Writing an Expository Essay

Merriam Webster’s Dictionary defines an expository essay as… a discourse or an example designed to convey information or explain what is difficult to understanddiscourse ex·po·si·tion (noun)

Introduction to Expository Writing In order to classify as expository, an essay needs: to explain/discuss a particular subject matter a thesis statement at the end of the introduction that answers the prompt strong evidence that backs up the thesis statement (in the body paragraphs) a conclusion that makes a final thought for the audience

Literary vs. Expository Writing o Tells a story o Includes a setting and character o Contains a conflict o Includes dialogue o Provides a resolution o Prompt will include a photo o Creative o Explains/discusses a topic o Includes a thesis statement o Contains evidence o Includes commentary (reasoning) o Provides a conclusion o Prompt will be completely textual o Informative Literary Expository

Just tell me what I need to do to pass! Well all right then! You’ll need:  A short introductory paragraph  A clear, strong thesis (answer to the prompt)  Body paragraphs (explain a clear real-life example)  A concluding paragraph that restates your thesis using different wording.  Don’t fill up your page with nonsense, but do try to fill up the page with well thought-out, concise wording. Do Not waste any words!

*The expository prompt page on the STAAR test typically has a lot of text. Think of expository in this way: It is logical and informative. (You’ll see on the next slide)