The expository essay is a genre of essay that requires the student to investigate an idea, evaluate evidence, expound on the idea, and set forth an argument concerning that idea in a clear and concise manner. This can be accomplished through comparison and contrast, definition, example, the analysis of cause and effect, etc.
The structure of the expository essay is held together by the following.
- A clear, concise, and defined thesis statement that occurs in the first paragraph of the essay: It is essential that this thesis statement be appropriately narrowed to follow the guidelines set forth in the assignment. If the student does not master this portion of the essay, it will be quite difficult to compose an effective or persuasive essay.
- Clear and logical transitions between the introduction, body, and conclusion: Transitions are the mortar that holds the foundation of the essay together. Without logical progression of thought, the reader is unable to follow the essay’s argument, and the structure will collapse.
- Body paragraphs that include evidential support: Each paragraph should be limited to the exposition of one general idea. This will allow for clarity and direction throughout the essay. What is more, such conciseness creates an ease of readability for one’s audience. It is important to note that each paragraph in the body of the essay must have some logical connection to the thesis statement in the opening paragraph.
- Evidential support (whether factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal): Often times, students are required to write expository essays with little or no preparation; therefore, such essays do not typically allow for a great deal of statistical or factual evidence.
- A bit of creativity!: Though creativity and artfulness are not always associated with essay writing, it is an art form nonetheless. Try not to get stuck on the formulaic nature of expository writing at the expense of writing something interesting. Remember, though you may not be crafting the next great novel, you are attempting to leave a lasting impression on the people evaluating your essay.
- A conclusion that does not simply restate the thesis, but readdresses it in light of the evidence provided: It is at this point of the essay that students will inevitably begin to struggle. This is the portion of the essay that will leave the most immediate impression on the mind of the reader. Therefore, it must be effective and logical. Do not introduce any new information into the conclusion; rather, synthesize and come to a conclusion concerning the information presented in the body of the essay.
Types of Expository Essay
1. Cause and Effect Essays:
Such essays delve into the reasons that cause something and then, discuss its results or effects. They are the most popular types of academic essays. Types of Expository essay writing examples that come under this category are:
- Discuss the causes of deterioration of Murray-Darling Basin and its effects on Australian economy. (Covers both CAUSES and EFFECTS)
- 5 Main Causes of Dementia (Delves only into the CAUSES)
- Why are oil spills a serious threat to marine environment? (Discuses only the EFFECTS)
2. Problem and Solution Essays:
Problem-solution essays are a popular type for short essays and subject exams. They consider all the problems related a particular situation or topic, and suggest solutions to those problems. It usually has four components – Situation, Problem, Solution, and Evaluation.
The SITUATION is often stated in the essay prompt and you may touch upon it in the INTRODUCTION. EVALUATION can be a part of the CONCLUSION of your expository essay or may be omitted altogether in shorter essays.
Types of Expository essay writing examples that come under this category might include situations like:
- Junk food is causing lifestyle diseases. How to avoid it?
- Bullying in schools should be stopped immediately. Discuss.
- Refugees should be accepted with restrictions. Is it necessary?
3. Classification Essays:
In Classification essays, we sort out things into different categories on the basis of predefined criteria for each category. Each category in which we put things should have features unique to it and ideally, should not overlap with other categories.
Such essays can be very useful when we are trying to study unique features of certain set of things in a specialized subject area.
4. Comparison or Contrast Essays:
Compare-and-contrast essays are often assigned to students to gauge their understanding about a subject. It is possible that in shorter essays, you might be required to discuss just similarities or differences between two topics.
5. Definition Essays:
Definition essays seem simple but they are not. They have to be thorough and are often quite lengthy. When you choose to DEFINE a word, be sure to choose something on which you can get lots of information easily.
To add depth to your definition essay, you can discuss about the word‘s history and origins, and add your own perspective to it. Words that are disputable or controversial are good for writing definition essays.
6. Process Essays:
The process essay is, in simple terms, a HOW-TO essay. This type of paper serves to inform the reader on how something is done, i.e. teach him the steps for reaching a certain goal. The goal can be everything – starting from how something is built or manufactured, to how you cook a delicious meal.
A proper process essay should serve to lead its reader through the task and ensure certain success. In most cases, it is used to inform people who are new or inexperienced in the task.
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Notes prepared/compiled by Madam Sonam Yuden, who is an English teacher in Changangkha Middle Secondary School, Thimphu Thromde. She is also a published author of Children's book in Bhutan.
Authorized usage for educational purposes only.
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Notes prepared/compiled by Madam Sonam Yuden, who is an English teacher in Changangkha Middle Secondary School, Thimphu Thromde. She is also a published author of Children's book in Bhutan.
Authorized usage for educational purposes only.