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CBEST Writing Examples: Test Questions, Tips, and Dates 2024

The CBEST Writing exam is a critical step in achieving your goal of becoming a teacher in California. It assesses your writing abilities and is mandatory for obtaining a teaching certificate. To give yourself the best chance of passing, it's important to start preparing now. Don't miss this opportunity to take your career to the next level, read on to learn more about the test and how to prepare for it effectively.

The page will include the following:

  • What is the CBEST Writing Exam?
  • CBEST Writing Examples .
How Is Your Writing Evaluated?
  • CBEST Writing Tips .
  • CBEST Writing Test Dates .
  • How to Practice for the writing section of the CBEST?

Let’s dive in.

Get more practice with our Free CBEST Practice Test or get full access to our CBEST PrepPack.

note

If you are looking for a different test, or are not sure which test is relevant for your position, please  contact us , and we will do our best to ensure you get the most accurate preparation for your upcoming assessment.

What Is CBEST Writing Exam?

The CBEST writing exam consists of two sections that measure your writing ability. The first topic asks you to analyze a situation or statement. The second section asks you to describe an experience you have had.

Test Instructions

Make sure you address all of the points raised in the initial paragraph and only write about the topics presented. Use specific examples to support generalizations. Take the time to read the content of the paragraph before you start writing, and build a mental plan in your mind.

Write an original response, without copying or paraphrasing anyone else's or some other work.

The responses you provide will not require any specialized knowledge.

How Long is the CBEST Writing Test?

The length of the CBEST writing section is 1 hour and 30 minutes.

CBEST Writing Examples and Topics

To practice read the following CBEST essay writing examples and topics and choose some for practice, the test will include a time limit so give yourself about 45 minutes to write an appropriate essay.

Writing example 1: Are you in agreement or disagreement with the following statement? Dogs are man's best friends. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

Writing example 2: It has been said, "The key to success is to stop talking and start doing." Compare and contrast success gained from correct planning and consulting with other people with success gained from doing the work. In your opinion, which strategy is more important? Why?

Writing example 3: "Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant." Do you agree or disagree with the quotation above? Use specific reasons and examples to explain your position.

Writing example 4: Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? "Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I will remember. Involve me and I learn". Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

Writing example 5: Learning about the past has no value for those of us living in the present. Do you agree or disagree? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

Writing example 6: Which habit is most important to be successful in today's world? Choose one skill and use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

Writing example 7: What are the important characteristics of a good father or mother? Over time, have these qualities changed in your culture or remained the same? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

Writing example 8: Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? "In this life, we cannot do great things. We can only do small things with great love." Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.

Writing example 9: There are many people who prefer to work for themselves or own their own businesses. Others prefer to be employed by someone else. Is it more appealing to you to be self-employed or work for someone else? Break down your decision into specific points.

In order to determine the score for the CBEST Writing Score Scale, the following characteristics of written performance are evaluated.

Rhetorical Force: How clearly the central idea or point of view is expressed; the coherence of the writer's argument.

Organization: The author's logical flow of ideas and the clarity of his or her writing.

Support and Development: The quality, depth, and specificity of supporting information.

Usage: How carefully and precisely the words are chosen in the writing.

Structure and Conventions: A writer's ability to avoid errors in syntax, paragraph structure, sentence structure, and mechanics (e.g., spelling, punctuation, capitalization).

Appropriateness: The writer's approach to the topic and the way language and style fit the audience and purpose.

CBEST Writing Tips

The CBEST Test has a scoring system that ranks each essay from 1-4. A "4" is a well-written essay that effectively communicates a whole message to the intended audience.

To communicate your message effectively keep in mind the following tips:

  • Clearly present a central idea or point of view while maintaining focus on that topic.
  • Writing outline - Arrange your Ideas or points of discussion in a logical way, and state their meaning clearly.
  • Make sure you don't make generalizations without supporting them with relevant, specific, and detailed arguments.
  • Be precise, careful, and accurate in your use of words.
  • Build coherent paragraphs by composing sentences of syntactic complexity and variety.
  • Use language and style appropriate for the given audience and purpose when forming your response, and make sure it addresses the topic fully.
CBEST Writing Test Dates

You can set a date for your CBEST writing test through the following Pearson Vue link. Fill in the location closest to your home and a suitable date, and it will show you the closest test centers.

As of February 2024, applications received before 12/5/2023 are still in process. Check out the State of California's official site for more information about the upcoming Test dates. 

How to Practice for the Writing Section of the CBEST?

Prior to the exam, write at least three or four full practice essays. Choose writing prompts formats that are similar to the one you might receive on the CBEST, rather than just writing samples about anything you want.

There will be very specific criteria that examiners will be looking for, so even if you're an excellent writer, you should make sure you're able to write in the way they expect.

Go over the 'how is your writing evaluated' section and make sure you cover all the key parameters.

Is the CBEST writing test hard?

The difficulty of the CBEST writing test can vary for different individuals. Some may find it challenging due to poor writing skills or familiarity with the test format, while others may have an easier time with proper preparation and practice. Ultimately, it is subjective and can depend on the individual's abilities and level of preparation.

What is the average CBEST writing score?

The writing section scores range between 4 and 16, and they are scaled to provide a more accurate representation of the student's performance, with an average range of 20 to 80.

Related Teacher Prep Pages

  • Full guide to the CBEST Test
  • CBEST Reading Practice Test
  • CBEST Math Practice Test

cbest expository essay examples

How to Write the CBEST Writing Section Essays

cbest expository essay examples

You may feel a bit rusty when it comes to writing essays. Or, perhaps you have failed the CBEST writing section in the past.

Whatever the case may be, if you need to pass the CBEST writing section, you’ve come to the right place.

The CBEST writing portion of the test includes two essays that you have to write within a relatively short time. 

You are no doubt familiar with the rubric and the scoring criteria, so I won’t waste your time with any of that information. Instead, you and I will go straight to the meat of the matter. 

I will give you step-by-step instructions on how to write each of the essays. The first essay is personal, and the second is expository, which means it is argumentative.

So, let’s dive right in and learn how to write each of these essays on a tight timeline of the CBEST test.

How to Write the CBEST Personal Essay

First, let’s quickly discuss the main difference between the personal and the expository essays on this test.

The expository (argumentative) essay is the same 5-paragraph essay that they kind of taught you how to write in school. It is also a basic college essay in which you state an argument and support it. 

The personal essay, especially as described in CBEST prompts, is essentially a story with a lesson. This is the easiest way to approach it. 

So, in this part of the tutorial, we’ll be writing a 5-paragraph personal story with a lesson that you learned from it. I will use my personal example as an illustration. 

Our Sample CBEST Personal Essay Question

“Most people have experienced a significant challenge that changed their life in some way. This challenge is usually a loss of some kind, such as a loss of health, of a job or financial asset, or of an important relationship. In an essay to be read by an audience of educated adults, discuss one such challenge and how it changed you as a person.”

Note that any CBEST personal essay question will involve some kind of a challenge, something from your past you wish you could change, or some kind of a loss. 

Does this sound familiar? 

