Expository Writing Understanding Essay Writing

Expository Writing This is the basic form of writing assigned in most classes. Expository means “explaining” paper

Purpose Inform Explain Examine Discuss Illustrate

Format Thesis statement plus support Thesis The focus of the paper. A thesis can either be a single point or a three point statement.

Structure Tightly structured Opening paragraph Several (usually three) supporting paragraphs Closing paragraph

Structure con’t Beginning Hook the reader Identify thesis you plan to develop

Structure con’t Middle Write supporting paragraphs Each paragraph covers one thesis point Each paragraph has at least two supporting points

Structure con’t Ending tie the main points together Draw a final conclusion

Types of Support Facts Statements and statistics that add support and validity to your writing. They help prove your main points

Types of Support Examples A way of “showing” your ideas to readers Use real or hypothetical situations to make your point.

Types of Support Quotations Use the words of experts Adds authority to your writing

Organization Use an outline or a web to set up your paper. Each thesis point needs two supporting details. Use the hamburger model to help you organize.

Topics Inform the readers about a meaningful and interesting subject. You are not arguing for or against the subject The purpose is to convey information clearly and completely.

Getting started 1. Choose a subject. I will give you one for practice, but you will need to select one for the assessed essay. 2. Limit your focus. Education ---the learning disabled-- individuals overcoming learning disabilities.

Getting started 3. Gather your details Research or collect information 4. Form your thesis statement 5. Plan and organize your essay 6. Write your draft Link your ideas with transitions 7. Revise, revise, revise!