Expository papers are one type of writing that we focus on in 5th grade. Expository papers are when we explain how to do something, or how something works. The performance elements of this type of writing are similar to narrative and persuasive. They are:

  1. Focus: the clarity with which a paper presents and maintains a clear idea or point of view.
  2. Support: the degree to which the main point or position is supported and explained by specific detail and reasons.
  3. Organization: the clarity of the logical flow of ideas and the explicitness of the text structure or plan.
  4. Conventions: use of standard written English.
  5. Integration: evaluation of the paper on a focused, global judgement of how effectively the paper as a whole uses these 4 features to fulfill the assignment.

Below is an example that we wrote as a class.

The Making of a Cloud

Many people do not know where clouds come from. This paper will explain where clouds come from and how they are formed.

A cloud's life begins as water. Water in a lake, river, or puddle evaporates. Evaporation is when water is absorbed by the air around us. After the air with the water warms, it rises.

It is now that a cloud really starts to take shape. As the warm, moist air rises the water vapor condenses around dust particles and smoke. Condensation is when the water in moist air collects on an object.

The last phase of a cloud's life is when the water in the cloud becomes to heavy to hold. The water falls as precipitation. Precipitation comes in many forms: hail, rain, sleet, or snow.

After the water has fallen and collects in rivers, lakes, and puddles, the cycle begins again.