of magnetism.
Resources
Teachers receive:
- Model text in PDF (plain, illustrated, annotated)
- Annotated and non-annotated PowerPoint presentations
- Activity sheets for vocabulary, grammar and writing tasks
- Word cards for Tier 2 and Tier 3 vocabulary
- Report margin planners and instruction sheets
Key teaching activities
The unit begins with a hook activity in which pupils explore magnets in the classroom and discuss magnetic items at home. Pupils will then read the model text, identifying its features and analysing verb tense, noun phrases, adverbs, conjunctions and headings.
Introduce vocabulary activities using word cards and matching exercises to reinforce meanings. Pupils will write a brief set of instructions for testing magnetism, using imperative verbs, adverbials for sequencing and questions in the second person.
The unit scaffolds writing from planning and drafting to producing a full explanatory leaflet on the practical uses of magnets. Pupils receive regular opportunities to proofread, edit and refine grammar, punctuation and vocabulary.
Outcomes
By the end of this unit, pupils will be able to:
- Identify and use the key features of explanation texts
- Apply subject-specific vocabulary accurately
- Write structured explanatory leaflets about magnets
- Use grammar, punctuation and spelling independently
- Link English writing skills to science content on magnetism
This unit enables pupils to write clearly and confidently while consolidating essential Year 3 curriculum skills across English and science.