Expository Writing

Hey we’re gonna take Cornell Notes!

What is Expository Writing?

• Expository is writing to explain.

• Expository writing seeks to inform, explain, clarify, define or instruct.

What are examples of Expository Writing?

• letters, newsletters, definitions, instructions, guidebooks, catalogues, newspaper articles, magazine articles, manuals, pamphlets, reports and research papers

What are characteristics of Expository Writing?

• focus on main topic • logical supporting facts • details, explanations, and examples • strong organization • clarity • unity and coherence • logical order • smooth transitions

Types of Expository Writing

Sequence - The author lists items or events in numerical or chronological order.

• cooking instructions• driving directions• instructions on performing

a task• a review of an

historical event• an analysis

Types of Expository Writing

Descriptive Essay - The author describes a topic by listing characteristics, features, and examples – The author tries to

relate to the reader

through senses and

convey a mental image

Types of Expository Writing

COMPARISON – Author explains how things are alike or different

CAUSE AND EFFECT – The author lists one or more causes and the resulting effect or effects

PROBLEM SOLVING - The author states a problem and lists one or more solutions for the problem