Every Hollywood movie is structured this way. You have a character who has a problem, and she overcomes that problem, but she has to change in order to do that.

In your personal essay, you are essentially doing the same. Your 5-paragraph structure becomes your 5-act movie. Let’s break it down into paragraphs.

CBEST Personal Essay Structure

Paragraph 1

In the first paragraph, you want to immediately answer the posed question. This will also mean that you are stating a problem that you had in the past. Describe the outer world problem.

Paragraph 2

Here, you reveal your inner world problem. This is something psychological about the situation. Think – there is a flat tire and there is a “story of the flat tire.” You also describe the situation in more detail, providing more context. 

Paragraph 3

Describe what you did to overcome the situation. This is about what you did in the outer world and what challenges or problems you encountered. 

You did not overcome the challenge yet. You had to deal with another problem that prevented you from winning at this point.

Paragraph 4

You realize that something needs to change for you to get the result. Something in your mindset had to shift. 

Paragraph 5

Describe how you finally achieved the result, what lesson or lessons you learned, and how you changed as a person. 

Please note that this structure is an approximation. You are simply telling a story with a beginning, middle, and an end. 

This structure gives you ideas of what to put in each paragraph. Use it as a reference when telling your story because each story is different. 

Also, keep in mind that if your story is somewhat simple, you can write only four paragraphs. That is okay, too. 

And now, let’s write an essay, using this template. Notice how this sounds familiar in terms of a Hollywood movie or any good story you’ve ever heard or read. 

CBEST Personal Essay Example

“One fine April evening many years ago, during an exercise routine, I made a wrong move and twisted my body in an unusual way. I heard a loud pop in my left knee and fell on the floor, writhing in pain. As it later turned out, I had torn my anterior cruciate ligament, a major stabilizing ligament in the knee. I now walked with a limp and had intense pain whenever I tried to extend my leg or when stepping onto a sidewalk. I was 30 years old, and I had a trauma that changed the way I walked. 

That injury did not just affect my physical body. I also became very stressed out about the situation. Doctors told me I needed an operation. But when I looked up the procedure on the internet, I realized that it involved cutting off parts of my leg, drilling holes in my bones, and fixing things with screws. I really did not want that done to me. But it seemed I had no other options. I was very scared, despondent, and was even becoming depressed. 

After months of looking for solutions, I came across a clinic in Europe where they treated joint diseases. It was located in a nice spa town, so I figured I needed a break from it all and had a chance to heal my leg at the same time if I went. So, I bought airplane tickets and packed my bags. I spent a couple of weeks in that town, all the while being treated at the clinic. But I saw no results. My hopes were being crushed. However, I met an interesting person there who suggested that I should look for an active way to achieve healing rather than trying to find someone to “do it for me.”

I had never thought of that before. That advice really shifted my mind. When I came back to New York, I started to look for self-healing solutions rather than for doctors who wanted to “do something to me.” Miraculously, I came across a website that taught people how to heal from an injury using a set of exercises. When I saw that, I immediately knew that this would work for me. It was a strange intuitive feeling. I called up the people in charge, made an appointment, and my self-healing began. 

The result did not come right away. The trainers taught me to be patient and keep doing the work. Persistence would have to be the key. Two months later, while doing my exercises, I suddenly realized that my pain was gone, I could extend my leg freely, and I could walk without a limp. I couldn’t believe it! I was healed. This healing made me realize that in order to achieve something, the ultimate place to look for answers is within. Nobody can do for us what we can do for ourselves when it comes to overcoming a major life problem.”

Key Points about this Essay

  • This essay has 492 words.
  • It is based on the 5-paragraph structured outlined above. 
  • It has a beginning, a middle, and an end.
  • It contains a shift – from outside healing to self-healing.
  • It ends with a triumph and the lesson learned. 

Key Takeaways and Tips

Your personal stories are fascinating.

If you really think about any of your personal stories, you’ll find that there is always more under the surface. 

Something happened, but why did it happen? What was a possible hidden cause?

As an exercise, just sit back and think of one of your stories of adversity and triumph. And by following the 5-paragraph structure, just retell that story to yourself. 

You’ll find that the structure I gave you helps bring out things that perhaps you never noticed before. Your stories are dramatic and interesting. 

Every good story involves an inner shift.

Luke Skywalker can only become a Jedi if he can overcome self-doubt. 

Rocky can only gain the respect of others if he first gains self-respect. 

In my story, I had to shift from the idea of being healed by someone to the idea of taking my healing into my own hands. 

The structure is only a guideline.

You can find elements from the 5-paragraph structure in any of your personal stories. So, just use those elements you can identify. 

But try to find as many of them as you can:

  • the loss itself
  • the inner problem resulting from it or causing it
  • the early ineffective solution
  • the final effective solution
  • the lesson(s) learned. 

Any CBEST personal essay question is about adversity and triumph.

If you’re asked to describe a time you disappointed a loved one, this is a dramatic story. It’s about the disappointment, how it resolved, and what you learned in the end.

If you’re writing about a personal loss or challenge, this is a drama. You started at a low point, fought through obstacles, and triumphed. You definitely learned something.

If you have to write about something in the past that you could change, that’s a dramatic story. Why do you wish you could change it? Because it was some kind of a loss. 

In other words, the 5-paragraph structure that I gave you will work for any essay prompt you get on the CBEST test.

It’s time to move on to the CBEST argumentative essay. 

How to Write the CBEST Expository Essay in 5 Steps

An expository essay is simply an essay in which you present an argument and then support it, using evidence. A simple, college argumentative essay is an expository essay.

And that is the second kind of an essay you have to write on the CBEST writing test. It is also known as an opinion essay. 

In this essay, you want to stick to a 5-paragraph structure and shoot for about 400 words. Let’s get right to it. 

Writing a CBEST expository essay is a 5-step process:

  • Take a stand 
  • Write the thesis statement
  • Write the support (body of the essay) 
  • Write the conclusion
  • Write an introductory sentence

Our Sample CBEST Expository Essay Question 

“Amit Kalantri once said that ‘great losses are great lessons.’ In an essay intended for educated adults, state whether you agree or disagree with Kalantri’s observation. Support your argument with logical reasoning and specific examples.”

I deliberately chose a prompt that is very similar to our personal essay question. You’ll see that the ways we write the personal and the expository essays are very different.

Let’s shoot for 400 words in this essay. This makes for an easy way to judge how much to write in each paragraph, as I’ll show you in a minute.

Step 1. Take a stand

This is a very simple and easy step in which we simply decide whether we agree or disagree with the statement and write it as a complete sentence.

You’ll notice that most choices whether to agree or disagree are really easy to make. They kind of “beg” for either a positive or a negative answer. 

This quotation I chose just begs for you to agree with it. So, let’s make this simple decision and choose to agree with Kalantri. And let’s write out the complete main point:

“I agree with Kalantri’s statement that great losses are great lessons.”

And we’re done with step 1. 

Step 2. Write the thesis statement

The thesis statement must include not only your main point but also your supporting points. For a 5-paragraph essay, you always want to have three supporting points or ideas.

Each of these supporting ideas will correspond to a body paragraph of your essay. To find the supporting points, you must ask yourself why you agree (or disagree) with the statement in the prompt.

