How to Make a “3” or Better!

1. How to Make a “3” or Better! Expository Writing for STAAR EOC

2. Analyze the Prompt • Expository Writing is, according to the definition, an explanation. • What are you supposed to explain? Example Prompt: Write an essay explaining how a sport or activity can teach life lessons to those who participate in it.

3. Brainstorm and Plan • Write about what you know. • Ask yourself -- “What experience do I actually have with this prompt?” Example: Activities in which I participate? Life lessons I have learned? Specific situations?

4. Write Your Thesis • A SINGLE SENTENCE • At the BEGINNING of the essay • That states your position or opinion about the prompt. • Gives best reasons for believing as you do based on your planning. ExampleThesis: Being involved in sports and other extra curricular activities is important to the development of students because these activities teach the value of teamwork and determination which are essential in today’s world.

5. Plan Body Paragraph #1 • Choose one of your topics from your thesis and decide what you want to say about it in relation to the prompt. • Remember to develop your paragraphs with Facts, Anecdotes, Connections, and Examples. • DO NOT REPEAT THE SAME INFORMATION OVER AND OVER! Teamwork Paragraph: Being able to work in a team is one of the major life lessons taught through involvement in sports. As a member of the girls volleyball team, we are often in a situation where we must rely on those around us in order to be successful. I cannot set and spike the ball alone, so I rely on my teammates to do their jobs so I can do mine. In life, many jobs require people to work together in high pressure situations, and I feel as though my involvement in sports has prepared me for that challenge.

6. Plan Body Paragraph #2 • Stick to your thesis!! • Decide what you want to say about the other topic mentioned in your thesis. • Remember to develop your paragraphs with Facts, Anecdotes, Connections, and Examples. • DO NOT REPEAT THE SAME INFORMATION OVER AND OVER! Determination Paragraph: Another life lesson taught through sports and extra-curricular activities is the value of determination. In life it is important that we learn to never give up, even when there are obstacles in our paths. My sister learned this lesson in her experience in band. She plays clarinet, and at first, she had a horrible time getting the reed not to squeak. She became embarrassed and frustrated, but rather than giving up, she was determined to improve. She practiced and eventually made Honors Band. This victory through determination is a lesson she can now apply in all areas of her life.

7. Conclude • Briefly sum up your ideas. • Restate your thesis in a different way. • DO NOT introduce new information. Conclusion: Sports and extra-curricular activities are often seen as the “fun” classes in school, but they often present us with challenges that teach important life lessons such as teamwork and determination which can be carried over into our futures.

8. 26 LINE ESSAY No “fluff” or rhetorical questions Body paragraphs are logically organized. Being involved in sports and other extra curricular activities is important to the development of students because these activities teach the value of teamwork and determination which are essential in today’s world. Being able to work in a team is one of the major life lessons taught through involvement in sports. As a member of the girls volleyball team, we are often in a situation where we must rely on those around us in order to be successful. I cannot set and spike the ball alone, so I rely on my team mates to do their jobs so I can do mine. In life, many jobs require people to work together in high pressure situations, and I feel as though my involvement in sports has prepared me for that challenge. Another life lesson taught through sports and extra-curricular activities is the value of determination. In life it is important that we learn to never give up, even when there are obstacles in our paths. My sister learned this lesson in her experience in band. She plays clarinet, and at first, she had a horrible time getting the reed not to squeak. She became embarrassed and frustrated, but rather than giving up, she was determined to improve. She practiced and eventually made Honors Band. This victory through determination is a lesson she can now apply in all areas of her life. Sports and extra-curricular activities are often seen as the “fun” classes in school, but they often present us with challenges that teach important life lessons such as teamwork and determination which can be carried over into our futures. The thesis is focused on the prompt. Examples are clear, concise, and specific. All information is focused on the thesis. Diction and mechanics are strong. Sentence structure is strong and varied. Conclusion is a brief summary of points.