ESSAY 2 – EXPOSITORY WRITING
Expository writing is a type of discourse that is used to explain, describe, give
information or inform. The expository text writer cannot assume that the reader has
previous knowledge or previous understanding of the topic discussed. One important
point for the author to keep in mind is trying to use words that clearly show what he/she
is talking about rather than blatantly telling the reader what is being discussed. 1
Pattern
Description
Description
The author describes a topic by listing
characteristics, features, and examples
Cue Words
for example,
characteristics are
Sequence
The author lists items or events in numerical or
chronological order.
first, second, third;
next; then; finally
Comparison
The author explains how two or more things are
alike and/or how they are different.
different; in contrast;
alike; same as; on the
other hand
Cause and
Effect
The author lists one or more causes and the
resulting effect or effects.
reasons why; if...then;
as a result; therefore;
because
Problem and
Solution
The author states a problem and lists one or
problem is; dilemma
more solutions for the problem. A variation of
is; puzzle is solved;
this pattern is the question- and-answer format in question... answer
which the author poses a question and then
answers it.
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Chart adapted by Gina G. Palmer from original materials created by Stanford University Writing Lab.
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