Writing an Expository Essay Merriam Websters Dictionary defines

Writing an Expository Essay

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

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 thesis statement (in the body paragraphs) a conclusion that makes a final thought for the audience

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

Just tell me what I need to do to pass! You’ll need: Well all right then! 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. Ø 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! Ø Ø

*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)