Fact Finder Writing Checklist
Fact Finder Writing Checklist
Grade 5 Informational
Use this checklist to plan, draft, and refine your informational article or report.
Name:
Date:
Topic:
Writing Prompt / Focus Question:
Text Format: Article Report Essay
Review Instructions: Check each item during drafting & peer review.
S Self Check P Peer Check
1
Introduction & Focus
CCSS.W.5.2.A
Engaging Hook: Captured curiosity with a surprising fact, question, definition, or short scenario.
Topic Overview: Provided essential background information so the reader understands the subject.
Central Idea / Thesis: Stated a clear focus statement previewing the subtopics of the entire piece.
2
Body Paragraph Anatomy
5-Sentence Formula
Blueprint: Topic Sentence ➜ 3 Supports ➜ Concluding Sentence
1. Good Topic Sentence: Clearly names the subtopic and states what the paragraph will explain or prove.
2. Support #1 (Verifiable Fact): Shares an accurate fact, statistic, or date from credible research sources.
3. Support #2 (Definition / Term): Highlights and clearly defines an essential domain-specific word or concept.
4. Support #3 (Detail / Quote): Deepens understanding with concrete elaboration, a real example, or a quote.
5. Concluding Sentence: Wraps up this subtopic smoothly and connects back to the central idea or next point.
3
Transitions & Flow
CCSS.W.5.2.C
Paragraph Connectors: Used transitions between sections (e.g., In addition, Another key aspect).
Internal Linking: Connected supporting facts using linking words (e.g., specifically, for instance, as a result).
4
Text Features & Tone
CCSS.W.5.2.A/D
Headings & Sections: Used clear subheadings to organize subtopics so readers navigate easily.
Visual Aids / Callouts: Included or planned a labeled diagram, chart, map, or bulleted list.
Objective Voice: Maintained an informative, expert voice (avoided informal slang or personal opinion).
5
Overall Piece Conclusion
CCSS.W.5.2.E
Restate Central Idea: Rephrased the central idea using fresh, varied words (did not copy word-for-word).
Synthesize Takeaways: Summarized the most important findings across all body paragraphs.
The "So What?" Ending: Left the reader with a final thought, reflection, or real-world significance.
6
Conventions & Editing
CCSS.L.5.1/2
Complete Sentences: Every sentence has a subject and predicate (no fragments or run-ons).
Punctuation & Quotes: Commas after transition words, in lists, and quotation marks for cited text.
Spelling & Capitalization: Capitalized proper nouns/titles and accurately spelled technical terms.
Informational Transition Word Bank
To Add:
furthermore, additionally, also, moreover
To Explain:
for instance, specifically, namely, in fact
To Contrast:
however, in contrast, unlike, on the other hand
To Conclude:
overall, consequently, in summary, as a result
Peer Feedback & Goal Reviewer: ________
★ Glow:
▲ Grow:
Final Status: Ready to Publish Needs 1 More Draft
