Course Code: ENG-205
Credit Hours: 3 (3+0)
Prerequisites: None
Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs)
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
| CLO | Domain | BT Level |
|---|---|---|
| Understand the fundamental principles and structures of expository writing. | C | 2 |
| Analyze and evaluate various forms of expository texts. | C | 4 |
| Develop clear, concise, and well-organized expository essays and reports for different audiences. | C | 3 |
| Edit and revise expository texts to improve clarity, coherence, and effectiveness. | C | 5 |
(BT = Bloom’s Taxonomy; C = Cognitive Domain)
Course Contents
Week 1: Introduction to Expository Writing
- Definition and purpose of expository writing
- Differences between expository, descriptive, narrative, and persuasive writing
- The writing process: Planning, drafting, revising, and editing
- Class Activity: Analyze a sample expository text
Week 2: Understanding Audience and Purpose
- Identifying and addressing the audience
- Establishing a clear purpose
- Tone and style in expository writing
- Assignment: Write a short paragraph explaining a simple process
Week 3: Structure of Expository Essays
- Components of an expository essay: Introduction, body, and conclusion
- Crafting a strong thesis statement
- Logical organization and coherence
- Reading Material: Excerpts from “The Norton Field Guide to Writing”
- Task: Outline an expository essay based on a given topic
Week 4: Types of Expository Writing
- Descriptive, process, compare and contrast, cause and effect, problem-solution
- Characteristics and examples of each type
- Class Activity: Group discussion on types of expository essays
Week 5: Developing Paragraphs
- Topic sentences and supporting details
- Unity and coherence in paragraphs
- Transitions and connectors
- Assignment: Write a descriptive paragraph with proper transitions
Week 6: Writing Process Essays
- Explaining processes step-by-step
- Importance of chronological order and clarity
- Task: Write a process essay on a familiar topic
Week 7: Compare and Contrast Essays
- Point-by-point and block methods
- Effective use of comparison and contrast language
- Assignment: Compare two articles on a similar topic
Week 8: Cause and Effect Essays
- Identifying causes and effects clearly
- Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
- Reading Material: Sample cause and effect essays
- Task: Draft an essay identifying causes and effects of a current issue
Week 9: Midterm Exam
- Coverage: Weeks 1–8
- Format: Short answer questions and an expository essay
Week 10: Problem-Solution Essays
- Identifying problems and proposing feasible solutions
- Structure and language of problem-solution essays
- Assignment: Write a problem-solution essay on a local issue
Week 11: Writing Reports
- Purpose and types of reports
- Components of a report: Title, introduction, findings, conclusion, and recommendations
- Task: Create an outline for an analytical report
Week 12: Editing and Revising Expository Texts
- Common errors in expository writing
- Peer review and self-assessment techniques
- Class Activity: Peer review session
Week 13: Effective Use of Sources
- Paraphrasing, summarizing, and quoting
- Avoiding plagiarism and citing sources (APA/MLA format)
- Assignment: Summarize an article with proper citations
Week 14: Writing for Digital Platforms
- Adapting expository writing for blogs and articles
- SEO basics and writing engaging introductions
- Task: Write a blog post on an informative topic
Week 15: Course Revision and Mock Exam
- Review key concepts and writing strategies
- Practice essay writing under timed conditions
Week 16: Final Exam
- Coverage: Entire course
- Format: Multiple choice questions and a comprehensive expository essay
Teaching Methodology
- Lectures and interactive discussions
- Written assignments and peer reviews
- Workshops and presentations
- Feedback and one-on-one consultations
Assessment Criteria
| Component | Weightage (%) |
|---|---|
| Assignments | 20% |
| Midterm Exam | 20% |
| Class Participation | 10% |
| Final Exam | 30% |
| Project/Essay Submission | 20% |
Textbook
- “The Norton Field Guide to Writing” by Richard Bullock
Reference Materials
- “The Little, Brown Handbook” by H. Ramsey Fowler
- “Writing with Style: Conversations on the Art of Writing” by John R. Trimble