1. Narrative VS. Expository Vs. Argumentative Writing
How to Successfully Improve Your STAAR ELA Score

2. Characteristics of Narrative Essay
Plot
Personal Dialogue
Characters
Events through Time
Reflections & Feelings
Tell What? Then what? Oh, my …and what?

3. Characteristics of Expository Essay
Facts & Information
Categorize Or Classification
Problem/Solution
Cause & Effect
Compare & Contrast
Defining Terms & Examples
State & Stay Focused ( Thesis statement ) Sequence of Events
How ? Then, you do what? How again?

4. The EX Factor
Explain, Examples, Extract, Expose, Exact, Explicit, Examine, Explore, Expound, Extend, Exhibit, Excite

5. Argument, Editorial, or Persuasive Essays
Use of Quotes as Evidence
Addresses both sides ( Pro & Con)
Examples & Anecdotes to Defend A Point
Builds a Case or Argument like a Scientist, Philosopher, or Advocate (Lawyer)
Reasoned & Empirical Persuasion
Usually Topics are Controversial & A Call to Action