Expository vs Explanatory Texts

Front

Expository Text

Back

Explains facts, provides information

Front

Explanatory Text

Back

Clarifies how or why something happens

Front

Purpose of Expository

Back

Inform or explain a topic

Front

Purpose of Explanatory

Back

Describe processes or reasons

Front

Structure of Expository

Back

Introduction, body, conclusion

Front

Structure of Explanatory

Back

Sequential or cause-effect order

Front

Language in Expository

Back

Clear, concise, factual

Front

Language in Explanatory

Back

Descriptive, detailed, logical

Front

Examples of Expository

Back

Textbooks, news articles

Front

Examples of Explanatory

Back

How-to guides, manuals