Topci 12: Expository Texts

Definition

Purpose = inform and describe (extend knowledge)   Aim = clarify and provide information (needs research)   Uses facts and details opinions and examples

Characteristics

Language = precise, objective and focused on the subject Organisation = paragraphs thematic progression (introduction / development / conclusion) topic sentence Shared Knowledge - consider age, education and context Information offered - attention must be paid to vocabulary point of departure method of exposition - definition comparison example

Structure

Description = list characteristics and features Sequence = list items or events numerical chronological Comparison and contrast = list similarities and differences Cause and effect = why something happened and results Problem and solution Pro-con = list positive and negative effects

Methods

Definition Logical (A = B - C) Rhetorical (more elaborated and may include examples) Classification and division = arrangements of ideas Classification = several items into groups Division = one item into parts Example = Illustration (concrete detail / sense of participation) Comparison and contrast - analogy, simile, metaphor Cause and effect = Analysis - reasons and consequences Process analysis - answers how

Teaching strategies

(Tompkins, 1998) Introduce organisational pattern Give students opportunities to work on texts Invite students to write paragraphs using the patterns