Let’s find three reasons why we agree that great losses are great lessons:

  • Losses make people think
  • Losses reveal people to themselves
  • Losses usually lead to greater advantages

When coming up with these three reasons, make sure that they are different from one another. 

Now that we have our reasons, let’s write out a complete thesis statement. We can simply copy and paste our main and supporting points together and make sure they flow:

Our Complete Thesis Statement

As you can see, we simply copied and pasted all of our points together and made a few tweaks to make the paragraph flow. 

We now have a complete thesis statement that is also our outline. Note in the diagram below how we will distribute the 400 words across paragraphs. 

cbest expository essay examples

And we’re ready for the next step. 

Just so you know, I wrote a detailed tutorial on how to write a thesis statement , in case you want to master this skill. 

Step 3. Write the Support (Body of the Essay)

Our body of the essay will consist of three paragraphs, about 100 words each. If you know an exact number to shoot for in each paragraph, your life becomes a lot easier. 

Each paragraph must proceed from general to specific. The first sentence in a body paragraph is called a lead sentence (or a topic sentence). It is the most general sentence in the paragraph.

The next most general part of a paragraph is some kind of an explanation why we believe this statement is true.

And finally, the most specific part of a body paragraph is an example.

Here’s what an overall structure of a body paragraph looks like:

cbest expository essay examples

Let’s go ahead and write the body of the essay.

Losses make people think, and great losses make them think a lot. Comfort tends to relax people, and when people are relaxed, they simply do not need to think. But as soon as a loss has occurred, the person’s significance, security, or even livelihood may be threatened. To quote Tony Robbins, “When people succeed, they tend to party. When they fail, they tend to ponder.” I remember when I lost 80% of my income in the crash of 2008. That loss made me think and look for ways to compensate and establish better financial security in the future. 

Losses reveal people to themselves, and personal revelations are the greatest lessons. It is a well known phenomenon in psychology that a crisis is a very powerful way to make a person see something in her life that was hidden theretofore. This is illustrated very well in the Wizard of Oz. Each of the characters who accompanied Dorothy to Emerald City thought he lacked a quality. But by dealing with a crisis, they eventually realized that they actually had the courage, the brain, and the heart. I know that this happens in real life because it was not until I faced a financial crisis that I found out that I had the strength and courage to start again in the face of difficulties. 

Great losses usually lead to far greater advantages. Some of the most important lessons that lead to great success are not even available to human beings until and unless they face a crisis of some sort. For example, Lee Iacocca was fired from the Ford Motor Company in 1978. That was a big blow to Lee’s ego and finances. But he found a way to rebound. He subsequently went to work for Chrysler and led that company’s growth in the 1980’s. That was an even greater success for Lee, according to his autobiographical account. 

And we’re done with the body. Please note:

  • Each paragraph is about 100 words long.
  • Each one starts with a lead sentence, proceeds to an explanation, and provides an example.

It’s time for the next step. 

Step 4. Write the conclusion

Writing the conclusion for the CBEST expository essay is really easy. All you need to do is simply restate what you already said – in different words. That’s all.

Use the same structure as the thesis statement. But use synonyms and paraphrase so that your conclusion doesn’t sound like a copy of the thesis statement.

Just use your thesis statement as reference. Let’s do it.

This conclusion is 58 words long, which is perfect for our overall word count. And it does what it should do – it restates the main and the supporting points using different words and phrases. 

By the way, I wrote a detailed tutorial on how to write conclusions , if you want to dig a bit deeper into this skill. 

Step 5. Write an introductory sentence

This step is easy, as well. You just want to add a sentence in the beginning of your opening paragraph, in which you introduce the main point. 

This introductory sentence will be the very first sentence of your essay. To write it, you need to take a step away, zoom out from your main point and provide a perspective. 

In other words, in this sentence you explain why what you’re about to argue is important. 

Here’s our full opening paragraph, including the introductory sentence and the thesis statement:

As you read the paragraph, can you hear how the first sentence introduces your main point really nicely? 

The first sentence is just a way to “get into the subject.” How do people usually react to great loss? They freak out. But they shouldn’t, and here’s why. 

And guess what – we’re done writing our CBEST argumentative essay! It has 416 words of high quality persuasion. 

I hope this was helpful!

Now practice a little and go ace that test.

How to Write a 300 Word Essay – Simple Tutorial

How to expand an essay – 4 tips to increase the word count, 10 solid essay writing tips to help you improve quickly, essay writing for beginners: 6-step guide with examples, 6 simple ways to improve sentence structure in your essays.

Tutor Phil is an e-learning professional who helps adult learners finish their degrees by teaching them academic writing skills.

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  • How it Works

CBEST Writing Prompts & Top Tips (2024)

The CBEST writing section is considered by many to be the ‘wild card section’ of the CBEST test due to the fact that one’s score can vary based on a number of factors as well as how lenient the evaluator was when looking over the entirety and style of your essay, making the use of CBEST writing prompts and guides highly vital in preparing for it.

This is because it won’t matter if you have perfect grammar and can write multiple paragraphs in the span of a few minutes because you will be given little to no points if you didn’t conform to the scoring criteria of the exam.

When you take the CBEST writing test, you will have to write two essays:

  • The Expressive Essay – Where you have to write an essay that contains your personal opinion or experiences on the topic given.
  • The Expository Essay – Where you have to make an analytical essay on the topic supplied to you.

This means that you should be careful not to mistake one for the other and make good use of CBEST writing essay samples and other CBEST writing tips and techniques as the mere volume will not get you anywhere and can even prove disastrous to your score if you try to brute force it.

How to Ace CBEST Writing Section։ Top Tips

Write your essay in five parts:.

Ideally, you should write your essay in five paragraphs, but since everyone has their own writing style, it is instead recommended that you compose your essay in five parts for both Expressive and Expository essays, namely:

  • The Introductory Paragraph
  • First Example
  • Supporting Example
  • Most Important Example

For the Expressive Essay, focus on impact:

Since this particular essay requires you to talk about a personal experience, mentioning how it affected you or changed you in some way will bolster your conclusion. Let’s say that the subject given to you revolves around saving money, you can use instances where you realized that it’s better to buy in bulk in the long run due to the convenience of never having to travel to the grocery store too often, saving you gas or transportation costs, among other things.

For the Expository Essay, try to mention statistics:

Due to the analytical format of this essay, it is almost completely vital for you to mention concrete information, recent studies, or recent national events to solidify your narrative or point

Don’t overshoot:

Apart from writing a terrible or mediocre essay, another reason why so many test-takers fail to get a lot of points in the CBEST writing test is because they try to use overly complex examples that they barely understand but wanted to use because it’s somewhat related to the subject given to them in the test. In reality, however, the CBEST essay writing section doesn’t require you to have an intensive knowledge of the topic in your essay, only enough to convey your message or point.

What is the CBEST Test and why is Essay Writing Included in it?

The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) is an aptitude test that measures the cognitive abilities of aspirant teachers in the states of Oregon and California. Math, Reading, and Writing are the three sections of the test. At Prepterminal we have created the CBEST guide and CBEST practice tests to help you ace the exam and start your career as a teacher.

