Expository Writing

Expository Writing Expository writing informs with an explanation or report. It may involve giving a step by step account or a how to procedure. There generally is no persuasion or argumentation in expository writing.

More on Expository.. Expository writing is found in training books, in assembly manuals, in recounts or explanations of an event, or in the retelling of a story.

Key Words for Expository Writing First Second Then Next Finally

Types of phrases to AVOID! In this essay(paragraph), I will... in my opinion.... In conclusion... all in all (generally any cliches) avoid using first person (“I” or “my”) unless writing is about YOU

Key Terms for shorter piece of writing: Topic Sentence: First sentence of your paragraph that states main idea and grabs the reader’s attention. The paragraph should have two “fact” or “claim” sentences that make specific points about the topic. The first should follow the topic sentence, and the second comes a few sentences later in the paragraph. Each “fact” or “claim” sentence should be followed by two sentences of evidence to prove that claim or fact. (Assume the reader will not believe you, so you must prove your points with evidence). The final sentence should be a conclusion of the whole paragraph that makes a broader point or “universal statement.” The complete paragraph should be about 8-11 sentences long.

Key Terms to help with the writing process for essays Hook: The first sentence a piece of writing that “hooks” the reader into the piece. Thesis: Expresses main idea or purpose of the piece of writing. Often the last sentence of the introduction if it is an essay. Topic Sentence: States the body paragraph’s main idea and supports the thesis. Does not provide supporting details. This is later in the paragraph. Essays should have 3 topic sentences if it is 5-paragraph.

To use Expository writing the learner must: Know that “expository” means informing and explaining (the number one word on the SBA). Remember the order of an event, procedure, or process. Be specific and accurate in explanations. Write for readers who will retell the information or who must follow the procedure step by step.

Examples of Expository Writing Book Report How-to guide/brochure Recount of an event Directions Instructions Research paper News story “My Story” in auto Explaining how to get an answer in math Explaining an activity in PE Lab report in science

Prompt for Biology Biology: 9th Grade—similarities and differences: Prompt: Cells are classified as prokaryotic or eukaryotic. Define these two terms, and then sketch diagrams of the two types of cells. List the major differences between the cell types and label the major internal components of the cells. Which type of cell is found in animal life?

Prompt for Algebra I Algebra I: 9th Grade—Explain and describe: Prompt: In your own words, explain what a fraction is and give an example.

Prompt for Geography Geography: 9th Grade— Geography—Explain and describe: Prompt: Explain how to be a good citizen.

Prompt for PE PE: Explain and describe Prompt: During fitness stations, you have several opportunities to build muscle and improve cardiovascular function. How does your body benefit from these activities?

Prompt for English 9 English 9th Grade: Explain and describe: How many times have you caught yourself thinking about something else while someone was speaking to you? Was it embarrassing when that person then asked you a question and you couldn’t answer? Clearly, communication fails when listening does not take place. Prompt: Plan and write and essay to explain the following statement: Listening is the key to successful oral communication. Support your position with reasoning and examples.

Some Pre-Writing Tools

Two Assessment Tools

Expository Rubric for essays

Rubric for paragraphs

Race Rubric for shorter writing