6.1 What is an Expository paragraph
What is an Expository Paragraph?
An expository paragraph is a type of writing that aims to explain, inform, or present facts about a topic. Think of it as a mini-report on one specific idea.
Expository means "to expose" or "to set forth."
Its main goal is to make the topic easy for the reader to understand.
It is driven by a single topic sentence that states the main idea. The rest of the paragraph gives details, facts, or examples to support it.
What are Comparison and Contrast?
Comparison and contrast are basic thinking skills we use every day. In writing, they are tools to help you explain a topic by looking at its relationship with another topic.
Comparison means looking for similarities between two or more things.
Example: Comparing a smartphone to a tablet—they both use a touchscreen, run apps, and connect to the internet.
Contrast means looking for differences between two or more things.
Example: Contrasting a smartphone and a tablet—a smartphone is smaller and designed for phone calls, while a tablet is larger and better for reading or watching videos.
Why Use Comparison and Contrast in an Expository Paragraph?
Using comparison and contrast makes your explanations much stronger and more interesting!
It clarifies complex topics. By showing what something is like (comparison) or what it is not like (contrast), you build a clearer picture for the reader.
It helps in evaluation. You can show which of two things is better, more effective, or more suitable for a specific purpose.
It organizes your thoughts. It gives you a clear structure to follow when deciding what information to include.
Pointers for Getting Started
When you start planning a comparison/contrast paragraph, keep these simple steps in mind:
Choose Two Items: Make sure the two things you select are related enough to be compared, but different enough to be contrasted. (e.g., Don't compare a banana and a car; compare a car and a truck).
Determine Your Purpose: Decide whether you want to focus more on similarities or more on differences. Your topic sentence should hint at this focus.
Identify Key Points: Pick three to four specific features or points that you will use to compare and contrast both items. (e.g., if comparing a car and a truck, use points like fuel efficiency, cargo space, and maneuverability).
Example of a Comparison and Contrast Focus
| Focus | Main Goal | Example Topic Sentence |
| Comparison | To show the shared characteristics and how two things are alike. | While seemingly different, both online and in-person learning require a high degree of self-discipline to be successful. |
| Contrast | To highlight the unique features and how two things differ. | The distinct differences in cost, convenience, and interaction make e-readers a powerful alternative to traditional physical books. |