The writing section was included in the CBEST test to measure a prospective teacher’s ability to write and convey information effectively. Because it is one of the three main sections of the exam, the others being the reading and math sections, preparing for it should just be as important due to how many points you can miss out on for just winging it. That’s why we have developed Math practice and Reading practice tests for you to get a taste of what is going to be on the real exam.

As practicing is the main guarantee that you can ace the CBEST test, Prepterminal offers you the actionable CBEST prep course. Our CBEST preparation course has been developed by experts and psychometric specialists who regularly keep an eye on the exam so that our content is always updated. The course includes 10 core modules and video-based modules on the reading and math sections of the CBEST assessment. These modules contain numerous question banks and practice tests for each subject or subsection, allowing you to be as prepared as you can be.

So, don’t wait, ensure you successfully embark on your teaching career and enroll in our CBEST course today!

CBEST Test Prep Course

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Hey, I’m Michael, PrepTerminal’s CBEST Prep Course expert. I am here to help you with any questions or concerns you may have about the CBEST Prep Course. Feel free to contact me at [email protected] .

CBEST Essays

Cbest essays – expository essays.

You must write two CBEST essays for the California Basic Educational Skills Test. The first of these essays will be the personal essay question.

The second type of essay that you will have to write for the test is the expository type of essay.

Click here for more information on our CBEST Sample Essays and Essay Writing Guide instant download.

For expository essays, exam candidates will be given a statement. The candidates are then asked to evaluate or analyze that statement in their written essays.

For example, prompts for expository essays might ask: “It is often said that every cloud has a silver lining. State whether you agree or disagree with this statement, giving logical reasons and detailed examples.”

For these types of essays on the test, you will write about some kind of issue, and you will often be asked to take a side or state an opinion.

Expository essays are also referred to as analytical essays or argumentative essays.

The best tip we can give you for writing expository essays is to use the third person. In other words, avoid using the word “you.” CBEST examiners have commented that the use of the word “you” in essays makes them feel that they are being told what to do.

Remember that expository essays, as well as personal essays, are graded on the following criteria:

  • Focus on task
  • Organization
  • Supporting detail
  • Word choice and usage
  • Grammar and mechanics
  • Style and tone

If you pass only one of the essays, you will need to re-take the entire writing section of the test, in which case you will have to write both essays again.

Our Guide to Writing CBEST Essays can help!

Click here to download our CBEST Essay Writing Guide .

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How to Write an Expository Essay for the CBEST Exam

Georgia dennis.

Expository writing is found in magazines and newspapers - two mediums all students are familiar with.

Standardized tests are designed to measure the performance of students in the areas of skill development. The California Basic Educational Skills Test is designed to evaluate the skills necessary for California's future educators. The writing portion of the exam seeks to determine whether the person being tested can adequately express their thoughts in a written manner. The exam consists of two essay questions, a personal narrative and an expository essay. An expository essay is a nonfiction, informative piece of writing that is often found in newspapers or research reports. The expository portion of the test evaluates the student's ability to write coherently, factually, objectively, and error-free both in execution and mechanics.

Determine the objective of your written response. Every essay question has an indication of what type of response is necessary. Ask yourself what the essay topic really represents and what the most important information a reader needs about the topic. The CBEST exam questions will focus on information or events that have some relevancy to education in the state of California or to education, students or teachers in general. Expository pieces seek to inform, so you will need to determine the information that is relevant to the topic.

Outline your points or facts in order of importance. Take what you know about the topic and sketch out a brief outline. The best way to do this is by asking the "W" questions: who, what, where, when and why. These questions should be answered within your essay with clarity and authority. Do not put something in your essay unless you know it is truthful and keep opinions out of the essay. Write any important facts in the proper place in your outline.

Write your essay. Start with an introductory paragraph that includes the main topic of the essay and give a quick summation of the issue and any definitions that are relevant. Each successive paragraph should be dedicated to the next point you are wanting to make. Keep the paragraphs limited to one major point per paragraph and any details that support that major point. If you switch points, switch paragraphs. End your essay with a summarizing or concluding paragraph.

Proofread and correct. Review your essay for any errors such as punctuation or grammar. The CBEST exam evaluates essays on mechanics as well as content so ensure your piece is as error-free as you can make it. Check your essay's structure for clarity and flow. Are you points clear and does each paragraph logically move to the next point? Is every sentence relevant to your topic? Is your topic and concluding paragraph engaging? Does the entire piece inform your reader of the issue? Is the piece free of opinions? Does it sound logical and believable? Have you identified the heart of the matter or the basic components, then made those components clear to your reader? The exam will weigh all of these factors before awarding a score.

  • Expository writing is free of opinions so if any sentence starts with "I believe" or "I think", etc. remove it and replace with one that has clear factual information.
  • 1 California Basic Educational Skills Test: Test Specifications
  • 2 Education.com: Writing - Finishing Touches: CBEST Exam
  • 3 CBEST: California Basic Educational Skills Test: Program Overview

About the Author

Georgia Dennis has been writing since 1995, specializing in the areas of education, behavioral sciences, canine behaviors, human resources and language development. Her work has been published in literary journals, magazines and in print. She is also suspense novelist. Dennis is pursuing her Bachelor of General Studies, with an emphasis in writing and psychology, from Indiana University.

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CBEST Practice Test

CBEST Writing Practice Test

The CBEST Writing Test consists of two essay questions. One of them asks you to analyze a statement and the other one asks you to write about a personal experience. The test measures your ability to write effectively, which is an important skill needed for California educators. To prepare for your CBEST essays, read our writing guide and then try our free practice questions. After completing your responses you should review our sample essays to see what a high-scoring essay looks like.

CBEST Writing Guide

CBEST Writing Prompts

CBEST Writing Samples

CBEST Study Guide

If you are serious about getting a great score on your CBEST test, try out our recommended CBEST Online Course .

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5 Expository Essay Examples (Full Text with Citations)

  • Video Overview
  • Quick Example
  • Formatting Guide

An expository essay attempts to explain a topic in-depth, demonstrating expert knowledge and understanding.

This form of essay is structured around the clear, factual presentation of information, devoid of the writer’s personal opinions or arguments.

The primary goal is to inform or explain rather than persuade.

Unlike an argumentative essay, which is built around defending a particular point of view with evidence and persuasion, an expository essay maintains a neutral stance, focusing on delivering straightforward facts and explanations.

An example of expository writing could be an article explaining the process of photosynthesis.

The article would systematically describe each stage of how plants convert sunlight into energy, detailing the role of sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide.

It would explain the sequence of reactions – first, second, third, fourth, fifth – that occur and the importance of each step in supporting the life of the plant.

An expository essay generally follows this essay format:

expository essay format and structure template

  • A) To persuade the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint
  • B) To inform or explain a topic clearly
  • C) To present the writer’s personal opinions and arguments
  • D) To entertain the reader with creative writing
  • A) An expository essay uses creative storytelling techniques
  • B) An expository essay remains neutral and avoids personal opinions
  • C) An expository essay focuses on persuading the reader with evidence
  • D) An expository essay prioritizes the writer’s personal experiences

Expository Essay Examples

#1 impacts of technology on education.

