1. Reading Expository Text

2. 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).

3. 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.

4. 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

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

6. 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.

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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

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

11. 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

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

13. 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

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

15. 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

16. 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.

17. #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

18. 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

19. 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