 A way to explain complex ideas and abstract concepts  Useful for giving readers instructions

 Are organized in chronological order  Explain how something is done or how it happens  Useful to explain things like ◦ How the body uses oxygen ◦ How the stock market works  These are all fairly complex  Simpler ideas ◦ How to change a tire ◦ How to stop smoking ◦ How to lose weight ◦ How to pass Expository Writing  You get the idea…

 Usually a statement of purpose ◦ Explains why a process is important, why it occurs, or why it should be completed, etc.  For example, if you want to explain how to change the oil in a car, you might begin by saying that “changing the oil regularly can extend a car engine’s life.” ◦ This would be your thesis

 Readers need to be able to follow your instructions easily ◦ Use clear, simple language ◦ Use the clearest, simplest organization  Chronological order ◦ Mention equipment and supplies needed before steps ◦ Discuss each step separately in its own paragraph ◦ Give all the necessary information  Don’t forget the details ◦ Use direct commands  “First, apply the handbrake.”  DO NOT say, “You should apply the brake. You could then…”  Just straight out tell them to do it.

 Unified writing contains only those details that help develop or support the central idea. ◦ Don’t include irrelevant information. It will distract your reader.  One-hundred percent of lottery winners gain weight.***  How many of you were totally thrown off by this?  In terms of writing, coherence refers to whether or not your sentences and paragraphs are arranged in a logical order. ◦ Use transitions to create a logical, coherent order  First this happens; then this; next that, etc.

 To indicate time ◦ After a few minutesFirst ◦ AlreadyNext ◦ As soon asSecond ◦ At that timeLater ◦ DuringLastly ◦ Immediately ◦ Meanwhile ◦ Before long ◦ Soon ◦ Then ◦ Until

1. Choose a topic that includes 3-5 concrete steps 2. In your intro paragraph, explain your process. 3. Make sure your thesis statement includes purpose. 4. Transition from one paragraph to the next. 5. Include a topic sentence at the start of each body paragraph. 6. Make sure steps are well defined and organized.

7. Make sure specific details are mentioned. 8. Use vivid descriptive words and sensory details.

 Take about 5 minutes to brainstorm a 3-5 step process that you know well. Write the process on a sheet of paper in 3-5 concrete steps.