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Expository Writing

The Structure

+Expository Essay

This structure should look familiar to you:

1st paragraph: Introduction

2nd paragraph: Body Paragraph #1

3rd paragraph: Body Paragraph #2

4th paragraph: Body Paragraph #3

5th paragraph: Conclusion

+The Expository Paragraph

+Topic sentence

Summarizes the main idea of that paragraph. 1st sentence in a paragraph. Every paragraph should have a topic sentence. General not specific (not quotes or pieces of evidence)

+Supporting sentences

Introduce evidence/fact/reason. Explain why evidence/fact/reason means. Show why evidence/fact/reason supports the topic. Usually, 2-3 supporting sentences per paragraph.

+Closing sentence

Restates the topic sentence. Summarizes what has been said in a paragraph. Every paragraph has a closing sentence. DO NOT INTRODUCE NEW IDEAS OR EVIDENCE!

+Example of an expository paragraph

Topic sentenceSupporting sentences

Closing sentence

One of the many qualities of a good friend is loyalty. Loyalty is a strong feeling of support or allegiance. It asks friends to support one another and be faithful with the friendship no matter what happens. Loyalty is important quality in a good friend because it builds support and faithfulness.