Types of Writing D.E.A.N.

So, what do I write? People write for different reasons or purposes. These purposes can be grouped under types of writing.

Types of Writing Descriptive Expository (A.K.A. Explain) Argumentative Narrative (A.K.A. Story) *Note: These writing types can overlap.

Descriptive Writing uses vivid images to describe a person, place, or event so that the topic can be clearly “seen” in the reader’s mind. Examples: menu, travel brochure, poster

Expository Writing Examples: essay, research paper, report, manual Provides information that explains, clarifies, or defines Examples: essay, research paper, report, manual

Argumentative Writing builds an argument for or against a claim. Use evidence to support your claim and look at the counterclaim. Examples: movie review, restaurant critique, letter to a newspaper editor, essay

Narrative Writing tells a (true or fictional) story and always includes characters, setting, and plot Examples: short story, novel, narrative poem, journal

Which type is it? A boy traveled a road alone on a sunny day in winter. His feet left tracks in the snow. Because he had never traveled alone, he was afraid. He heard a noise behind him and began to run.

Which type is it? There are many reasons to get rid of pennies. First, you can’t really buy anything with just pennies. Second, according to an article, “Pennies actually cost more to make than any other coin.” Lastly, they are a hassle to carry with you.

Which type is it? “This all-meat juicy patty will melt in your mouth. It’s served on a warm sesame seed bun, smothered with our secret sauce, topped with fresh tomatoes, lettuce, and pepper-jack cheese.”

Which type is it? “To make a cake first pre-heat the oven to 425 degrees. Next, mix the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then add 3 eggs, a ¼ cup butter, and ½ cup milk…”

Fact vs. Opinion A fact is a specific detail that can be proven as true. An opinion is a feeling, judgment, belief, or conclusion that cannot be proven true.

Separating Fact from Opinion Ask yourself, “Can this be proven?” Fact: Spinach is a source of iron. Opinion: Spinach tastes awful.

Fact vs. Opinion Minnie Verbermockle called the doctor and said, “My husband had a fall and he’s lying unconscious on the bathroom floor. I think he must have been taking a shower and slipped on a cake of soap. I did not move him. I threw a blanket over him and called you immediately.” When the doctor arrived, he saw the scene as depicted and pronounced Horace Verbermockle dead as the result of a fracture at the rear of his skull. Can you tell what happened?