What Is the Meaning of an Expository Essay?
Communication arts curriculum often includes the study and composition of several different types of essays. This includes an expository essay. Expository essays, also referred to as informative essays, are written with the intent to inform or explain. An expository essay is written with a specific audience in mind and includes information about a specific topic.
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Identifying Purpose
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An expository essay is written with an objective in mind. This objective is to inform a specific audience about a particular topic that is written for a certain audience. The audience will be dependent upon the topic. For example, an expository essay written about different vacation destinations might be written for an audience of readers who enjoy traveling.
Introduction
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An expository essay must include a powerful introduction. The introduction of the essay should grab the audience's attention and make them gain more interest in reading the essay. A powerful introduction could begin with an anecdote that relates to the topic or it could include a posed question that sets the tone for the essay. Finally, the introduction of an expository essay should include a main idea.
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Body
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An expository essay must also include specific reasons or details associated with the topic. This is referred to as the body of the essay. The body of the expository essay elaborates on what is being discussed. This might include important facts, supportive examples, further explanations of a particular concept and any other distinct details.
Conclusion
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The conclusion of an expository essay helps bridge a connection between the main idea of the essay and the body of the essay. It can restate what has previously been discussed, in a summary format.
Considerations
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Expository essays can be practiced throughout the school year and can be adapted to accommodate the subject matter and grade level. Not only can expository essays be written in a Communication Arts classroom, but they can be beneficial to any subject matter where the instructor wants the student to show his understanding of a particular topic.
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References
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