Reading Expository Text

Expository Texts include: text books, non-fiction trade (library) books, newspaper & magazine articles, directions, essays, speeches, user manuals (how-to guides), government documents (such as the driver’s license test booklet).

There are certain elements found in expository text, each type of element makes its own demands on the reader: description, sequence, comparison, cause & effect, problem & solution, proposition & support.

Description The author lists characteristics, features, and examples to describe a subject. Have wings use soundwaves they are mammals They fly eat insects Bats   sleep in daytime hang upside down different kinds

Description Signal Words Signal to Reader Such as, for example, for instance, most important, in front, beside, near A list of characteristics will follow

Sequence The author lists items or events in numerical or chronological order. Helps the reader understand how events are related Almost 300 males competed in the 1896 Olympics Modern Olympics began in 1896 Olympics ended in 394 A.D. Olympics began in 276 B.C.

Sequence Signal Words Signal to Reader First, second, third, before, on (date), not long after, after that, at the same time, finally, then A sequence of events or steps in a process is being described

Comparison The author explains how two or more things are alike or different. no snow warmer temperatures flowers baby animals Easter & 4th of July seasons – sun shines sports are played Summer and Winter snow colder temperatures no flowers blooming bears hibernate Christmas & New Years

Comparison Signal Words Signal to Reader Like, unlike, but, in contrast, on the other hand, however, also, too, as well as Likenesses and differences are being presented and/or discussed

Cause & Effect The author explains one or more causes and the resulting effect or effects.

Cause and Effect Signal Words Signal to Reader Therefore, so, this led to, as a result, because, if…then…, consequently, cause, effect, in order to, since Evidence of causes and effects will be given

Problem & Solution The author states a problem and lists one or more solutions for the problem.

Problem and Solution Signal Words Signal to Reader Solution, solve, effect, hopeful, concern, challenge, resolve Problems AND solutions will be discussed. With problem and solution there is ALWAYS a solution

Proposition & Support The author makes a claim/statement and supports it with details

Proposition & Support Signal Words Signal to Reader Clearly, logically, surely, in conclusion, therefore A claim will be made and details will be given to support the claim. Author is trying to persuade

Marking the Text In order to identify which type of expository text you are reading and to determine the author’s purpose, it is important to mark the text. When marking the text for nonfiction there are three steps to follow.

#1,2,3 Step 1 Number the paragraphs Do this first as it will give you a reference point when you are reading #1,2,3

Step 2 Circle key terms, cited authors, and other essential words or numbers To identify key terms consider if the word is repeated, defined by the author, used to explain an idea, a central concept, or relevant to the reading purpose

Step 3 Underline the author’s claims and other information that is relevant to the reading purpose Claim: An arguable statement that should be supported with data, facts, and other backing Claims can be anywhere in the text There may be more than one claim