Unit 3 Expository Texts

Next Two Weeks Focus on Informational Texts What are informational texts? Procedural: technical step by step instructions, sequential instructions Expository: text written to inform, explain, and describe something to the reader

This Week Focus on Procedural Texts

What is a Procedural Text? Texts that show how to do a particular activity Examples: Recipes Explain how to cook something Directions Explain how to get somewhere

Procedural Texts The purpose of a procedure is to tell the reader how to do or make something. How to become a better dancer… The information is presented in a logical sequence of events, which is broken up into small sequenced steps. First, Next, Then…

See Notes… Types of Procedural Texts Texts that instruct how to do a particular activity Ex. How to play Checkers. Texts that instruct how to operate things Ex. How to create a power point show.

Features A procedure usually has four components (parts) Goal or Aim: Materials: Method: First, Next, Then Evaluation:

Also… Headings, subheadings, numbered steps, diagrams, photographs are often used to help clarify (simplify) instructions. Headers Explain what the entire paper or section is going to be about. Subheadings Are within the headers and explain what a section within the main section are going to be about. READING and knowing how to use both will make your life easier because they summarize the information for you.

For Example How to Make French Toast Ingredients 4 eggs 1 cup of milk ¾ teaspoons of sugar Numbered steps Procedure 1. Mix ingredients together. 2. Smother one slice of bread until fully coated. 3. Melt butter on skillet under high temperature. Header Photograph showing end product Subheading

Language The text usually: is written in the simple present tense (do this, do that) focuses on generalized people rather than individuals (first you take, rather than first I take) the reader is often referred to in a general way, Example: pronouns (you must or one must)

Language Continued… action verbs (cut, fold, twist, hold etc) linking words to do with time (first, when, then) are used to connect the text detailed information on how (carefully, with the scissors); where (from the top); when (after it has set) detailed factual description (shape, size, color, amount)

Big Question Why is it important to have clearly written down procedural instructions?