The academic expository essay is a genre of essay that requires the student to investigate an idea, evaluate evidence, talk about the idea, and present an argument concerning that idea in a clear and concise manner. This can be accomplished through: 1. Cause and effect 2. Comparison and contrast 3. Argumentation and various other genres.
Please note: Academic essays of cause and effect, comparison and contrast and argumentation are commonly assigned as a tool for classroom evaluation and is often found in various exam formats.
The Five-Paragraph Essay
A common method for writing an academic expository essay is the five-paragraph approach. This is, however, not the only formula for but many find that it is the most straightforward. This five-paragraph method typically consists of: 1. an introductory paragraph 2. three evidentiary body paragraphs 3. a conclusion
The structure of the academic expository essay is held together by the following: i) A clear, concise, and defined thesis statement that occurs in the first paragraph of the essay.
It is essential that this thesis statement be appropriately narrowed to follow the guidelines set forth in the assignment. If the student does not master this portion of the essay, it will be quite difficult to compose an effective essay.
ii) Clear and logical transitions between the introduction, body, and conclusion.
Transitions are the ‘glue’ that holds the foundation of the essay together. Without logical progression of thought, the reader is unable to follow the essay’s argument, and the structure will collapse.
iii) Body paragraphs that include evidential support.
Each paragraph should be limited to the exposition of one general idea. This will allow for clarity and direction throughout the essay. What is more, such conciseness creates an ease of readability for one’s audience. It is important to note that each paragraph in the body of the essay