Expository Writing

What is an Expository? An expository contains the following elements: Specific topic Clear thesis Organization appropriate to topic Evidence Facts Examples Quotations

An Expository is NOT An expository paper is not a persuasive paper. It should not have any personal pronouns present or any opinions infused.

Format We are going to use a standard five paragraph format for this essay. If this is not familiar to you, consider your hand. Your thumb and pinky are shorter and will represent your introduction and conclusion which hold less information. Thus, they are shorter. Your three fingers in the middle will be the body paragraphs of your paper. They are longer fingers and will hold more information in your essay. Let’s take a look.

Introduction The introduction will state your topic. Leave out the personal pronouns. Don’t say, “I’m going to tell you about . . .” Mention what your support will be, but do not give details at this point.

The Body The body should support the topic with examples. The examples can include facts and quotes. The use of facts and quotes adds power to your believability.

Transition Words Transition words are verbal indicators to the reader to signify structure and flow. You should use them at the beginning of each paragraph except your introduction.

Transition Words First Second Also Next In addition Additionally Finally In conclusion

Conclusion You should restate the focus of the essay and summarize your main points again for the reader. Be careful not to say it exactly the same as you did in the introduction. Use a thesaurus and find some friendly synonyms.

Follow the handout to complete an expository writing. Assignment Follow the handout to complete an expository writing.