Expository Writing

writing to explain or inform

Patterns of Expository

Writing:Description/ Explanation

Cause and Effect

Comparison and Contrast

Problem-Solution

Description/Explanation

This structure describes the order of steps in a process or a series of events in chronological order.

Examples: biographies, recipes, driving directions, and “How-to” (instructions on performing a task)

Title ______________________________ Introduction

› ______________________________ › ______________________________

Body › ______________________________

______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________

› ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________

› ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________

› ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________

Conclusion › ______________________________ › ______________________________

Biography

How-To EssayKool-Aid, Oh yeah!

It has been said that Kool-Aid makes the world go 'round. Let it be advised, however, that without the proper tools and directions, the great American beverage is nothing more than an envelope of unsweetened powder. There are a few simple steps to create this candy-tasting concoction.

Picking the proper packet of flavoring is the first step in making Kool-Aid. Check the grocer's shelf for a wide variety. If you can decide on one, knock yourself out and buy two. The second step is to find a two-quart pitcher, a long-handled wooden spoon, a one-cup measuring cup, a water faucet that spouts drinkable water, usable white sugar, and an ice cube tray full of ice. Then, you are ready to mix.

Third, open the packet and dump the contents of the envelope into the pitcher. Then, take the measuring cup and scoop sugar into the pitcher as well. Place the pitcher under the water faucet and slowly turn on the cold water. If the water is turned on too quickly, powder will fly all over when the initial gusts of water hit. Vigorously stir in a clockwise motion until all of the powder is dissolved. Taste it. If the Kool-Aid is not sweet enough, feel free to add more sugar.

Fourth, when the Kool-Aid is to your liking, rinse off the spoon and the measuring cup. Add ice to a glass and fill with Kool-Aid. Find a comfortable chair, put your feet up, and drink away. After all, Kool-Aid makes the world go 'round.

Cause and Effect Cause-and-effect writing gives reasons and

explanations for events, conditions, or behavior. It answers the need most of us have to understand the world around us.

Examples: › Cause #1: People don't vote for the candidate

they want in office. Effect #1: Then that candidate does not get

elected because so many people did not vote. › Cause #2: Students misbehave at their lunch

table Effect #2: Then their entire table gets silent

lunch or a seating chart until behavior improves.

CAUSEAND

EFFE

CT

Comparison and Contrast Comparative text shows how two or

more subjects are similar or contrasting.

This type of structure is often used in determining which is the better of two or more choices.

Examples: Telling why "F" week is better than "M" or "S" week, or explaining how American football is different than fútbol.

Comparison and Contrast

Problem-Solution Much of nonfiction writing

is organized in a problem-solution format.

The writer first describes the problem and then one or more solutions.

Problem-Solution

Problem-Solution

Sometimes one gets busy and forgets to their homework.

There are a variety of solutions to this problem.

Completing homework is very important.

By neglecting homework, one will not be able to acquire the necessary skills to be successful.

Complete:1. during the ride to

school. 2. in the cafeteria3. during

homeroom4. spare time in

another class5. etc. etc.

Summary of Proposal Need Proposed

Solution