Expository Timed Writing & Structure

Pre-Assessment 1. What is the purpose of expository writing? 2. What is the basic structure of the introduction (3 things)? 3. What is a thesis statement? 4. What is the basic structure of the body paragraph (3 things)? 5. What is a topic sentence?

What is the purpose of Expository Writing? To… Inform Explain Clarify Define Instruct

Examples Letters Newsletters Definitions Instructions Guidebooks Catalogues Newspaper articles Magazine articles Manuals Pamphlets Reports Research papers.

Expository Writing The writer understands the topic The writer shares that knowledge through writing

Effective Expository Writing The writer clearly communicates the information and effectively shares the knowledge so the reader will understand.

Why should I care? Expository Prompts CAHSEE exam SAT exam Scholarship Applications Research Papers

Expository Structure Introduction Hook Summary Thesis statement 3 Body Paragraphs Topic sentences Supporting Details Elaboration Conclusion Wrap-up Significance

Expository Introduction Hook General statement about the prompt to “hook” the reader Summary 1-2 sentence summary about the topic Thesis Statement The statement that directly answers the prompt Includes 3 main points/reasons (“3-part thesis statement”)

Thesis Statement Need three main points/reasons (x, y, z) Example: Taking the garbage out is such a horrible task because it stinks, it is sticky, and the dogs always carry it away. X=it stinks Y=it is sticky Z=the dogs always carry it away

Thesis, cont. Example: The life of the typical high school student is characterized by time spent studying, attending class, and socializing with peers. X= ? Y= ? Z = ?

Body Paragraphs Topic Sentence The first sentence of every body paragraph The mini-thesis related to x, y OR z Supporting Detail Specific examples the author uses to defend the thesis of the essay Elaboration Additional information related to the supporting details in the body of the essay

Topic Sentence Thesis: Taking the garbage out is such a horrible task because it stinks, it is sticky, and the dogs always carry it away. Body Paragraph 1 – topic sentence The worst part about taking out the trash is the stench it leaves behind. Body Paragraph 2 – topic sentence The sticky and gooey part of empting the trash makes it almost unbearable. Body Paragraph 3 – topic sentence It is a challenge to get the trash past the dogs.

Timed Writing: Expository Use the ABC Strategy… Attack the prompt Brainstorm your ideas Choose your organization

Timed Writing “Good writers are those who keep the language efficient. That is to say, keep it accurate, keep it clear.” -Ezra Pound

Transitions Transitions link ideas together to create coherence in an essay. Transition Words – must use to introduce topic sentences and concrete details Sample Transition Words: First, Next, For example, Second, In addition, For instance, Third, Furthermore, Finally,

Sample Prompt Best friends are special people in our lives. Think about your best friend and reasons that you like him or her. Think about things that you enjoy doing together. Write a paper telling about your best friend. Include at least three reasons why s/he is your best friend. Remember to use specific details to explain and support your reasons.

Reflection 1. Write the definition of expository writing in your own words. 2. Give two examples of expository writing. 3. Explain why sophomores should care about expository writing. 4. What is the basic structure of the introduction? 5. What is a thesis statement? 6. What is the basic structure of the body paragraph? 7. What is a topic sentence? 8. What does A-B-C stand for?