Copyright 2006 Washington OSPI.         All rights reserved.
Expository vs. Persuasion
nExpository writing
¨has a narrow topic.
¨stays focused on the main ideas.
¨is elaborated using reasons, well-chosen and specific details, examples, and/or anecdotes to support ideas.
¨includes information that is interesting, thoughtful, and necessary for the audience.
¨is organized with an introduction, supporting paragraphs with main points and elaboration, and an effective conclusion.
¨uses transitions to connect ideas.
¨shows commitment to topic with voice and language appropriate for audience and purpose.
¨uses specific words and phrases that help the reader understand ideas.
Some students are not certain about the differences between persuasive writing and expository writing. Another hurdle many students have to overcome is the difference between argumentation and persuasion.  Discuss the slide with your students.

Argumentation presents two sides of a case so that both sides may be considered while persuasion intentionally emphasizes one position over another with the goal to influence the reader.