What are the 4 types (modes) of writing?  Expository (also called informational)  Persuasive (also called argumentative)  Narrative  Descriptive

Expository Writing  Expository writing "explains" or "informs.“  Most of the writing we do is expository.  When we do EXPOSitory writing, we are EXPOSing the reader to specific information.  Written as essay (Introduction, Body, Conclusion) No “I” Language

Persuasive Writing  Persuasive writing “convinces” or “argues”  expresses opinions supported by facts  Example- Writing a letter to Santa, letter about uniform policy, argument about better school lunch

Narrative Writing  Narrative is storytelling  Can be fact or fiction.  Has a beginning, middle, and end  Uses characters and dialogue

Descriptive Writing  Descriptive Writing can be used in the other three types of writing  Adheres to the five senses  Describes a person, object, or thing in detail  Creates a vivid image for the reader

Which two Writing Types are used most frequently?  Expository (highlight)- On the MEAP you will be required to write an expository piece (informational)  Narrative (highlight)- On the MEAP you will be required to write a narrative as well.

What is the last Writing Prompt on the MEAP?  Peer Student Example- You will be required to read a student’s writing and write about improvements and changes the writer could have made. It would be important to use words you know about writing and using the 6+1 Writing Traits as a guide.

Practice  Take out a scrap sheet of paper. Number your paper 1-4. Read each prompt and see if you can guess the type of writing.

Practice 1  My dog is very likeable and playful. His name is Simpson. He has pitch black fur and a big fluffy tail. His eyes are a deep forest green and he enjoys playing fetch. When he gets in trouble, he puts his head down and whimpers. When it’s time to eat, his tail wags and he gives an unusual high pitch bark. Simpson is a great pet.

Practice 2  September 11, 2011 was a terrible day for most Americans in downtown New York. This marked the day the infamous World Trade Center was hit by two flying planes. Terrorists known as part of Bin Laden’s Al Qaeda were responsible. Many Americans lost their lives and many children lost their parents. 9/11 has never been the same for those families who suffered the lost of their loved ones. Every year a moment of silence and a memorial is given for the fallen victims of 9/11.

Practice 3  I heard the ice cream truck’s musical sounds down the street from my house. I jumped out of my bed and ran as fast as I could down the steep steps and then PLOP! Before I knew it I slid all the way down the steps giving my bottom severe carpet burn. Needless to say, I didn’t want any ice cream after that.

Practice 4  Every student at my school should be able to use the vending machines. For one, students get hungry just like teachers do. A quick snack in the middle of the day would be a good “pick-me-up”. Secondly, students should receive equal opportunity just as the staff in showing compromise and fairness. If this is a school that wants to teach the students values, surely letting students use the vending machine is teaching the concept of equality. Finally, being able to use the vending machine will help students who forget their lunch or is not too fond of the school’s lunch. Overall, vending machines should be just like the U.S. Constitution, freedom of choice!

How many did you get right?  1. Descriptive  2. Expository  3. Narrative  4. Persuasive

Assignment  Complete the “Different Types of Writing” paper.  You will need:  A partner  A highlighter  A pen/pencil  An understanding of the four writing types