Expository Writing

1. Expository Writing Understanding Essay Writing

2. Expository Writing • This is the basic form of writing assigned in most classes. • Expository means “explaining” paper

3. Purpose • Inform • Explain • Examine • Discuss • Illustrate

4. Format • Thesis statement plus support • Thesis • The focus of the paper. A thesis can either be a single point or a three point statement.

5. Structure • Tightly structured • Opening paragraph • Several (usually three) supporting paragraphs • Closing paragraph

6. Structure con’t • Beginning • Hook the reader • Identify thesis you plan to develop

7. Structure con’t • Middle • Write supporting paragraphs • Each paragraph covers one thesis point • Each paragraph has at least two supporting points

8. Structure con’t • Ending • tie the main points together • Draw a final conclusion

9. Types of Support • Facts • Statements and statistics that add support and validity to your writing. • They help prove your main points

10. Types of Support • Examples • A way of “showing” your ideas to readers • Use real or hypothetical situations to make your point.

11. Types of Support • Quotations • Use the words of experts • Adds authority to your writing

12. Organization • Use an outline or a web to set up your paper. • Each thesis point needs two supporting details. • Use the hamburger model to help you organize.

13. Topics • Inform the readers about a meaningful and interesting subject. • You are not arguing for or against the subject • The purpose is to convey information clearly and completely.

14. Getting started 1. Choose a subject. I will give you one for practice, but you will need to select one for the assessed essay. 2. Limit your focus. • Education ---the learning disabled-- individuals overcoming learning disabilities.

15. Getting started 3. Gather your details • Research or collect information 4. Form your thesis statement 5. Plan and organize your essay 6. Write your draft • Link your ideas with transitions 7. Revise, revise, revise!