Argumentative vs Expository Essays
Argumentative and expository essays are two of the most common types of essays that students are asked to write in school. However, many students are confused about the difference between the two types of essays.
In this article, we will explain the difference between argumentative and expository essays in a clear and concise way. We will also provide tips for writing each type of essay.
What is an Argumentative Essay?
An argumentative essay is a type of essay in which the writer takes a position on a topic and then supports that position with evidence and reasoning. The goal of an argumentative essay is to persuade the reader to agree with the writer's point of view.
Argumentative essays are typically structured as follows:
Introduction: The introduction states the topic of the essay and the writer's thesis statement. The thesis statement is a clear and concise statement of the writer's main argument.
Body paragraphs: Each body paragraph focuses on one main point that supports the thesis statement. Each body paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that states the main point of the paragraph. Then, provide evidence to support the topic sentence. Finally, conclude the paragraph by summarizing the main point and explaining how it relates to your thesis statement.
Conclusion: The conclusion restates the thesis statement and summarizes the main points of the essay. The writer may also want to end the conclusion with a call to action, urging the reader to agree with their position on the issue.
What is an Expository Essay?
An expository essay is a type of essay in which the writer explains a topic to the reader. The goal of an expository essay is to inform the reader, not to persuade them to agree with a particular point of view.
Expository essays are typically structured as follows:
Introduction: The introduction states the topic of the essay and provides some background information.
Body paragraphs: Each body paragraph focuses on one main aspect of the topic. Each body paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that states the main point of the paragraph. Then, provide information to support the topic sentence. This information may come from a variety of sources, such as books, articles, websites, and interviews. Finally, conclude the paragraph by summarizing the main point and explaining how it relates to the overall topic of the essay.
Conclusion: The conclusion summarizes the main points of the essay and leaves the reader with something to think about.
Similarities between Argumentative and Expository Essays
Argumentative essays and expository essays share some similarities. Both types of essays should be well-written and informative. They should also be well-organized and structured. Additionally, both types of essays should use evidence to support the writer's claims.
Differences between Argumentative and Expository Essays
The main difference between argumentative essays and expository essays is their purpose. Argumentative essays are meant to persuade the reader to agree with the writer's point of view, while expository essays are meant to inform the reader about a topic.
Another difference between the two types of essays is their structure. Argumentative essays typically have a clear thesis statement that the writer supports with evidence and reasoning. Expository essays, on the other hand, do not have a thesis statement. Instead, they focus on providing information about a topic in a clear and concise way.
Finally, argumentative essays and expository essays differ in the way they use evidence. Argumentative essays use evidence to support the writer's thesis statement. Expository essays, on the other hand, use evidence to explain the topic of the essay.
Tips for Writing Argumentative Essays
Here are some tips for writing argumentative essays:
* Choose a topic that you are passionate about and that you have some knowledge about.
* Develop a clear and concise thesis statement.
* Support your thesis statement with evidence from credible sources.
* Organize your essay in a logical way.
* Address opposing viewpoints and refute them.
* Use clear and concise language.
* Revise and edit your essay carefully.
Tips for Writing Expository Essays
Here are some tips for writing expository essays:
* Choose a topic that you are interested in and that you have some knowledge about.
* Do your research to gather information about the topic.
* Organize your essay in a logical way.
* Present the information in a clear and concise way.
* Use evidence from credible sources to support your claims.
* Revise and edit your essay carefully.
In conclusion, argumentative essays and expository essays are two different types of essays with different purposes. However, both types of essays can be effective ways to communicate your ideas to others. By following the tips above, you can write informative and well-argued essays.