Mastering Expository and Argumentative Writing Structures

Expository Text: Definition and Structure

Characteristics of Expository Writing

• The text aims to disclose or explain a particular subject.
• The information provided must be:
  • Clear (*Clara*)
  • Necessary (*Necesaria*)
  • Simple and Rigorous (*Sencilla y Rigurosa*)
• Should follow a logical order, adhering to the standard structure:

• Introduction
  • Development
  • Conclusion
• A specific lexicon related to the subject being discussed must be used.
• In many cases, the text is illustrated with charts, drawings, and diagrams to enhance understanding.
• The established structure must be followed consistently.

Expository Text Preparation

Preparing for an Exposition: Essential Steps

To prepare an expository text, the following steps must be followed:

1. Choose a theme and a suitable title.
2. Document the topic: collect necessary information.
3. Organize and select the most important points.
4. Write a brief outline as a structural guide.
5. Develop the topic following the standard structure:
   • Introduction
   • Development
   • Conclusion
6. Reread the entire text to correct any errors.

Expository Text: Special Features

Linguistic Features of Expository Texts

• Dominance of the indicative mood, mainly using present tenses and past tenses (imperfect and simple present perfect).
• Use of specifying adjectives (e.g., living).
• Use of impersonal sentences (e.g., "it is noted," "it was considered").
• Use of explanatory sentences and examples to clarify content.
• Use of descriptions and enumerations.
• Presentation of specific data (statistics, inventories, graphics).

Argumentative Text: Purpose and Techniques

Aim: Defending a Thesis

The goal is to defend an idea (the thesis) by reasoning through arguments.

The argument should follow a logical sequence, including the thesis or main idea that holds our view, and plot development to confirm or refute the thesis.

The arguments supporting the thesis must have substance and be respectful. You must avoid personal attacks, scorn of opposing ideas, etc.

Steps for Constructing an Argument

1. Submit your opinion on the chosen topic.
2. Substantiate that opinion with specific reasons.
3. Write a conclusion.

Types of Arguments Used in Persuasion

• Personal Experience: Using an event to give the argument more credibility.
• Arguments of Authority: Citing the testimony of relevant people or using proverbs to justify an idea.
• Examples and Similarities: Presenting cases or topics closely related to what is being defended.
• Emotional Arguments: Those that appeal to the sensitivity of the public.
• Beliefs of the Majority: Arguments that appeal to ideas widely accepted by society.
• Empirical Arguments (Based on Evidence): Those based on observable evidence.
• Arguments Based on Quantity.
• Arguments Based on Quality.