HUM120 Handouts Lecture 01 PDF

Lecture 01 1.1 What is Expository Writing? Expository writing is a form of non-fictional writing that is used to expose some concept or idea. It is primarily focused on providing information, explaining a topic, or presenting an idea in a clear and concise manner. Its primary purpose is to convey fa...

Lecture 01 1.1 What is Expository Writing? Expository writing is a form of non-fictional writing that is used to expose some concept or idea. It is primarily focused on providing information, explaining a topic, or presenting an idea in a clear and concise manner. Its primary purpose is to convey facts, concepts, ideas, or instructions to the reader, often in a straightforward and objective fashion. Expository writing is used to educate, inform, or clarify a subject, making it a common style in various non-fictional contexts. It is generally found in textbooks, academic essays, letters, manuals, reports, news articles, pamphlets, magazines, guidebooks etc 1.2 Characteristics of Expository Writing The characteristics of Expository Writing can be elaborated under the following headings: 1.2.1 Clarity Expository writing prioritizes clarity by using simple and precise language to ensure that readers can easily understand and absorb the information presented, minimizing the risk of misinterpretation. 1.2.2 Logical Sequence It employs a logical sequence of ideas, arranging information in a well-structured manner, typically starting with an introduction to introduce the topic, followed by body paragraphs that present supporting details, and concluding with a summary or resolution. 1.2.3 Objective Tone Maintaining an objective tone in expository writing is essential, as it avoids personal bias or emotional language, allowing readers to trust the information as impartial and based on factual evidence. 1.2.4 Structured Writing Expository writing adheres to a structured format with a proper introduction, supporting details in the form of examples and a conclusion. It enables readers to navigate the text efficiently and locate specific information with ease, contributing to a coherent and organized presentation. 1.2.5 Source of Information It draws on credible sources, such as academic research, expert opinions, statistics, and verifiable data, ensuring that the content is trustworthy and based on reliable information. 1.2.6 Reflect Audience Awareness Writers tailor their expository content to the level of their target audience keeping in view their background knowledge and comprehension, ensuring that the information is both informative and easily accessible to the intended readers. 1.2.7 Wide Range of Topics Expository writing can address an extensive array of subjects, from scientific concepts and historical events to practical instructions, making it a versatile style of writing used in various fields and disciplines. 1.2.8 Convincing and Credible Writing By presenting information in a factual and evidence-based manner, expository writing aims to persuade and convince readers of the validity and credibility of the presented information, making it a persuasive tool for conveying knowledge. 1.2.9 Non-Fictional Writing Expository writing is a form of non-fictional writing, focusing on conveying factual information and educating readers, rather than creating fictional narratives or storytelling. 1.3 Purpose of Expository Writing The expository mode of writing is generally used to perform the following functions: 1.3.1 To Inform The purpose of expository writing is to inform the reader about a particular topic or subject by providing factual information. It serves as a means to convey knowledge and raise awareness about a subject, ensuring that readers gain a better understanding of the topic. For instance a news article sharing the results of a general election is an example of this purpose. 1.3.2 To Explain Expository writing aims to explain complex concepts, processes, or ideas in a straightforward and comprehensible manner. It breaks down intricate subjects into simpler components, making it accessible and digestible for the audience. The process of photosynthesis is generally explained using the format of expository writing. 1.3.3 To Describe Expository writing describes specific subjects, objects, places, or events in detail, offering a clear and vivid portrayal that enables readers to visualize and comprehend the subject being discussed. Brochure of a housing society exemplifies the descriptive attribute of expository writing. 1.3.4 To Instruct or Guide It provides clear instructions and guidance, often in the form of step-by-step processes or procedures, to help readers understand how to perform a particular task or achieve a specific goal. Instruction manuals, how-to-guides and recipe books are the pertinent examples of this purpose. 1.3.5 To Analyze Data Expository writing is employed to analyze and interpret data, statistics, or information, allowing readers to gain insights, draw conclusions, and make informed decisions based on the presented analysis. Writing which involves analysis of graphs for the prediction of weather patterns is an example of this purpose. 1.3.6 To Persuade While primarily focused on factual information, expository writing can also aim to persuade or convince the reader by presenting a compelling argument supported by evidence, aiming to influence the reader's perspective or behavior. For instance, an article written on the benefits of regular exercise and walk can be used to convince readers to revise their daily routine and include exercise within their schedule. 1.3.7 To Educate Expository writing plays a vital role in education, as it serves as a primary method for delivering knowledge in academic settings, teaching students about various subjects and concepts. It is also used to develop critical thinking among young learners. A book of history is one such example of expository style of writing used for educating the target audience. 1.3.8 To Clearly Communicate The primary purpose of expository writing is to ensure clear and effective communication of information, reducing ambiguity and misunderstanding to convey ideas or facts accurately. 1.3.9 To Answer Questions Expository writing often addresses specific questions or concerns by providing well-researched and informative responses, serving as a valuable resource for readers seeking answers or solutions. Frequently Asked Questions abbreviated as FAQs are an example of this purpose. 1.3.10 To Record Data Expository writing is used to record and document factual information, historical events, research findings, or any data that needs to be preserved for reference or future use. It serves as a reliable means of maintaining a record of important information or events. Research papers are an example to achieve this purpose of expository writing.