955 words | 4 Pages | 15 References

impact of technology on education essay

Thesis Statement: “The integration of technology in education represents a complex and critical area of study crucial for understanding and shaping the future of educational practices.”

#2 Impacts of Globalization on Education

1450 words | 5 Pages | 9 References

impacts of globalization on education essay

Thesis Statement: “This essay examines the profound and multifaceted effects of globalization on education, exploring how technological advancements and policy reforms have transformed access to, delivery of, and perceptions of education.”

#3 The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Interpersonal Relationships

1211 Words | 5 Pages | 22 References

emotional intelligence essay

Thesis Statement: “The central thesis is that EI, defined as the ability to perceive, understand, and manage emotions, is a crucial determinant of success and well-being.”

#4 The Future of Renewable Energy Sources and Their Impact

870 words | 4 Pages | 20 References

renewable energy essay

Thesis Statement: “The essay posits that although renewable energy sources hold immense promise for a sustainable future, their full integration into the global energy grid presents significant challenges that must be addressed through technological innovation, economic investment, and policy initiatives.”

#5 The Psychology Behind Consumer Behavior

1053 words | 4 Pages | 17 References

consumer behavior essay

Thesis Statement: “The thesis of this essay is that consumer behavior is not merely a product of rational decision-making; it is deeply rooted in psychological processes, both conscious and subconscious, that drive consumers’ choices and actions.”

How to Write an Expository Essay

expository essay definition and features, explained below

Unlike argumentative or persuasive essays, expository essays do not aim to convince the reader of a particular point of view.

Instead, they focus on providing a balanced and thorough explanation of a subject.

Key characteristics of an expository essay include:

  • Clarity and Conciseness
  • Structured Organization (Introduction, Body, Conclusion)
  • Objective Tone
  • Evidence-Based (Cite academic sources in every body paragraph)
  • Objective thesis statement (see below)
  • Informative purpose (Not argumentative)

You can follow my expository essay templates with AI prompts to help guide you through the expository essay writing process:

Expository Essay Paragraph Guide

How to write a Thesis Statement for an Expository Essay

An expository thesis statement doesn’t make an argument or try to persuade. It uses ‘is’ rather than ‘ought’ statements.

Take these comparisons  below. Note how the expository thesis statements don’t prosecute an argument or attempt to persuade, while the argumentative thesis statements clearly take a side on an issue:

💡 AI Prompt for Generating Sample Expository Thesis Statements An expository essay’s thesis statement should be objective rather than argumentative. Write me five broad expository thesis statement ideas on the topic “[TOPIC]”.

Go Deeper: 101 Thesis Statement Examples

Differences Between Expository and Argumentative Essays

Expository and argumentative essays are both common writing styles in academic and professional contexts, but they serve different purposes and follow different structures.

Here are the key differences between them:

  • Expository Essay : The primary purpose is to explain, describe, or inform about a topic. It focuses on clarifying a subject or process, providing understanding and insight.
  • Argumentative Essay : The goal is to persuade the reader to accept a particular point of view or to take a specific action. It’s about presenting a stance and supporting it with evidence and logic.
  • Expository Essay : It maintains a neutral and objective tone. The writer presents information factually and impartially, without expressing personal opinions or biases.
  • Argumentative Essay : It often adopts a more assertive, persuasive, and subjective tone. The writer takes a clear position and argues in favor of it, using persuasive language.
  • Expository Essay : The reader is expected to gain knowledge, understand a process, or become informed about a topic. There’s no expectation for the reader to agree or disagree.
  • Argumentative Essay : The reader is encouraged to consider the writer’s viewpoint, evaluate arguments, and possibly be persuaded to adopt a new perspective or take action.

Go Deeper: Expository vs Argumentative Essays

Ready to Write your Essay?

Expository Essay Template

Take action! Choose one of the following options to start writing your expository essay now:

Read Next: Process Essay Examples

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Jun 25, 2023

Expository Essay Examples: Master the Art of Informative Writing with Examples and Tips

Are you looking to improve your expository essay writing skills? Want to learn from real-life examples and get practical tips? You've come to the right place! In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on expository essay writing, including examples and tips to help you master the art of informative writing!

This article is a comprehensive guide on expository essay writing, aimed at helping readers enhance their skills in informative writing. It will provide a thorough understanding of what an expository essay is, its purpose, structure, and key components. The article will also include a variety of examples covering different topics, styles, and formats of expository essays. Moreover, it will provide practical tips and techniques to help readers improve their writing skills and create well-crafted and engaging expository essays.

Ready to level up your expository essay writing skills? Sign up for our newsletter to receive regular updates, writing tips, and exclusive resources to help you become a master of informative writing!

What is an Expository Essay?

An expository essay is a form of writing that focuses on detailing or explaining a topic by presenting facts. It aims to provide information or describe a particular topic or concept clearly and concisely. They are often used in educational settings to assess a student's understanding of a subject, and they can also be found in professional and everyday writing.

A sort of academic writing known as an informative essay tries to educate readers about a specific topic. This kind of essay's goal is to inform the reader about the subject, not to support or refute a particular viewpoint. As a result, it calls on the author to provide information clearly and succinctly, supporting their statements with proof.

The Purpose of Expository Essay

The purpose of an expository essay is to convey factual information, provide an explanation or clarification of a complex concept, or describe a process or procedure. Unlike persuasive essays, which aim to convince the reader of a particular viewpoint, expository essays strive to present objective and evidence-based information without expressing personal opinions or biases.

Types of Expository Essays

There are several types of expository essays, including:

Descriptive essays: These essays focus on describing a person, place, object, event, or phenomenon in detail. The writer uses sensory details and vivid language to paint a clear picture for the reader.

Process essays: Also known as "how-to" essays, these essays explain a step-by-step process or procedure. They are often used to describe how something is done or how to accomplish a specific task.

Comparison/contrast essays: These essays analyze and highlight the similarities and differences between two or more subjects or concepts. They may focus on either the similarities or the differences, or both, and may be organized in a point-by-point or block method.

Cause and effect essays: These essays explore the relationship between a cause and its effects or consequences. They examine the reasons behind an event or phenomenon and its outcomes, and may also discuss multiple causes or effects.

Definition essays: These essays define and explain the meaning of a term, concept, or idea. They may provide a standard definition, a dictionary definition, or an extended definition that includes examples and explanations to clarify the meaning.

Problem/solution essays: These essays identify a problem or issue and propose possible solutions or ways to address it. They typically present evidence of the problem and then provide logical and well-supported solutions.

How to Write an Expository Essay

An expository essay typically consists of three main parts: an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. Each of these sections has a specific purpose and plays a crucial role in conveying the information or explaining the topic in a clear and organized manner.

Expository essays should be well-organized, with a clear introduction, body paragraphs that provide evidence and examples to support the main points, and a conclusion that summarizes the main ideas and restates the thesis statement. They should also be written in a formal and objective tone, avoiding personal opinions and biases, and citing credible sources when necessary to support the information presented.

