What is an Expository Essay?

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What is an Expository Essay?

• An expository essay

• requires the student to investigate an idea

• evaluate evidence

• expound on the idea

• and/or set forth an argument

• definition, cause and effect,comparison and
  contrast, etc.

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What Do I Need In An Expository Essay?

• 1. A clear, concise thesis statement.
• 2. Clear and logical transitions between each
  section
• 3. Paragraphs that include evidential support

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Format of Your Essay

• Write in 3 parts.
• 1. In the first part, state what the topic
  actually means to you.
• 2. In the second part, give one or two examples
  to illustrate your ideas.
• 3. In the last part, bring what you have written
  to a natural conclusion or summary.

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What Kind of Expository Essay Are We Writing
Today?

• Definition
• Definition
• Definition!

5
What is a Definition Essay?

• A definition essay is writing that explains what
  a term means. Some terms have definite, concrete
  meanings, such as glass, book or tree. Terms such
  as honesty, honor or love are abstract and depend
  more on a person's point of view.

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Three Steps to an Effective Definition Essay

• 1. Tell the readers what term is being defined.
• 2. Present clear and basic information
• 3. Use facts, examples, or anecdotes that readers
  will understand.

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Choosing a Definition

• 1. Choose a Definition
• If you have the opportunity to use a dictionary,
  choose the definition you like best.
• If you may not use a dictionary, consider what
  the topic/ word means to you.
• 2. Explain the term in your own words!
• Do not copy directly from a dictionary.
• 3. Limit Your Term
• Many definitions are too broad for a 1 paragraph
  essay. Consider just one aspect of your topic in
  order to make a narrow and specific definition.

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Thesis Statement of a Definition Essay

• The thesis statement (or topic sentence) usually
  identifies the term being defined and provides a
  brief, basic definition.

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How to Write an Effective Definition

• Choose 1 of the following
• Define by function
• Define by structure
• Define by analyses
• Define by what the term does not mean