The Essay

An introduction to the primary modes of essay writing.

Three main types of writing:

Expository Persuasive Narrative

An expository essay…

…Gives facts …Explains …Gives steps in a process. …Presents ideas in logical order

or correct sequence.

Key words in an expository prompt

1. School is not the only place to learn. Write a multi-paragraph letter to a teacher in which you identify something you remember learning outside of school and explain why this has been important to you.

2. Everyone has an activity that they enjoy doing. It might be playing an instrument, or a sport. Think about what you like to do the most. Write a paper telling what you most enjoy doing and at least three reasons why you like this activity so well.

YOU WILL FIND THESE WORDS IN THE PROMPT: EXPLAIN or TELL HOW.

The Persuasive Essay…

…Is asked to prove something …Gives reasons why …Presents arguments against your

reasons - shows them to be false. …Takes a stand …Asks or calls for an action

Key words in a persuasive prompt1. Some nutritionists think the snack offerings at your

school are terrible. Because of this, parents are asking the principal to remove all soda pop and candy machines. Take a position on this proposal. Write a multiple-paragraph letter to your principal to persuade him or her to agree with your position.

2. Recently a citizen’s group proposed a change to the rules for obtaining a driver’s license. The group has proposed that high school students have at least a “B” average in order to get a driver’s license. Take a position on this proposal. Write a letter to the editor of your local paper to convince voters to agree with your position.

YOU WILL FIND THESE WORDS IN THE PROMPT: PERSUADE or CONVINCE

The Narrative Essay… …Tells a story …Has sequence of events …Has action …Has conflicts or problems …Has dialogue …Has characters …Has a definite beginning, middle

and end

Key words in a narrative prompt1. Movies and books often talk about the importance of

loyalty and friendship. Tell about a time in your life when friendship proved to be of great importance to you.

2. It is often said that animals are humans’ best friends. Describe a time in your life when this saying proved to be true.

YOU WILL FIND THESE WORDS IN THE PROMPT: TELL ABOUT or DESCRIBE

Were you paying attention? Our dreams often reflect our subconscious fears and

desires. Tell about a time you had a very troubling or enlightening dream.

Narrative Write an essay convincing your best friend to try your

favorite brand of junk food.Persuasive

According to a Czechoslovakian proverb, “Better a lie that soothesthan a truth that hurts.” Do you agree? Why or why not? Use specific reasons and examples to explain your answer.

Persuasive

Were you paying attention? Discuss the events in the life of your favorite author,

sports figure, or performer. Explain how these events relate to the person’s achievements.

Expository There is a saying that you should be careful what you

wish for, because you just might get it. Describe a time when you wished for something and got it—and then wished you hadn’t.

Narrative Discuss how modern conveniences have changed

people’s lives. Expository