What You Need to Know

Key Concept Diagram

Expository texts present information objectively; they avoid personal opinion and rely on facts, data, definitions, and explanation

The structure is typically: introduction (topic and overview), body paragraphs (aspects of the topic), conclusion (summary)

Formal register, third-person perspective, and precise vocabulary appropriate to the topic are hallmarks of expository writing

Hedging language ("research suggests", "evidence indicates") is used to qualify claims and maintain credibility

Key Vocabulary

Expository text

A text that explains or informs, presenting facts and details about a topic in an objective, organised way

Register

The level of formality of language chosen to match the purpose, audience, and context of a text

Hedging

Language that qualifies or softens claims to avoid overstating certainty (e.g., "may", "tends to", "suggests")

Technical vocabulary

Specialised terms related to a specific field or subject, used to convey precise meaning

Knowledge Check

Select the correct answer for each question. Click "Check Answer" to see if you are right.

Question 1

Which of the following sentences is most appropriate for a formal expository text about climate change?

I think global warming is really bad and everyone should be worried. Climate change is the worst thing that has happened to the planet. Global temperatures have risen by approximately 1.1°C since the pre-industrial period, according to the IPCC. You need to understand that climate change is a huge problem.

Question 2

What is the purpose of hedging language in an expository text?

To make the writing more entertaining To introduce personal opinions To persuade the reader to agree with the writer To avoid committing to claims that cannot be definitively proven

Question 3

Which text structure is most appropriate for an expository report explaining the water cycle?

Introduction → Body (stages of the cycle) → Conclusion Orientation → Complication → Resolution Problem → Complication → Resolution Thesis → Arguments → Rebuttal

Writing to Inform: Expository Texts