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Welcome to GattPrep, your Guide for Life and Learning
Have you ever had to explain how something works or why something happens—without giving your opinion or telling a story? That’s exactly what an expository essay does. The word expository comes from “expose,” meaning to explain, describe, or inform.
In WASSCE, expository essays test your ability to organize facts clearly, use logical reasoning, and write in a neutral tone. This lesson will teach you how to write an effective expository essay by breaking down structure, tone, examples, and practice.
An expository essay is a factual, non-fiction essay that presents information, explanations, or ideas in a clear and logical way. It is not about opinions, stories, or persuasion. Instead, it answers questions like:
What is it?
How does it work?
Why does it happen?
What are its causes or effects?
🧠 Think of it as teaching someone about something they don’t know, like a mini lecture in writing form.
Common types include:
Explanatory Essays: Explaining a process or situation
E.g., “Describe how to prepare for a job interview.”
Cause-and-Effect Essays: Showing how or why something happens
E.g., “Explain the causes and effects of rural-urban migration.”
Comparative Essays: Showing similarities and differences
E.g., “Compare life in the village to life in the city.”
Definition Essays: Explaining a concept
E.g., “What is discipline, and why is it important?”
| Feature | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Clear thesis statement | Introduce your topic and what the essay will explain |
| Logical structure | Organized in paragraphs (introduction, body, conclusion) |
| Factual and neutral tone | No opinions, emotions, or exaggeration |
| Use of examples or evidence | Real-life cases, facts, or common knowledge |
| Linking devices | Use connectors like firstly, in addition, however, finally to improve flow |
Introduction
Define or explain the topic
State your main idea or what you’ll discuss
Body Paragraphs (2–3)
One main point per paragraph
Use examples and logical reasoning
Start each paragraph with a topic sentence
Conclusion
Summarize the main points
Avoid introducing new ideas
End clearly and confidently
“Explain the importance of time management for students.”
You’re not narrating a personal story or arguing. You’re explaining clearly why time management matters for students.
Introduction
Define time management
State why it’s important for students
Body Paragraph 1: Academic performance
Managing time helps meet deadlines and study consistently
Body Paragraph 2: Reduces stress
When tasks are planned, students feel more in control
Body Paragraph 3: Builds discipline and life skills
Being punctual and organised prepares students for work life
Conclusion
Restate main points
Emphasise long-term benefits
Time management refers to the ability to plan and control how much time is spent on specific activities. For students, it is one of the most essential skills for academic and personal success. A student who manages their time effectively is more likely to complete homework, prepare for exams, and balance school with other activities. Poor time management often leads to stress, missed deadlines, and poor performance. Therefore, learning how to prioritise and plan is key to success in both school and life.
Which of the following topics are suitable for expository writing?
Write a story that ends with: “I had never felt so proud.”
Describe the role of traditional festivals in your culture.
Argue for or against the use of mobile phones in schools.
Explain the effects of teenage pregnancy on education.
Narrate a time you overcame fear.
✅ Answers:
2 and 4 are expository.
1 and 5 are narrative.
3 is argumentative.
Fill in the best connectors:
___________, students must plan their day in advance.
___________, they can divide tasks based on importance.
___________, they should avoid distractions like mobile phones.
___________, good time management improves results.
✅ Answers:
Firstly
Secondly
In addition
In conclusion
Choose one topic and write a 3-paragraph expository essay:
Explain the benefits of reading regularly.
Describe how schools can promote environmental awareness.
Explain why some students drop out of school.
✔️ Use the structure:
Introduction (definition + overview)
Two body paragraphs (with examples)
Conclusion
Let’s review what you’ve learned:
Expository essays explain, inform, or describe factual topics in a clear and neutral way.
They follow a clear structure: introduction, body, and conclusion.
Avoid opinions, emotions, and storytelling—stick to facts and logical flow.
Use examples and linkers to guide the reader.
Pick a topic you know well—sports, your favorite subject, or school challenges.
How would you explain it clearly to someone who knows nothing about it?
What examples would you use? What would be your structure?
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