1. Writing an Expository Essay

2. Merriam Webster’s Dictionary defines an expository essay as… a discourse or an example designed to convey information or explain what is difficult to understanddiscourse ex·po·si·tion (noun)

3. Introduction to Expository Writing In order to classify as expository, an essay needs: to explain/discuss a particular subject matter a thesis statement at the end of the introduction that answers the prompt strong evidence that backs up the thesis statement (in the body paragraphs) a conclusion that makes a final thought for the audience

4. Literary vs. Expository Writing o Tells a story o Includes a setting and character o Contains a conflict o Includes dialogue o Provides a resolution o Prompt will include a photo o Creative o Explains/discusses a topic o Includes a thesis statement o Contains evidence o Includes commentary (reasoning) o Provides a conclusion o Prompt will be completely textual o Informative Literary Expository

5. Just tell me what I need to do to pass! Well all right then! You’ll need:  A short introductory paragraph  A clear, strong thesis (answer to the prompt)  Body paragraphs (explain a clear real-life example)  A concluding paragraph that restates your thesis using different wording.  Don’t fill up your page with nonsense, but do try to fill up the page with well thought-out, concise wording. Do Not waste any words!

6. *The expository prompt page on the STAAR test typically has a lot of text. Think of expository in this way: It is logical and informative. (You’ll see on the next slide)