( A few thoughts about Expository writing)
Expository is writing that is meant to inform the reader. Informational writing in the lower grades is similar to what will be discussed in this post. Opinion isn’t a part of this writing. Describing, defining, explaining, and informing about a topic is the gist of it.
Before asking students to write , we must first link reading and writing for them. They need to “see and hear” it before they can write it. Students must read other expository writings and discuss them, break them apart, and model them to prepare for their own expository writing.
In preparation, students need to be taught to write an effective thesis. Conducting research may also be an important part in this process. Discuss with students techniques for grabbing/hooking the interest of the audience. Stick to the facts. Clarity and organization are important.
Examples of Expository:
- Process essays
- C/C
- Business writing
- Cover Letters
- Resumes
- Research papers
- Oral History
- Textbooks
- News stories
- Technical Guides
Explain. Report. Describe how to…Tell what happened when…
Ways to Develop a Main Idea in Expository
- Examples
- Compare and contrast
- Definition and Explanation
- Cause and effect
****Tip: Avoid first and second person pronouns in Expository writing.