The Expository Essay Outline

Introductory Paragraph Hook: Engage your reader in your topic with a quote, a statement of truth, a statistic, etc. Background Information: Give your reader two sentences or so on what is typically believed about your topic. For example, how love is treated by the movies. Three-prong thesis statement: The true definition of ____ is _____ because/for example_____, ______, and __________.

Body Paragraph 1 Transition: Initially, the first, one way, primarily... Reason 1 (1 sentence) Supporting Details and Explanation (5 sentences) Concluding Sentence (1 sentence)

Body Paragraph 2 Transition: Initially, the first, one way, primarily... Reason 2 (1 sentence) Supporting Details and Explanation (5 sentences) Concluding Sentence (1 sentence)

Body Paragraph 3 Transition: Initially, the first, one way, primarily... Reason 3 (1 sentence) Supporting Details and Explanation (5 sentences) Concluding Sentence (1 sentence)

Concluding Paragraph Transition: Finally, in summary, with this thinking in mind… Restate Thesis: Reword your thesis statement. Closing: Leave your reader with a provocative thought, a challenge to change thinking, a quote, etc. that drives home your point.

Supporting Details Quotes on your subject from a credible source. Real-life snapshot moments Scenario examples Facts/Statistics