What is an Expository Essay?

An informative piece of writing that requires students to

investigate an idea, set forth an argument, and provide
evidence to back up their view. Descriptions, interesting
examples, and vivid words should provide a focused
insight on the topic at hand in a unique way.
Please title your paper at the very top Expository Essay Introduction
AND copy the definition on the top line of your paper.

3 types of Paragraphs included in an

Excellent Expository Essay are. . .
1) Introduction
2) Body Paragraph(s)
3) Conclusion
Divide the rest of your paper into thirds and label each
section with a type of paragraph. Take detailed notes on
what each represents, the length, and what information
each includes.

Take great Notes!

1) The introduction paragraph is like the string of the

bracelet since the essay would not hold together
without a proper introduction
2) Body paragraphs are
like beads that add
dazzle and flair
3) The concluding
paragraph ties it all up, like
a knot secures a bracelet

The String

1) The Introduction
The introductory
paragraph
consists of 2-3
sentences.

*Sentence 1-2 are the Hook (a fascinating fact,

description, brief story, or question to capture the
readers attention)
*The last sentence of this paragraph is a Thesis Statement
(Provides a direct opinion on the prompt and gives
direction to the paper)

Prompt
UUUsed
Read the following quotation:
I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters
to create many ripples
~Mother Teresa
Think carefully about the following statement:
A community is composed of varying degrees of helpers, educators, providers, and
the occasional negative influence.
Write an essay explaining the importance of being a positive part of a community.
Be sure to:
clearly state your thesis
organize and develop your ideas effectively
choose your words carefully
edit your writing for grammar, mechanics, and spelling

Hook

Thesis

Introduction

A slum reeks of filth; inconsiderate

citizens in the awful part of town toss
litter on the ground and hate helping those
around them, but next to the slum blooms a
great suburb of cleanliness and kindness.
Smart people take notice of the
difference. Vital reasons for people to
remain a significant and helpful part of
their community include creating the best
environment for their children to grow in
and building up the less fortunate in that
community.

Notes!
Take Great

The Body Paragraph should be 4-6 sentences long

*Sentence 1 (Topic Sentence) should be a broad idea
of what example you will write about the rest of your
paragraph. It must directly tie to the thesis.
*Sentence 2-5 thoroughly explain a
The beads
specific example that backs up your
to add color
thesis. Vivid description of one person,
event, or circumstance that you know
about should fully paint the picture of your thesis.

Ideas for Your Body Paragraph Examples

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Make your own HELP chart on the back of your notes.

H
List
Historical
events
you know
a lot of
details
about

E
List Current
events in the
news and
events around
you that you
know a lot of
details about

L
List books,
stories, and
poems you
know a lot of
details about

P
List Pop
culture ideas
such as sports
figures, movie
stars, singers,
and popular
movies you
know a lot of
details about

(uses an example from Pop Culture)

Specific Example

Both everyday people and celebrities put time and effort into
their community to make it a better place for their own
children. For instance, shortly after the school shooting
tragedy in Connecticut, JJ Watt discovered that some Sandy
Hook Elementary students came to Houstons Reliant Stadium.
He welcomed the out-of-town visitors onto the field after the
game to throw the ball and pass on signed memorabilia to
them. The NFL star displayed sympathy and encouragement in
his hometown community. This news spread across TV
programs and papers so that one day his children may even
read about the kind man JJ Watt was in his Houston area.

Topic Sentence

Body Paragraph 1 Example

(uses an example from Literature)

Specific Example

Secondly, even mythological characters build up those who are

less fortunate in their community to maintain a safe place.
Perseus, a story from Hamiltons book on mythology, shows
how Zeus human son helps the helpless in his land. Since
Perseus earns the help of Athena, he slays Medusa so her evil
ways cease to harm more innocent people. The half-god also
slices off the head of a sea snake in order to save a woman he
loves who had been chained. Perseus is a brave and significant
part his surrounding community. Iit pays off for those in
danger around him.

Topic Sentence

Body Paragraph 2 Example

The Conclusion
Paragraph. . .

The end

The knot that

wraps it all
up

*The most important thing to do in a

conclusion is to restate (rephrase) your
thesis sentence in new words.
*If you have time and space left, close it all
up with a powerful comment.

The Conclusion Paragraph. . .

Rephrased Thesis
Closing
Thought

While Perseus and JJ Watt exist

in different universes, both set
examples of being a positive part of
their community in order to help
future children and raise up the
powerless. Imagine if they unite
forces!

The end

A slum reeks of filth, and

inconsiderate citizens in the awful part
of town toss litter on the ground and
hate helping those around them. Next
to the slum blooms a great suburb of
cleanliness and kindness. Smart people
take notice of the difference. Vital
reasons for people to remain a
significant and helpful part of their
community include creating the best
environment for their children to grow
in and building up the less fortunate in
that community.
Both everyday people and
celebrities put time and effort into
their community to make it a better
place for their own children. For
instance, shortly after the school
shooting tragedy in Connecticut, JJ
Watt discovered that some Sandy
Hook Elementary students came to
Houstons Reliant Stadium. He welcomed
the out-of-town visitors onto the field

All
Together
Now!