Narrative VS. Expository Vs. Argumentative Writing How to Successfully Improve Your STAAR ELA Score

Characteristics of Narrative Essay Plot Personal Dialogue Characters Events through Time Reflections & Feelings Tell What? Then what? Oh, my …and what?

Characteristics of Expository Essay Facts & Information Categorize Or Classification Problem/Solution Cause & Effect Compare & Contrast Defining Terms & Examples State & Stay Focused ( Thesis statement ) Sequence of Events How ? Then, you do what? How again?

The EX Factor Explain, Examples, Extract, Expose, Exact, Explicit, Examine, Explore, Expound, Extend, Exhibit, Excite

Argument, Editorial, or Persuasive Essays Use of Quotes as Evidence Addresses both sides ( Pro & Con) Examples & Anecdotes to Defend A Point Builds a Case or Argument like a Scientist, Philosopher, or Advocate (Lawyer) Reasoned & Empirical Persuasion Usually Topics are Controversial & A Call to Action