Crafting Expository Argument

Classroom-tested strategies for successful teaching of the writing process!

Michael Degen, Ph.D., College Board consultant and winner of the 2001 Outstanding Teaching of the Humanities Award: Students do not become better writers by completing a series

of writing assignments with little teacher feedback and no option for revision. They learn to write better if the teacher models the assignment, states directions clearly, offers opportunities for students to practice the skills necessary to achieve high expectations, provides specific feedback toward improvement,

and requires students to revise written work after thoroughly instructing them in the revision process.

CRAFTING EXPOSITORY ARGUMENT

Based on four teaching concepts-clear directions, modeling, repetition, and revision-Crafting Expository Argument helps teachers and students master the art of clear, concise writing.

You will learn how to - Develop an analytical voice

- Use Aristotle's topics for generating thesis ideas

- Craft precise thesis statements and topic sentences

- Create attention-grabbing introductions and thoughtful conclusions - Elaborate details thoroughly

- Weave ideas together with effective transitions

- Incorporate direct quotations

- Compose elegant sentences with a variety of sophisticated structures - Revise for improved clarity

Plus

Student-written model paragraphs and essays Glossary of literary terms - Editing symbols and strategies Updated online resources