Expository Essay Map

Introductory information: Have an interesting opening sentence that catches the

reader’s attention. Give some background information. Try using an interesting
fact, an interesting question, or a quotation.
Paragraph 1
Introduction Thesis: Write sentence or statement describing what your paper will be about.
What subject are you talking about and what about that subject? List everything
that you will be talking about in your body paragraphs. You do not have a paper
without a thesis! For STAAR, your thesis must answer the prompt.

Write a Topic (a sentence describing what your first paragraph is about) /

Paragraph 2 Transition Sentence.

1st Body
Write a paragraph about the first item listed in your thesis sentence. Stick to the
Paragraph topic! Don’t write about anything else in this paragraph.

Make sure to include specific details and examples. It should ALL relate to your
thesis.

Write a Topic / Transition Sentence. Make sure your topic sentence is also a
Paragraph 3 transition sentence. Your ideas need to move from one topic to another logically.

2nd Body
Write a paragraph about the second item listed in your thesis sentence. Stick to
Paragraph the topic! Don’t write about anything else in this paragraph.

Make sure to include specific details and examples. It should all relate to your
thesis.

Write a Topic/Transition Sentence.

Paragraph 4
3rd Body Write a paragraph about the third item listed in your thesis sentence. Stick to the
Paragraph topic! Don’t write about anything else in this paragraph.

(Optional) Make sure to include specific details and examples. It should all relate to your
thesis.

Write a final Transition Sentence. Sum up all your major points again. Do NOT just
Paragraph 5 repeat what you’ve already said. Use different vocabulary. Make a universal
Conclusion comment on your topic that anyone can connect with.