Types of Expository Texts

Types of Expository Texts

1. Description

   • describe places, objects, people, and events
   • helps us see places and people in our mind's eye
   • selects details and uses words to communicate to the reader
   • think about how something looks or how you felt during a certain time and them come up with the details and put those details into words
   • use words like: for example, the characteristics are...

2. Temporal Sequence

   • describe a sequence of events over time
   • used to give driving directions
   • step-by-step instructions (e.g., recipe)
   • use words like: first, second, third; next; then; finally

3. Explanation

   • used to predict cause and effect or to explain the reasons for an event
   • can be composed as a series of questions
   • can provide comparison for day by day observations, which can base conclusions about cause and effect
   • use words like: because, reasons why; if...then; as a result; therefore;

4. Problem/Solution

   • use words like: the problem is; the dilemma is; puzzle is solved; question... answer
   • used to identify and analyze problems, pose solutions, and document results
   • can advertise, and through process they can "solve" a problem
   • can identify problems, document them through interactive writing, identify possible solutions, test those solutions, and come up with a conclusion

5. Definition

   • can offer definitions and explanations to clarify concepts and ideas.
   • can provide examples to make the meaning of a text clearer
   • record knowledge and explain procedures

6. Comparison/Contrast

   • use words like: different; in contrast; alike; same as; on the other hand
   • used to compare and contrast phenomena, characters, events, and texts.
   • students are encouraged to notice differences and similarities
   • through concrete experiences and the surrounding talk

7. Social Convention

   • writing is social in nature
   • we use writing everyday
   • we make lists, write messages, label things, make maps, etc.
   • it's important for children to notice written language and use it in their lives.