Introductions and Conclusions (KS1–KS2)

The beginning tells the reader what to expect. The ending reminds them what mattered.

Introductions

State the topic and purpose (to explain / to inform).
Include 1–2 interesting facts, a question or a short definition.
Keep it short: 1–2 sentences for KS1, 2–4 for KS2.

Example introductions

KS1 (2 sentences): This report is about penguins. Penguins are birds that cannot fly but are excellent swimmers.

KS2 (3 sentences): Volcanoes are powerful forces of nature that can change the land around them. This report explains how volcanoes erupt and what causes them. You will learn three important facts about volcanoes.

Conclusions

Summarise the main point — one short sentence.
Add a final fact, tip, or a question to make the reader think.
Avoid repeating whole sentences from the introduction; rephrase instead.

Example conclusions

KS1: Penguins are fascinating birds that live in cold places.

KS2: In conclusion, volcanoes are both destructive and creative forces — they can destroy buildings but also form new land. Remember: always follow safety advice if you visit volcanic areas.

Try It

Write a short (2–3 sentence) introduction for a report on "Volcanoes" using an interesting fact.
Write a short conclusion for a piece about recycling that gives one tip the reader can do today.

Teacher tip: model an introduction and conclusion together, then ask pupils to swap and improve each other's endings.

Learning objectives & lesson plan

Write a short introduction that states the topic and purpose.
Create a conclusion that summarises and leaves the reader with one final thought.

Mini lesson (15–20 mins): Model a full report with intro, main points and conclusion. Pupils then write a short introduction and conclusion for a suggested topic, swap and give one piece of feedback.

Combined model (intro + main + conclusion)

Topic: Volcanoes

Introduction: Volcanoes are powerful forces of nature that can change the land around them. This report explains how volcanoes erupt and what causes them.

Main points (example): Volcanoes form when hot molten rock (magma) rises to the Earth's surface. Eruptions can throw out ash, lava and gases. Some eruptions are small; others are very large and change the landscape.

Conclusion: In conclusion, volcanoes can be both dangerous and fascinating; learning about them helps us understand how the Earth changes over time.

Marking tips & quick success criteria

Introduction: Does it state the topic and purpose in 1–2 sentences?
Conclusion: Does it summarise and add a final thought or tip?
Language: Is it appropriate (no first person unless asked)?