An expository composition is a report that shares your knowledge or ideas about a topic with a reader. A multi-paragraph expository composition must have several paragraphs.
The expository composition that you are about to write will have five paragraphs. The first paragraph will introduce your composition's main idea. The second, third and fourth paragraphs will support the main idea. The fifth paragraph will bring your composition to an end by summarizing the points you have made.
A good expository composition is clearly written and interesting. The first paragraph is especially important for grabbing your reader's attention. In this composition, you are going to focus on writing a compelling first and final paragraph. Your first paragraph, also known as an Introduction, should command the reader's attention. It should state your main idea clearly and with style. Your final paragraph, also known as a Conclusion, should summarize your composition. It should be detailed and persuasive in arguing for your Main Idea.
ELA Standard 1.2
Before you write an expository composition,
Print the graphic organizer and use it to list arguments for and arguments against your thesis statement. Be sure to include evidence to support the arguments you list!
Now that you've made an outline for your expository composition, it's time to write a first draft! Use your outline to write one paragraph at a time. Each paragraph should contain a main idea, supporting sentences and a concluding sentence.
When you write the first paragraph, imagine that you are the President giving a speech. You want everyone to listen to what you are going to say. Write your main idea with as much force and clarity as you can. Write the first paragraph as though it is a dramatic speech that is going to make everyone sit up and listen. Avoid using long sentences and passive words. Short sentences and short, punchy words are often the best way to write a compelling introduction.
Use transitional words or phrases to show the connections between your paragraphs. Some transitional words you might use are: therefore, as a result, because of this and in conclusion.
When you write the final paragraph, summarize your argument in a detailed way. Try to discuss your main idea in light of the evidence you have presented in your middle paragraphs. This should be a more complicated discussion of the topic than you gave in the first paragraph. Make sure your final sentence leaves the reader with a firm message about what you have been trying to communicate.
Don't worry about any spelling or grammar mistakes. Since this is a first draft, you don't even need to make sure that your handwriting is neat!
Look at the sample letter to the editor to see where all the parts of the letter go.
Read your expository composition. You might even read it aloud to a friend or teacher. You and your friend or teacher should decide:
Rewrite your expository composition so that it fully answers these questions.
You should also edit your work by checking your spelling and punctuation. Look up any words that you are unsure of in the dictionary.
Now copy out the final version of your expository composition in your best handwriting or print it out on a computer. Read through your final draft twice. The first time, check that the story is exactly the way you want it. (If it isn't, go back and make more changes.) If you like your final draft, check that there are no spelling or punctuation errors. Be sure to put your name, the date and title on the first page. Now, you can share your story with your friends!