1. Expository Writing

2. What expository writing does
T ells the reader something IMPORTANT.
H elps readers relate to the information.
E ngages readers by using specific details, colorful punch words, and images.
P laces the thesis (controlling idea) early in the paper as a focus.
A dds to the reader’s knowledge by giving inside information.
P resents the explanation in an clear and lively way.
E mphasizes the thesis but not merely by repeating it.
R enders a coherent, cohesive delivery system (organization) of what was promised.

3. DO’s and Don’ts of expository writing
Express the point of the paper
Defend
Be specific
Be concise
Use strong verbs when possible
Make a statement
DON’T
Bifurcate (divide into two parts)
Describe the strategy of the paper
Be wordy
Write the thesis as a question

4. The thesis sets the point; everything else supports it.
The thesis statement
The thesis lays down the writer’s position at the start of the paper so the reader has clear expectations about the paper’s purpose.
The thesis sets the point; everything else supports it.

5. The ABC’s of Writing a Good thesis statement
The thesis ASSERTS- get an angle on the topic that makes you feel confident.
For example, don’t use wishy-washy statements such as
“Sometimes some people, but not all people, want a
dog or some kind of a pet, maybe a bird.”
INSTEAD, make an assertive statement such as
“Pets make fine companions.”

6. The ABC’s of Writing a Good thesis statement
The thesis statement must BE AN INSIDER.
This means choosing an angle as an expert about one particular aspect of the topic.
For example, if the prompt reads, “Convince your parents that sports are safe,” choose a sport you know.

7. THE ABC’S OF WRITING A GOOD THESIS STATEMENT
The thesis statement must be CLEAR.
Save your profound statements for the body of the paper
The thesis should pop and crackle with precise word choice, not ambiguity.
When you are not an expert on the topic, don’t resort to vagueness; that is, broad generalizations that promise nothing specific.
It is much better to be authentically simple.

8. TEN CRITERIA FOR A GOOD THESIS STATEMENT
Expresses the point of the paper
Defensibility
Specificity
Conciseness
Contains strong verbs whenever possible
Makes a statement (a declarative sentence)
Avoids trying to analyze more than one thing
Does not give away the strategy (don’t say “I am going to…”)
Eschews excessive wordiness
Never asks a question (a thesis statement calls for a declarative statement)