Expository Essay Structure

Introduction: The introduction is the first part of the essay and serves to grab the reader's attention and provide a context for the topic. It typically includes an opening statement or hook that engages the reader, followed by some background information on the topic to provide context and establish the importance or relevance of the subject matter. The introduction should end with a clear and concise thesis statement, which is the main point or argument that will be developed and supported in the body paragraphs.

Body: The body of the essay is where the writer presents the main content and information on the topic. It usually consists of several paragraphs, each focusing on a separate subtopic or supporting point that is related to the thesis statement. Each body paragraph should have a topic sentence, which is a clear statement that introduces the main idea of the paragraph. The body paragraphs should provide evidence, examples, facts, statistics, or other relevant information to support the main idea or thesis statement. It is important to use logical and coherent transitions between paragraphs and ideas to ensure a smooth flow of information and ideas.

Conclusion: The conclusion is the final part of the essay and serves to summarize the main points and restate the thesis statement differently. It should not introduce new information but rather provide a concise summary of the key ideas discussed in the body paragraphs. The conclusion should leave a lasting impression on the reader and provide a sense of closure to the essay. It may also include a call to action, a reflection, or a final thought that encourages further thinking or exploration of the topic.

Overall, the structure of an expository essay should be well-organized, with a clear and engaging introduction , informative body paragraphs, and a concise and impactful conclusion. Following a coherent structure helps the reader to understand the information presented and enhances the overall effectiveness of the essay.

Key Components of Expository Essays: Thesis Statement, Evidence, and Analysis 

Expository essays typically include several key components that work together to effectively convey information and explain a topic or concept. These components include:

Thesis Statement: The thesis statement is a clear and concise statement that presents the main point or argument of the essay. It is usually located in the introduction and serves as a roadmap for the rest of the essay. The thesis statement should be specific, focused, and debatable, and it should indicate what the essay will be about. It provides a clear direction for the essay and helps the reader understand the main purpose or point of the writing.

Evidence: Evidence is the information, facts, examples, statistics, or other types of support that the writer uses to substantiate the thesis statement and make the essay more credible and persuasive. Evidence should be reliable, relevant, and properly cited from credible sources. It helps to back up the claims made in the essay and provides support for the ideas and arguments presented.

Analysis: Analysis is the process of examining, interpreting, and explaining the evidence presented in the essay. It involves breaking down the evidence and discussing its significance, relevance, and implications for the thesis statement. Analysis helps to demonstrate the writer's critical thinking skills and ability to conclude from the evidence. It also provides a deeper understanding of the topic and strengthens the overall argument of the essay.

Organization and Structure: The organization and structure of the essay are important components of expository writing. The essay should be well-organized with a clear and logical flow of ideas. The introduction should introduce the topic and present the thesis statement, the body paragraphs should present evidence and analysis in a coherent and organized manner, and the conclusion should summarize the main points and restate the thesis statement. The paragraphs should be structured with a topic sentence, supporting evidence, and analysis to ensure clarity and coherence.

Clarity and Conciseness: Clarity and conciseness are essential components of expository essays. The writing should be clear, easy to understand, and free of ambiguity. Complex concepts should be explained straightforwardly and concisely. The use of appropriate language, precise vocabulary, and clear sentence structure helps to convey the information effectively and makes the essay more reader-friendly.

In summary, key components of expository essays include a clear and debatable thesis statement, reliable evidence, thorough analysis, effective organization and structure, and clarity and conciseness in writing. These components work together to present information in a coherent, informative, and persuasive manner.

Examples of Expository Essays:

The importance of recycling for environmental conservation .

The importance of recycling for environmental conservation is a crucial topic that can be explored in an expository essay. The essay could delve into the significance of recycling in reducing waste, conserving natural resources, and mitigating environmental pollution.

The thesis statement for this essay could be something like: "Recycling plays a pivotal role in environmental conservation by reducing waste, conserving natural resources, and mitigating pollution, thereby contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future."

The body paragraphs of the essay could discuss the following key points:

Waste reduction: The essay could explain how recycling helps in reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills or incinerators. It could discuss the environmental impacts of landfilling and incineration, such as soil and water contamination, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. The essay could also highlight the importance of reducing waste generation through recycling, as well as the role of waste reduction strategies, such as source reduction and waste minimization.

Conservation of natural resources: The essay could elaborate on how recycling conserves natural resources, such as timber, water, and minerals. It could discuss the extraction and processing of raw materials for manufacturing and the environmental impacts associated with resource extraction, such as deforestation, water pollution, and habitat destruction. The essay could also highlight the benefits of recycling in reducing the demand for virgin materials, conserving natural resources, and promoting a circular economy.

Mitigation of pollution: The essay could discuss how recycling helps in mitigating environmental pollution. It could explore the environmental impacts of pollution, such as air pollution, water pollution, and soil contamination, and how recycling helps in reducing pollution by reducing the need for extraction, processing, and manufacturing of raw materials. The essay could also discuss the importance of proper waste management practices, such as recycling programs, waste separation, and recycling technologies, in preventing pollution and protecting the environment.

The conclusion of the essay could summarize the main points discussed in the body paragraphs and reinforce the importance of recycling for environmental conservation. It could emphasize the need for individuals, communities, and governments to promote and participate in recycling practices to protect the environment and contribute to a more sustainable future.

The Impact of Technology on Modern Society

The impact of technology on modern society is a widely debated and intriguing topic that can be explored in an expository essay. The essay could delve into the various ways in which technology has influenced and transformed different aspects of modern society, including communication, economy, education, healthcare, and social interactions.

The thesis statement for this essay could be something like: "Technology has had a profound impact on modern society, revolutionizing communication, transforming the economy, revolutionizing education and healthcare, and reshaping social interactions."

Communication: The essay could explore how technology has revolutionized communication in modern society. It could discuss the advent of the internet, social media, smartphones, and other communication technologies, and how they have transformed the way people interact, communicate, and share information. The essay could also discuss the benefits and challenges of modern communication technologies, such as increased connectivity, global reach, and instant communication, as well as issues related to privacy, cyberbullying, and misinformation.

Economy: The essay could elaborate on how technology has transformed the economy in modern society. It could discuss the impact of automation, artificial intelligence, and digitalization on the job market, businesses, and industries. The essay could also discuss the benefits and challenges of technology in the economy, such as increased efficiency, economic growth, and job displacement, as well as issues related to inequality, workforce skill gaps, and the digital divide.

Education and healthcare: The essay could discuss how technology has revolutionized education and healthcare in modern society. It could explore the use of technology in online learning, e-learning platforms, and virtual classrooms, as well as the impact of telemedicine, electronic health records, and health monitoring devices on healthcare delivery. The essay could also discuss the benefits and challenges of technology in education and healthcare, such as increased access, personalized learning, and improved patient care, as well as issues related to data privacy, accessibility, and ethics.

Social interactions: The essay could explore how technology has reshaped social interactions in modern society. It could discuss the impact of social media, online communities, and virtual reality on human relationships, socialization, and identity formation. The essay could also discuss the benefits and challenges of technology in social interactions, such as increased connectivity, social awareness, and online activism, as well as issues related to social isolation, addiction, and cyberbullying.

