Maison Hero

Explaining Structure

From doing to explaining

Today you will prove your understanding by explaining how one sentence works. You will analyze it, map it, then write a short paragraph using precise structure language. Your goal is clarity and evidence, not length.

Accountability today: this is your Week 1 Anchor Artifact. Submit analysis + map + explanation paragraph. We will save it for portfolio comparison later.

Learning Targets and Success Criteria

Targets

  • I can identify the main structure (the clause that carries meaning).
  • I can identify attachments (phrases or dependent clauses) and what they connect to.
  • I can make a simple map that shows structure and connections.
  • I can write an explanation using precise words like clause, phrase, connector, detail, function.
  • I can use my map as evidence to support my explanation.

Success Criteria

  • I name the main clause and explain why it is the main structure.
  • I explain at least two attachments and what each one adds (time, place, cause, manner, condition, contrast).
  • I label every part of my map and show clear connections (no floating pieces).
  • My paragraph explains how the sentence works, not just what it contains.
  • A reader could understand the sentence from my explanation without seeing the original.
Function
The job a part performs in the sentence.
Main Structure
The clause that carries the core meaning.
Attachment
A phrase or dependent clause that connects to the main structure.
Evidence
Specific parts of the sentence and map you point to in your explanation.

Mini-Lesson: Explain Like an Engineer

Engineers do not only build designs, they document how designs work. Today you will document sentence structure. A strong explanation does three things: it names the main structure, shows how parts connect, and explains why those connections matter.

What to avoid
Not a summary: do not retell what the sentence says.
Not a list: do not just list parts without explaining connections.
Not vague: avoid “it shows” or “it adds” without saying what and where.

The 3-step explanation

  • Step 1: Name the main clause (main structure).
  • Step 2: Explain attachments and what each one adds.
  • Step 3: Explain how the whole structure creates meaning.
Clarity test
If someone can understand how the sentence works from your paragraph, your explanation is successful.

Sentence frames (use as needed)

Frames
1) The main structure of this sentence is ____ because ____.
2) The phrase/clause ____ attaches to ____ and adds ____ (time/place/cause/etc.).
3) This connection matters because ____.
4) Overall, the structure works by ____.
Check for Understanding (CFU)
In one sentence, explain the difference between listing parts and explaining structure.

Analyze: Choose One Sentence

Choose a sentence. Then complete the analysis steps. You will use your analysis to build your map and paragraph.

Sentence Controls
Identify the main structure, then attachments.
1) Main structure
Copy the main clause (the part that can stand alone and carry meaning).
2) Attachments
List each phrase or connector part and what it adds (time, place, cause, manner, condition, contrast).
3) Connection notes
For each attachment, write what it connects to (what it modifies).
4) Evidence you will use
Write the exact words you will quote in your paragraph to prove your explanation.
Map (text version)
Use the template generator, then edit it so it matches your sentence. Label every part.
Engineering Documentation Check
Your analysis should show the main system (main clause), the extensions (attachments), and the connections (what attaches to what).

Explain: Write the Anchor Artifact Paragraph

Use your analysis and map as evidence. Write one short paragraph that explains how the sentence works. Aim for 5 to 7 sentences. Use structure vocabulary correctly.

1
Start: name the main structure (main clause) and why it is load-bearing.
2
Explain: describe at least two attachments and what each one adds.
3
Prove: quote specific words as evidence from the sentence.
4
Finish: explain how the structure creates clarity for the reader.

Rubric preview (what matters most)

  • Precision: correct vocabulary (clause, phrase, connector, function).
  • Connections: you explain what attaches to what.
  • Evidence: you point to exact words from the sentence.
  • Clarity: your paragraph is easy to follow and not vague.
Quick self-check
Before you submit, circle three vocabulary words you used correctly in your paragraph.

Write your explanation

Sentence frames (optional)
The main structure of this sentence is ____ because ____.
The attachment ____ connects to ____ and adds ____.
This matters because ____.
Overall, the sentence creates clarity by ____.
Exit Ticket Frame

Exit Challenge

In one sentence, explain why engineers and writers both use documentation. Use the words evidence and clarity.