Writing the Expository Essay

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Writing the Expository Essay
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Expository EssaysIt is not enough to makeup
your verse of plain words. When writing an essay,
follow these eight basic steps
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1) Select a topicBe sure the topic is
narrow enough to make it manageable within the
space of an essay.
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2) Write a thesis sentenceBe sure the
thesis statement (or sentence) expresses a
controlling idea that is neither toobroad nor
too specific to be developed effectively.
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3) Select a method of developmentCheck
through all the methods before you finally settle
on the one which will best serve your thesis
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4) Organize the essayBegin by listing the
major divisions which the body paragraphs in your
essay will discuss then fill in the primary
supports that each body paragraph of the essay
will contain.
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5) Write topic sentences for the body paragraphs
of the essayFor each body paragraph, furnish a
topic sentence that directly relates to the
thesis sentence.
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6) Write the body paragraphs of the essayEach
body paragraph should develop the primary support
covered in that paragraph's topic sentence.
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7) Furnish a paragraph of introductionAn
introductory paragraph should state the thesis of
the essay, introduce the divisions in the body
paragraphs of the essay, gain the interest of the
reader.
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8) Write a paragraph of conclusionRestate the
thesis and divisions of the essay Bring the
essay to an appropriate and effective close.
Avoid digressing into new issues.
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Source Ida Masters Hollowell, James A.
Levernier, A. Franklin Parks, Structuring
Paragraphs A Guide to Effective Writing. 2nd ed.
New York St. Martin's, 1986