The conclusion of the essay could summarize the main points discussed in the body paragraphs and highlight the complex and multifaceted impact of technology on modern society. It could emphasize the need for critical analysis, ethical considerations, and responsible use of technology to harness its benefits and mitigate its challenges in shaping the future of society.

The Process of Making Chocolate from Cocoa Beans

The process of making chocolate from cocoa beans is a fascinating and complex process that can be explored in an expository essay. The essay could detail the different stages involved in the production of chocolate, from harvesting cocoa beans to the final product that we enjoy.

The thesis statement for this essay could be something like: "The process of making chocolate from cocoa beans involves several stages, including harvesting and fermenting cocoa beans, drying and roasting, grinding and conching, and tempering and molding, which collectively result in the delicious chocolate we savor."

Harvesting and fermenting cocoa beans: The essay could describe the process of harvesting cocoa beans, which are typically grown in tropical regions. It could explain how cocoa pods are harvested, and the seeds (cocoa beans) are extracted from the pods. The essay could also detail the crucial step of fermenting cocoa beans, which involves allowing them to ferment in banana leaves or wooden boxes for a few days. This process is essential for developing the flavor and aroma of the chocolate.

Drying and roasting: The essay could discuss the next step of drying and roasting the fermented cocoa beans. It could explain how the beans are spread out and dried in the sun or using artificial drying methods to reduce their moisture content. The essay could then detail the roasting process, where the dried cocoa beans are roasted to bring out their rich flavor and aroma. The temperature and duration of roasting can vary depending on the desired characteristics of the chocolate.

Grinding and conching: The essay could describe the grinding and conching process, where the roasted cocoa beans are ground into a fine paste. It could explain how the grinding process involves using heavy machinery or stone grinders to reduce the cocoa beans into a liquid called cocoa liquor or cocoa mass. The essay could then detail the conching process, which involves mixing the cocoa liquor with sugar, vanilla, and other ingredients, and continuously stirring and kneading the mixture to develop its smooth texture and remove any bitterness.

Tempering and molding: The essay could explain the final steps of tempering and molding the chocolate. It could describe how the tempered chocolate is heated and cooled to specific temperatures to stabilize its crystalline structure and give it a shiny appearance and a satisfying snap when bitten. The essay could then detail the process of pouring the tempered chocolate into molds and allowing it to set, resulting in the familiar shapes and forms of chocolate bars, truffles, or other confections.

The conclusion of the essay could summarize the main steps involved in the process of making chocolate from cocoa beans and highlight the complexity and artistry involved in crafting this beloved treat. It could also emphasize the importance of sustainability, fair trade practices, and ethical considerations in the cocoa industry to ensure the sustainability and social responsibility of chocolate production.

Essay inspiration ideas for Expository Essays:

Expository essays are a common type of academic writing that aims to explain or describe a particular topic or concept. If you are looking for inspiration for an expository essay, here are some ideas:

The benefits and drawbacks of social media: In this essay, you could explore how social media has changed our society, for better or for worse. You could discuss the impact of social media on communication, relationships, mental health, and privacy.

The importance of education: This essay could focus on the benefits of education, such as increased earning potential, improved job opportunities, and personal growth. You could also explore the challenges faced by students, such as access to education, funding, and discrimination.

The impact of technology on our lives: This essay could explore how technology has changed the way we live, work, and communicate informative essays, expository essay examples, and structure. You could discuss the impact of technology on various aspects of our lives, such as health, education, relationships, and the environment.

The effects of climate change: In this essay, you could explore the causes and effects of climate change, as well as the measures that can be taken to mitigate its impact. You could also discuss the challenges faced by policymakers, scientists, and individuals in addressing this global issue.

The history and impact of a particular invention or innovation: This essay could focus on the history and impact of a particular invention or innovation, such as the internet, the automobile, or the smartphone. You could explore the cultural, social, and economic impact of the invention, as well as its future potential.

These are just a few ideas to inspire your expository essay. Remember to choose a topic that interests you and that you have knowledge of so that you can provide an informative and engaging essay.

Tips for Writing Expository Essays:

Conducting thorough research papers and using reliable sources.

Conducting thorough research papers and using reliable sources is essential for writing a high-quality expository essay. Here are some tips to help you with this aspect of your essay:

Start with reputable sources: Use reliable sources for your research, such as peer-reviewed journals, reputable websites, books from reputable publishers, and credible experts in the field. Avoid using unreliable sources, such as blogs, forums, or Wikipedia , as they may not always provide accurate or credible information.

Verify the credibility of sources: Assess the credibility of your sources by evaluating the author's expertise, the publication or organization's reputation, and the evidence and references provided. Look for sources that are well-known, peer-reviewed, and published in reputable journals or by respected organizations.

Use multiple sources: Rely on a variety of sources to gather diverse perspectives and evidence on your topic. Avoid over-relying on a single source, as it may introduce bias or limit the validity of your arguments. Use a mix of primary and secondary sources, and strive for a balanced representation of different viewpoints.

Conduct thorough research: Take the time to conduct in-depth research on your topic, using various sources to gather comprehensive and reliable information. Take notes, highlight key points, and organize your research findings to facilitate later reference and citation.

Fact-check your information: Double-check the accuracy of your information by cross-referencing it with multiple sources. Verify facts, statistics, and data to ensure they are reliable and up-to-date. Avoid spreading misinformation or making unsupported claims in your essay.

Cite your sources properly: Give credit to the original authors by properly citing your sources in your essay. Follow the appropriate citation style, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago, and provide in-text citations and a bibliography or works cited page at the end of your essay. This shows academic integrity and allows readers to verify your information.

By conducting thorough research and using reliable sources, you can ensure that your expository essay is based on accurate and credible information, enhancing its credibility and persuasiveness.

b. Crafting a Clear and Concise Thesis Statement:

Your thesis statement should be a clear and concise statement that summarizes the main point or argument of your essay.

It should be specific and focused, indicating what the essay will discuss or argue.

Avoid vague or broad thesis statements that lack clarity or precision.

Revise and refine your thesis statement as you develop your essay to ensure it aligns with the content and structure of your essay.

c. Organizing Ideas and Information in a Logical and Cohesive Manner:

Organize your essay logically and coherently, following a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

Use appropriate headings, subheadings, or transitions to guide the reader through your essay and make it easy to follow.

Group related ideas and information together, and present them in a logical and coherent sequence.

Use effective paragraph structure with topic sentences, supporting details, and clear transitions to ensure smooth flow and coherence in your essay.

d. Providing Strong Evidence and Analysis to Support Arguments:

Support your arguments or claims with strong evidence from reliable sources, such as facts, statistics, research findings, or expert quotes.

Analyze and interpret the evidence to explain how it supports your argument and why it is relevant to your topic.

Avoid unsupported assertions or generalizations, and strive to provide compelling evidence that strengthens your argument and makes your essay persuasive.

e. Using Appropriate Language and Tone for the Target Audience:

Consider your target audience and use language and tone that is appropriate and engaging for them.

Use clear, concise, and precise language to convey your ideas and arguments.

