Explanation Text's Generic Structure General statement: expressing the phenomenon concerns that will be discussed sequenced explanation: declaring a set of stages that will explain the phenomenon concludes with a summary statement For example, "The pine tree is known to grow in the forest." Explanation: "This tree is unique because it grows in pine trees." Sequenced explanation: "First, the tree grows near soil rich in minerals called "phosphorus" which other plants cannot use. Then, when enough phosphorus are available, other trees disappear and only this one remains. Last, when the tree reaches a certain size, it becomes a source of food for animals who eat its seeds." Concludes with a summary statement: "Thus, the tree is unique because it grows in a place where others would like to grow." Another example: "This car runs on gasoline which is made from oil. This oil comes from plants which die and decompose releasing the nutrients they contained. Animals digest the plants' bones and shells to obtain the nutrients they need to survive. Humans use these animals for food so they can continue living themselves. Thus, humans are responsible for the death of plants to feed themselves." Summary statement: "Cars are useful because they allow us to travel quickly and far."