Objective: TLW write introductions and conclusions for an expository writing piece.

These particular introductions and conclusions go with the following writing prompt: Think of a household job or chore that you hate to do and explain why.

These are models and steps that I used with my 5th graders after they had already written the body of the writing piece. I learned this method from Rick Shelton, who visited our school and did a model lesson. I was shocked at how much my students’ writing improved as a result of these instructions.

The KEY here is to actually write the models on the board for the students to see after you have taken them through the steps.

Not only were the writing pieces excellent, but the students enjoyed the topic!

Expository Writing Introductions

What are expository writers trying to accomplish in introductions?


• To tell the reader what they are writing about
  
• To capture the readers attention

Introduction DON’TS

• DO NOT introduce yourself as the author
  
• DO NOT begin with “I am going to write to you about”
  
  Professional writers DO NOT do this!

Introduction DO’S

• 1st Sentence: State your subject
  
• 2nd Sentence: Tell how you feel about the subject
  
• 3rd Sentence: State your 3 reasons

Model of an Expository Introduction

The one job around the house that I hate to do more than anything else is the garbage. Sometimes I wish that the garbage would just learn to take itself out. Taking the garbage out is such a horrible task because it stinks, it is sticky, and the dogs always carry it away.

Expository Writing Conclusions

What are expository writers trying to accomplish in conclusions?

• To sum the entire writing piece up

Conclusion DO’s

• 1st Sentence: Restate your subject
  
• 2nd Sentence: Restate your reasons
  
• 3rd Sentence: State a sentence about the future of the subject

Model of an Expository Conclusion

Taking out the garbage is the worst household job in the world. No one should have to suffer through the smell, stickiness, or aggravation of the dogs. One day, I hope to be able to have a machine to carry it away for me.

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Jamie Danford

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