What is Expository Text?
Definition:
- A type of writing that explains, describes, or informs about a topic
- Based on facts, not opinions
- Comes from the Latin word exponere — “to set forth” or “to explain”
Key Idea:
It answers questions like what, why, and how — not what should you think.
Purpose of Expository Text
- To inform the reader with factual information
- To explain a process, concept, or idea
- To clarify a topic the reader may not understand
- To expand knowledge without persuasion
Note: Unlike persuasive text, it does not try to change the reader’s opinion.
Characteristics
- ✅ Factual — grounded in truth and evidence
- ✅ Objective — no personal bias
- ✅ Clear and direct — simple, straightforward language
- ✅ Supported by data — statistics, examples, sources
- ✅ Systematically organized — logical flow
Types of Expository Text
1.Definition — explains what something is
2.Process — explains how something works (step-by-step)
3.Cause & Effect — explains why something happens
4.Classification — groups items into categories
5.Comparison — compares two or more things
6.Illustration — uses examples to explain
Example
Sample Paragraph:
“Water is a chemical compound made of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom (H₂O). At room temperature, it is a colorless liquid. Water boils at 100°C and freezes at 0°C. About 71% of Earth’s surface is covered by water.”
Why it’s expository:
- Purely factual ✅
- No opinion or persuasion ✅
- Clear, informative language ✅
