An expository text is a written expression that aims to inform and disseminate content on a particular topic. In general, expository texts are composed of objective information, which contain a series of data that are explained with precision.
For example, a fragment of expository text is: “It has been shown in numerous investigations that the practice of physical exercise has many health benefits, not only for the body, but also for the mind. These benefits include blood pressure regulation, increased physical stamina, reduced stress and increased self-esteem.”
In the previous example, it can be seen that the writer presents a series of data that inform the reader about the positive consequences of the practice of physical activity. Therefore, it is established that the purpose of expository texts is to provide readers with some new knowledge about a specific topic.
Expository texts often have detailed descriptions; however, they may also contain definitions and comparisons of concepts, as well as some examples.
Likewise, it is common to find them in magazines, newspapers and scientific articles, encyclopedias, web pages and in all kinds of manuals, such as in the instructions of a board game, in the elaboration of crafts or in cooking recipes.
In conclusion, it can be said that an expository text wants to teach something new to its potential readers, who approach the text to answer their questions about a particular topic. Furthermore, expository texts are very common and used in many areas, so their structure may vary according to the information they contain.
Features of expository texts
An expository text is characterized by:
– Inform readers
Expository texts seek to inform the reader or recipient. For this to happen efficiently, the text must be written clearly and precisely.
– Objectivity
Expository text is generally objective, as it usually does not present the writer’s views. For example: “Matter is the main component of all bodies and is subject to change. It can take all sorts of shapes and has physical properties that can be perceived through the senses. ”
– Establishes an unequal relationship between sender and recipient
Within expository texts, the writer has knowledge that the receiver (or reader) does not know; the sender’s duty is to instruct the receiver on a certain matter. So it’s an unequal relationship as the recipient ignores information that the sender knows.
– Use language and structure that vary depending on the audience
The structure of the expository texts is not rigorous; This is because it will depend on the audience to whom the information is directed. It occurs in a similar way with language, as it can vary according to the type of reader.
The following is an example of an expository text aimed at children: “Syllables are a set of sounds that can be pronounced in a single voice”. Instead, this is how the same information would be presented, but addressed to a more adult audience: “A syllable is a phonological division that occurs between the release of air and the emission of the voice”.
As can be seen, information aimed at a child audience has simpler language, while content aimed at an adult audience is more complex.
Structure of the expository text (parts)
In general, an expository text follows the typical introduction-development-conclusion structure. However, some authors propose that this type of text can also have the following parts:
– Question
Expository texts originate from a problem or issue to be resolved. For example: how did life originate on earth? How do you prepare a sponge cake? What is expository text?
– Resolution
An expository text begins with the answer to the question asked by the reader. For example:
How did life originate on earth? Resolution: “Three-quarters of the Earth’s surface is covered in water, which is why life began in water. As the mechanisms of living things became more complex, they moved to land but kept water as the main component of their bodies. ”
– Conclusions
After answering the doubt or question, expository texts can end with a conclusion that includes the main ideas of the exposed content.
Continuing with the previous example, the conclusion can be as follows: “Earth is a planet bathed in water, which is what makes it so special. Therefore, water on our planet is synonymous with life. ”
Types of expository texts
There are several types of expository texts:
– According to its content
According to the content, the expository texts are classified into:
disclosures
They are those whose content is targeted to a large number of people. Its language is simple and does not require prior knowledge for its understanding. An example of informational text might be an encyclopedia.
Skilled
Specialized expository texts have content aimed at a specific group of people and therefore require prior knowledge. This is especially true of scientific texts or any more advanced university research.
– According to the way of presenting the information
Expository texts can also be classified according to the way they organize information:
Definition – Description
They are those who present information descriptively through definitions and concepts. For example: “Photosynthesis is a chemical process that occurs in plants, which allows them to transform inorganic matter into organic matter from sunlight.”
Typology – classification
In this case, the information is presented from classifications. For example: “Animals can be classified as vertebrates (such as birds, fish, reptiles and mammals) or invertebrates (such as insects, jellyfish or snails); They are also classified into mammals (like humans, bears, dolphins and cats) or oviparous (like birds and fish). ”
Question answer
It is one of the most used classifications, especially on web pages. It’s about starting the text with a question.
For example: “What are the most nutritious foods? Nutritious foods are those that contain a high concentration of nutrients in their chemical composition. Among the most important are eggs, blue fish, nuts and spinach.”
Differences – Similarities
They are those who put information into comparisons between concepts that may be different or similar. For example: “Soft waters are those that do not have minerals and are therefore not considered suitable for human consumption. On the other hand, hard waters contain many minerals such as magnesium and calcium; these are suitable for human consumption. ”
Examples of expository texts
Below are some examples of expository texts:
– Basic pet care
Having a pet is a source of joy and satisfaction for many people, however, bringing a pet home also entails a lot of responsibilities and attention. If all these responsibilities are fulfilled, the health and well-being of our pets will be guaranteed. To achieve this, it is necessary to take into account the following:
– The feeding. Like humans, animals must maintain a balanced diet that keeps them healthy and strong. Veterinarians recommend a diet based on dry foods, avoiding raw foods and some snacks for humans that are not suitable for pets (such as chocolate).
– hygiene . To maintain the health of our pets, it is necessary to monitor their hygiene. Specialists guarantee that the baths are carried out at least before a month; You should also brush the coat and cut the nails (if you have cats or dogs).
– How to create a web page?
Currently, one of the most effective ways to promote artistic talent, products, services or companies is through a website. To create it, it is recommended to follow these steps:
– Set the main theme of the site.
– Purchase a domain for web pages.
– Purchase a hosting service.
– Select a platform that allows you to create and design the web page.
– Start publishing content.
– What are the differences between football and American football?
Although in Spanish these two sports are given the same name, in reality they are quite different in many ways. They stand out from them:
– The duration of the game: the football match lasts ninety minutes, separated in half with a fifteen-minute break. In contrast, football lasts about sixty minutes and has forty-second breaks.
– The uniform: soccer players wear simple clothes, consisting of shirts and shorts. On the other hand, in American football, players wear more complex clothing, which involves the use of shoulder pads and helmets.
– How to increase self-confidence
To be able to function successfully in any area of life (school, university, work, interpersonal relationships), people need to feel confident and self-confident. However, sometimes social pressure, stress or everyday worries inhibit the trust we all have inside.
To increase self-confidence, the following actions can be taken:
– Remember past successes . This will send signals of optimism to the brain and provide a sense of triumph, making the person more comfortable with their abilities.
– Interpret the nerves as something positive. While nerves can generate anxiety, they can also be used for motivation and enthusiasm; If the person learns to perceive it as a moment of adrenaline, he can use this feeling to his advantage.
– Surround yourself with people who make you grow and motivate you. The people chosen as a company are very important as they have a remarkable influence on our lives. For this reason, experts recommend choosing friends who motivate you and make you realize the good things that characterize you.
