Expository Modes of Writing

Information adapted from Strategies for Successful Writing

Cause and Effect Essay

Examines the causes leading up to an event

OR Examines the effects of an event Sometimes both methods may be

combined. Example Cause/Effect Topic: Who/what is

responsible for the deaths of Romeo and Juliet.

Argumentative/Persuasive

To present, support, or defend a position on an issue.

 Use evidence/facts from outside sources

Descriptive Essay

Describes a person, place, or thing through sensory description and a specific spatial order. Example: the first essay you did for my class

was a descriptive essay describing a place and developing a certain mood through word choice.

Process Evaluation Essay

Describing a process through a sequence of events. Example: an essay on how to assemble a

BMW motor.

Classification Essay

Categorizing something/someone into different categories while also looking at distinguishing features. Example: An essay on three different types

of shoppers while looking at distinguishing features such as where they shop and what they buy.

Comparison/Contrast Essay

Comparison between 2 items to show they are alike and different by examining points of contrast.

Two methods: point by point OR block format Example: Comp/cont assignment on “I Have a

Dream” and “Women”

Definition Essay

To discuss, in a thoughtful manner, what an abstract term means and does not mean through methods of negation (saying what it is not), illustration, and comparison.

Brainstorm w/ elbow partner

Jot down ideas of what love is; how would you define love?

Definition Essay Continued

In this essay, you are moving beyond the denotation and exploring the connotation through your comparison, negation, and other discussions.

Survey Data

You are going to create a survey to give to 10 adults and 10 teenagers with questions on love

Distinguishing Features

What are some features of true love?

Comparison to another culture

Compare some aspect of love in American culture to another culture Dating rituals Marriage rituals

Definition by Negation

What true love is NOT

Process

Some of your survey questions should address this:

How does one find true love? Discuss the process of finding true love

Definition Essay continued.

Analogy: comparing an abstract concept to something concrete. Morals to a compass.

Definition Essay: Grabbers

Use your dictionary definition. Use your analogy Discuss opposing definitions