Understanding Expository Text: Definition, Types, and Structure
Expository Text: Definition and Characteristics
The expository text aims to inform and expand knowledge on a specific topic. Its primary intention is didactic: to facilitate understanding of an idea or concept and to broaden the reader’s knowledge. An expository text should present information in an orderly, clear, and objective manner, emphasizing the referential function. The author assumes the reader has some prior knowledge of the subject matter.
Examples of expository texts include specialized scientific texts and most academic texts, such as reviews, notes, oral and written presentations, textbooks, encyclopedias, conferences, and newspaper articles.
Types of Expository Texts
Informative Texts
These texts report on topics of general interest and should be easily understood by a broad audience. However, the complexity can vary depending on the intended recipient and the author’s purpose.
Scientific Expositions
Modern science has led to the development of highly specialized texts that require extensive prior knowledge of the subject matter.
Structure of Expository Texts
Expository texts generally begin with an idea or theme that is then developed. The text elements are related logically, chronologically, or hierarchically. Logical relationships establish cause-and-effect, temporal relationships present events in a historical perspective, and hierarchical relationships organize facts by importance.
Basic Structure: Three Parts
Introduction
The introduction presents the issue. It may define the topic, provide background information, or offer context. Longer texts may include temporal and spatial context or a literature review.
Development
The development elaborates on the theme and incorporates examples. Examples are crucial for supporting the explanation and enhancing understanding.
Conclusion
The conclusion summarizes the text, reiterating the initial viewpoint and evaluating the information presented.
Order of Information
The development of the subject matter can follow a deductive or inductive approach:
- Deduction: Starting with a general idea or thesis statement and then providing explanations and examples (thesis first).
- Induction: Presenting specific cases or examples leading to a conclusion or synthesis (thesis at the end).
Both forms can be used within the same text.
Language of Expository Texts
Syntax
Declarative sentences and subordinate clauses are common. Attributive sentences and logical markers are also frequently used.
Verb Tense
The verb tense is usually in the third person, often in impersonal forms. However, the first person may also appear in nonfiction texts.
Lexicon
The vocabulary is clear and precise, avoiding ambiguity, polysemy, and value judgments.