Avoid jargon, technical terms, or complex language that may confuse or alienate your readers.

Consider the tone of your essay, whether it should be formal, objective, or subjective, depending on your topic and audience.

f. Revising, Editing, and Proofreading for Clarity and Precision:

Revise and edit your essay carefully to ensure clarity, precision, and coherence in your writing.

Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors, and make necessary corrections.

Review your essay for logical flow, coherence, and consistency in ideas and arguments.

Seek feedback from peers, teachers, or mentors to get different perspectives and improve your essay.

By incorporating these tips into your writing process, you can elevate the quality of your expository essay, making it more compelling, informative, and impactful for your readers.

Conclusion: 

In conclusion, expository essays serve as a valuable form of informative writing, providing readers with a balanced understanding of a specific topic. To excel in this art, conduct thorough research, craft a clear thesis statement, organize ideas logically, provide strong evidence, and revise for clarity. By mastering these techniques, you can create engaging, informative, and credible expository essays.

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cbest expository essay examples

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  1. CBEST Writing Samples

    Review these responses for an example of two high-scoring essays. These CBEST sample essays follow the template that's in our CBEST Writing Guide. Below each example is a short commentary which explains why it is an effective essay and why it would receive a high score. Topic 1. We all face obstacles in our lives, but there are no obstacles ...

  2. CBEST Writing Examples: Test Questions, Tips, and Dates 2024

    CBEST Writing Tips. The CBEST Test has a scoring system that ranks each essay from 1-4. A "4" is a well-written essay that effectively communicates a whole message to the intended audience. To communicate your message effectively keep in mind the following tips: Clearly present a central idea or point of view while maintaining focus on that topic.

  3. Essay Writing Practice and Prompts for the CBEST

    Prompt 6: Consider a book, film, or piece of art that profoundly affected you. In an essay to be read by an audience of educated adults, discuss why this piece was so impactful and how it has influenced your thoughts or behavior. Provide specific examples and details from the piece to support your points.

  4. How to Write the CBEST Writing Section Essays

    How to Write the CBEST Expository Essay in 5 Steps. An expository essay is simply an essay in which you present an argument and then support it, using evidence. A simple, college argumentative essay is an expository essay. And that is the second kind of an essay you have to write on the CBEST writing test. It is also known as an opinion essay.

  5. PDF CBEST® Practice Test

    This document is a paper-based version of the CBEST® Computer-Administered Practice Test for the Writing section. For this practice test, you may wish to write responses to the writing topics and ask a mentor, advisor, or teacher to evaluate them. Sample responses are included in this practice test for your use when evaluating your practice ...

  6. CBEST Writing Study Guide & Practice Test

    The CBEST Writing Test consists of two essays. Overall, a one-hour and 20-minute block is allotted for both CBEST writing prompts, so all of the necessary work must be done inside of this block. To avoid going over the allotted time period, a good idea is to look at the CBEST writing examples beforehand to get a general sense of what to expect ...

  7. CBEST Writing

    Make notes or an outline before you start writing. Your writing should be in the first person ("I"). Your writing should be neat and legible. You should write in pencil. Remember to check your writing after you have finished. Finally, be cautious about using sample essays on essay cheat sites online as a guide for your essay writing ...

  8. How to Do Well on the CBEST Writing Section

    Step 1: Understand the Prompt. Before you begin writing, it is critical to ensure that you fully understand the essay prompt. This is a crucial step as misinterpreting the prompt could lead you to write an off-topic essay, no matter how well-written it might be. Take a few moments to read and reread the prompt.

  9. CBEST Writing Practice Test: CBEST Writing Prompts & Tips

    The Expository Essay - Where you have to make an analytical essay on the topic supplied to you. This means that you should be careful not to mistake one for the other and make good use of CBEST writing essay samples and other CBEST writing tips and techniques as the mere volume will not get you anywhere and can even prove disastrous to your ...

  10. CBEST Essays

    CBEST Essays - Expository Essays. You must write two CBEST essays for the California Basic Educational Skills Test. The first of these essays will be the personal essay question. The second type of essay that you will have to write for the test is the expository type of essay. Click here for more information on our CBEST Sample Essays and ...

  11. Writing Study Guide for the CBEST

    The topics you are given will be these: Topic #1: This essay will require you to recount a memory of a personal experience. Topic #2: For this essay, you'll need to write about a given topic, giving information about it and analyzing that information. Example Topic #1. Most people can remember a time in their lives when the world seemed to ...

  12. CBEST Writing Study Guide: with Sample CBEST Essays and…

    Part 1 of the study guide provides an overview of the format of both the CBEST expository essay and the CBEST personal experience essay.Part 1 of the book also explains how your CBEST essays are assessed and tells you how to avoid common errors in order to raise your exam score.Part 2 guides you through the expository essay writing process ...

  13. CBEST writing practice test with question examples & essay samples

    CBEST writing practice test - Free grammar exercises, question prompt examples & essay samples. Tips and strategies to ace the test. PDF download at https://...

  14. How to Write an Expository Essay

    The structure of your expository essay will vary according to the scope of your assignment and the demands of your topic. It's worthwhile to plan out your structure before you start, using an essay outline. A common structure for a short expository essay consists of five paragraphs: An introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

  15. How to Write an Expository Essay for the CBEST Exam

    Standardized tests are designed to measure the performance of students in the areas of skill development. The California Basic Educational Skills Test is designed to evaluate the skills necessary for California's future educators. The writing portion of the exam seeks to determine whether the person being tested ...

  16. CBEST Writing Practice Test

    The CBEST Writing Test consists of two essay questions. One of them asks you to analyze a statement and the other one asks you to write about a personal experience. The test measures your ability to write effectively, which is an important skill needed for California educators. To prepare for your CBEST essays, read our writing guide and then ...

  17. 5 Expository Essay Examples (Full Text with Citations)

    Unlike argumentative or persuasive essays, expository essays do not aim to convince the reader of a particular point of view. Instead, they focus on providing a balanced and thorough explanation of a subject. Key characteristics of an expository essay include: Clarity and Conciseness; Structured Organization (Introduction, Body, Conclusion)

  18. Expository Essay Examples: Master the Art of Informative Writing with

    Types of Expository Essays. There are several types of expository essays, including: Descriptive essays: These essays focus on describing a person, place, object, event, or phenomenon in detail. The writer uses sensory details and vivid language to paint a clear picture for the reader. Process essays: Also known as "how-to" essays, these essays ...

  19. How to Write an Expository Essay (Professor Approved Guide)

    Step One: Research Your Topic. An expository essay starts with research. You need to understand the topic before you write about it. You also need to understand what points the reader needs to know to comprehend the subject. The internet has been outstanding in terms of helping people get access to information.

  20. How to Write an Expository Essay? (16 Best Examples)

    Expository Essay Writing is a genre of essay that tends to explain, illustrate, clarify, or explicate something with a neutral viewpoint so that it becomes apparent to the readers. The word expository is derived from exposition, which is a noun of exposing. Expose means to lay or uncover something bare so that others understand what it is exactly.

  21. Cbest Expository Essay Examples

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