Expository writing Notes
1. Varieties of Sentences
Varieties of sentences are important because they help us understand how language works and how meaning is communicated. Understanding different types of sentences allows writers to convey ideas clearly and effectively. It is essential to master sentence variety to improve both writing and communication skills.
Linguistics and Linguistics Field
- Linguist: An expert in the study of language.
- Linguistics: The scientific study of language—its structure, use, and meaning.
2. Sentence Structure
There are four main types of sentence structures in English grammar:
- Simple Sentences
- Compound Sentences
- Complex Sentences
- Compound-Complex Sentences
Each type is based on the number and kind of clauses it contains.
3. Clauses
A clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a predicate (verb).
Types of Clauses:
1. Independent Clause:
- Can stand alone as a complete sentence.
- It has a subject and a predicate and expresses a complete thought.
2. Dependent Clause:
- Cannot stand alone.
- It depends on an independent clause to make sense.
- Begins with a subordinating conjunction (such as because, although, when, if, etc.).
4. Types of Sentences
a. Simple Sentences
A simple sentence contains one independent clause with a subject and a predicate.
- It expresses a complete thought and does not need support from any other clause.
- It may contain a compound subject or a compound verb.
Example Focus:
- Compound Subject: When the sentence focuses on more than one subject.
- Compound Verb: When the sentence focuses on more than one verb.
Examples:
- She reads books. (simple)
- She and her friend read books. (compound subject)
- She reads and writes books. (compound verb)
b. Compound Sentences
A compound sentence contains at least two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) or a semicolon.
Characteristics:
- Must have at least two independent clauses.
- The clauses are connected through a coordinating conjunction or a semicolon.
Examples:
- I was tired, but I finished my work.
- She studied hard; she topped the exam.
c. Complex Sentences
A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.
Dependent clauses are introduced by subordinating conjunctions such as:
- Time: when, while, after, before
- Cause and Effect: because, since, provided that
- Condition: if, unless, provided that
- Contrast: although, even though, whereas
- Comparison: as, just as, than
Note: When the dependent clause comes first, a comma is used before the independent clause.
Examples:
- Because it was tough, we left the game in the middle. (comma used)
- We left the game in the middle because it was tough. (no comma)
- Although he was injured, he kept playing football.
d. Compound-Complex Sentences
A compound-complex sentence combines elements of both compound and complex sentences. It contains at least two independent clauses and one or more dependent clauses.
Examples:
- Although he was injured, he kept playing football and won the game.
- Can be connected using both coordinating and subordinating conjunctions.
5. Expository Writing
Expository writing is a type of writing that aims to explain, describe, or inform about a particular idea, topic, or concept.
Key Features:
- Explains a topic logically and clearly.
- Provides facts, examples, evidence, or statistics.
- Follows a step-by-step or logical structure.
- Common in news articles, essays, textbooks, and reports.
Purpose:
To expose or explain ideas, not to express personal opinions.
Types of Expository Writing:
- Compare and contrast
- Step-by-step guidelines or process writing
- Textbook or factual writing
- Essays
- Classification
- Problem-solving
6. Types of Writing
There are four main types of writing, each with its own specific goal:
- Descriptive Writing:
- Describes a person, place, or thing.
- Creates imagery using the five senses (touch, smell, taste, sight, hearing).
- Example: “Try to describe” or “Try to create an image.”
- Narrative Writing:
- Tells or narrates a story or event.
- Example: “To narrate something.”
- Persuasive Writing:
- Aims to convince the reader to accept an opinion or idea.
- Example: “Tries to convince the reader.”
- Expository Writing:
- Objective and factual.
- Introduces and explains a point or idea clearly.
7. Academic Writing
Definition:
Academic writing is a formal style of writing used in educational or scholarly contexts. It is often used in assignments, research papers, and theses.
Key Characteristics:
- Based on facts and objectivity.
- Logical and well-organized.
- Avoids personal opinions and emotional language.
- Written in clear, concise, and precise language.
- Follows a specific format and academic conventions.
- Avoids verbosity (unnecessary words).
Language & Style:
- Uses simple, direct, and formal language.
- Focuses on clarity and accuracy.
- No vague or unclear points.
8. Paragraph Writing
A paragraph is a group of sentences that work together to express a single idea. It is the building block of academic writing.
Key Features:
- Focuses on one main idea.
- Follows certain rules of organization and unity.
- An academic paragraph usually contains 4 to 8 sentences.
Topic Sentence:
- The first sentence of a paragraph that presents the main idea.
- Acts as the title or focus of the paragraph.
- Can be supported with facts, quotes, definitions, or questions.
Development of a Paragraph:
- Involves adding supporting ideas and examples.
- Must maintain unity (all sentences relate to the topic) and coherence (logical connection of ideas).
Unity and Coherence:
- Unity: Each idea must support the main topic.
- Coherence: Flow of writing should be logical and well-connected.
Paragraphs in an Essay
There is no fixed number of paragraphs in an essay, but in academic institutions, a five-paragraph essay structure is common.
Essay Structure:
- Introductory Paragraph – introduces the topic and thesis statement.
- Three Main Body Paragraphs – develop the ideas or arguments.
- Concluding Paragraph – summarizes and closes the discussion.
Note: Avoid using short forms in academic writing.