Explanatory/Exposition
What is the main purpose of an explanatory (expository) essay
To provide information and help the reader understand a concept, topic, or process.
Name four common writing types taught in high school
Exposition (explanatory), Description, Narration, Persuasion/Argument
What is another name for the main claim in an argumentative essay?
Claim (or thesis).
What is the "external desire" of a character usually called?
The Goal (or external desire).
In research writing, where does the thesis statement usually appear
In the introduction (often near the end of the intro).
In a compare-and-contrast essay, name two ways to organize your points.
Block (talk about whole one, then whole two) and point-by-point (switch back and forth).
Which type uses sensory details so the reader can picture things?
Description
Name two things strong argumentative writing needs to persuade readers.
A clear claim and strong evidence with reasons; also address counterarguments.
Give one example of an internal obstacle and one example of an external obstacle.
Internal: fear or self-doubt. External: a rival or money problems.
Name two key features that distinguish original research from a simple synthesis paper.
Original research includes an empirical method or data collection and reports new findings; synthesis combines existing sources to form a new interpretation without original data.
What does a problem-solution paper do?
It explains a problem and suggests or checks possible solutions.
Which type tells a story or a sequence of events?
Narration
What is a concession, and why is it useful?
A concession accepts an opposing point; it helps show fairness and makes your argument stronger
What shows a character's real growth at the climax?
The character realizes they must change inside to get what they really need.
When writing a synthesis paper, what is an important step after gathering multiple sources to make the paper original?
Develop a thesis or organizing claim that integrates and interprets the sources (not just summarize).
Which expository essay "brings together information from many sources in a new way"?
Synthesis paper
Which type expands a dictionary definition with your own explanation?
Definition
How do evidence and reasoning work together to support a thesis? (short)
Evidence gives facts or examples; reasoning explains how those facts support the claim.
What are some themes in Star Wars?
Star Wars explores deep storytelling ideas like the battle between good and evil, the power of hope, and the importance of family.
What is the purpose of a literature survey in an original research paper?
To summarize and evaluate current literature to show what is known and to justify your research question or hypothesis.
How is an I-Search paper different from an original research paper? (one short sentence each)
Search: writer explores a topic personally and writes about their search; Original research: writer looks at what others have done and then does new research or experiments.
Which type breaks a big topic into smaller groups?
Classification
Give one respectful way to disagree with an opposing argument.
Point out a weakness in their evidence or logic, then give stronger evidence for your view.
List the elements of a story.
The five main elements of a story are characters, setting, plot, conflict, and theme (or resolution)
Give two ways a writer can evaluate the credibility of a source used in a research paper.
Check the author's credentials/affiliation and verify publication in a peer-reviewed or reputable source; check citations, date, and consistency with other sources.