Expository/Informational Essay Vocabulary

Front

Definition

Back

A statement that explains the meaning of a word or phrase.

Tags

CCSS.L.11-12.4C

CCSS.L.6.4C

CCSS.L.7.4C

CCSS.L.8.4C

CCSS.L.9-10.4C

Front

Metaphor

Back

A figure of speech that describes an object or action in a way that isn't literally true, often used for comparison.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.5A

CCSS.L.5.5A

CCSS.RL.5.4

CCSS.W.11-12.2D

Front

Introduction

Back

The first paragraph of an essay that includes the hook, bridge, and thesis statement.

Tags

CCSS.L.8.6

CCSS.L.9-10.6

CCSS.W.7.2D

CCSS.W.8.2D

CCSS.W.9-10.2D

Front

Simile

Back

A figure of speech that compares two unlike things using 'like' or 'as'.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.5A

CCSS.L.5.5A

CCSS.RL.5.4

CCSS.W.11-12.2D

Front

Structure of an Informational Essay

Back

An informational/expository essay consists of an introduction, body paragraph(s), and conclusion.

Tags

CCSS.L.7.6

CCSS.L.8.6

CCSS.L.9-10.6

CCSS.W.8.2D

CCSS.W.9-10.2D

Front

Thesis Statement

Back

A sentence that summarizes the main point or claim of an essay.

Front

Hook

Back

An engaging opening sentence or question designed to grab the reader's attention.

Tags

CCSS.L.7.6

CCSS.L.8.6

CCSS.L.9-10.6

CCSS.W.8.2D

CCSS.W.9-10.2D

Front

Body Paragraph

Back

A section of an essay that develops a specific point or argument related to the thesis.

Tags

CCSS.L.7.6

CCSS.L.8.6

CCSS.L.9-10.6

CCSS.W.8.2D

CCSS.W.9-10.2D

Front

Conclusion

Back

The final paragraph of an essay that summarizes the main points and restates the thesis.

Tags

CCSS.L.8.6

CCSS.L.9-10.6

CCSS.W.7.2D

CCSS.W.8.2D

CCSS.W.9-10.2D

Front

Transition Words

Back

Words or phrases that help to connect ideas and guide the reader through the text.

Tags

CCSS.L.1.6

CCSS.L.5.6