Exposition text

Definition 

Exposition text or argument text is a series of sentences that aim to explain one idea from one point of view to the reader. The text is made to make it easier for readers to understand the topic of the discussion in the text.

If you translate the word " exposition " itself, you will get the word exposition or description. So, this text is indeed used to describe a subject or topic. With this description, you will know more about the topic or subject.

It was a text that summarizes various arguments about an idea or topic from the author. Since this is written based on the author's view, there is a high probability that readers will disagree with that view. As a result, other views try to refute the writer's view. This is where the arguments take place, which can form the basis for the emergence of new and better ideas.

Purpose

The purpose of an exposition text can be different, some are aimed at influencing or convincing the reader to think from the author's point of view, some are aimed at making the reader aware of the existence of an issue.

Types of exposition text

There are two types of exposition text, an analytical exposition, and hortatory exposition.

1. Analytical Exposition

This type of text begins with an explanation of the author's opinion on the theme being discussed. Then, arguments followed in support of that opinion. Finally, the author closes by affirming the opinion at the beginning. You can also rewrite the opinion,. In the analytical exposition, your ideas and views are displayed prominently at the beginning. Followed by a supporting opinion to make the reader understand.

2. Hortatory Exposition

For this one, the text begins with an explanation of the theme or problem being discussed. Then, the evidence and arguments supporting the topic are written. And, this argument is also made so that you as a reader, know or even better agree with the opinion of the author. In the end, the author closes with a solution, suggestion, or recommendation about the problem written at the beginning. for hortatory exposition, you reverse the process. Problems at the beginning continued with argumentation, and all of that was designed to convey your opinion

Generic structure

Analytical Exposition

1. Thesis

As with other types of text in general, a thesis contains the author's view of a problem in a simple manner. This section is an introduction to the topic or main idea to be discussed. The thesis is always in the first paragraph of the Analytical Exposition Text.

2. Argument

This section contains some further explanations from the simple explanation of the thesis. In this section, the writer presents arguments or opinions that support the main idea of ​​the author. The more arguments that are presented, the more readers will believe that the topic being discussed is important. It is better if this section presents the opinion of the experts.

3. Conclusion / Reiteration

This section is the closing section which is always located at the end of the paragraph which contains rewriting or repositioning of the main ideas contained in the first paragraph.

Hortatory Exposition

1. Thesis

Contains the opinion of the author or speaker regarding the topic in question.

2. Arguments

Arguments contain opinions that support the main idea. The more opinions that are written, the more interesting a Hortatory Exposition Text is because readers or listeners tend to believe in an event if there are many supporting opinions in it.

3. Recommendation

Unlike the Analytical Exposition text which has a Conclusion, this text has a recommendation section for the reader to conclude the text. Recommendations contain suggestions addressed to readers on related topics discussed in the text.

Although the two are similar, there are slight differences between the two. In the hortatory exposition, after the thesis and argument, unlike the analytical exposition, there are recommendation instead of conclusion/reiteration

Linguistic Features

Generalized participants

Usually, this element appears when the writing is about things that are difficult to describe physically. Therefore, the exposition text will display words like issues, opinions, ideas, and others.

Emotive Words

This one element is used to touch the emotions of the text reader. Not only to create sympathy but sometimes we can also use it to make the reader reject an idea. The words that usually appear and are grouped into this category are, for example, innocent, concern, monster, and others.

Technical Terms

From the name, you must understand what this is, right? True, this is a special term that is only found on the topic under discussion. For example, if there is an exposition of the text that discusses computers, you will definitely encounter words such as motherboard, resolutions, processor, operating system, and others.

Connectors

Can also be called a liaison, because its function is to connect. This one element consists of words which are conjunctions. For example, therefore, because of, furthermore, moreover, and others.

These words function to connect two or more sentences. And, this is one of the most important elements of in-text exposition. Why?

Sentences are connected properly, will create a flow or current reading palatable for readers the follow. With this good flow, writers can easily convey their ideas. In fact, writers who can take advantage of this flow can strongly implant their ideas in the minds of readers.

Grammar

The last is the type of grammar used. In general, most exposition text uses the Simple Present Tense. Also, there are many passive sentences in this text.

The use of these two types of sentences is very reasonable because the main purpose of exposition text is to explain or describe an idea or fact. So, this type of grammar is suitable for the purposes of this explanation.

One more feature that you may also need to know is the use of the word " you ". Mostly, exposition text does not use this word. The author prefers to use the word " we " rather than " you". Why?

As we have already explained, the main purpose of exposition text is to convey an idea and if possible make the reader agree with the idea. The word "you" signifies one person. Meanwhile, "we" is a plural or compound indication.

This means that by using "we", the writer will make you, as a reader, feel that the idea is also approved by many people. By strengthening this element of generalization, the writer will find it easier to invite readers to also agree with the author's opinion.

It just doesn't make sense. However, behind a text, there is a strong psychological element. After all, the text was made to convey a message, right? And, whether the message is accepted or not, is influenced by the state of mind and heart of the reader, which is an element in the field of psychology.

There are some linguistic elements of the text exposition. Understanding them will help you to write text in this style. Or, it is also easier for you to recognize the text of the type of exposition on the reading source you are using. It also helps you to understand the context of the text.

for example;

Analytical Exposition example;

The Importance of Breakfast

Why is breakfast important? “Breakfast like a King, Lunch like a Prince and Dine like a Pauper” It’s a well-known phrase, but do you follow it?

Breakfast provides many benefits to our health and wellbeing. Breakfast provides the body and brain with fuel after an overnight fast – that’s where its name originates, breaking the fast! Without breakfast, you are effectively running on empty, like trying to start the car with no petrol!
Breakfast supports cognitive function. Breakfast also restores glucose levels, an essential carbohydrate that is needed for the brain to function. Breakfast provides energy, studies have shown how eating breakfast can improve memory and concentration levels and it can also make us happier as it can improve mood and lower stress levels.

Breakfast provides energy needs. People’s energy needs vary depending on activity levels and life stage but typically men require more energy than women. Growing children require a lot of energy, as an example boys aged 7-10 years should consume approximately 1970 kcals per day, and girls aged 7-10 years should consume approximately 1740 kcals.

Hortatory Exposition example;

Monitoring Kids While Watching TV
Television becomes one of the most important devices which takes place in almost houses. It can unite all members of the family as well as separate them. However, is it important to know what your kids are watching? The answer is, of course, absolutely “Yes” and that should be done by all parents. Television can expose things you have tried to protect the children from, especially violence, pornography, consumerism, and so on.

Recently, a study demonstrated that spending too much time watching TV during the day or at bedtime often causes bed-time disruption, stress, and short sleep duration.
Another research found that there is a significant relationship between the amount of time spent watching television during adolescence and early adulthood, and the possibility of being aggressive.
Meanwhile, many studies have identified a relationship between kids who watch TV a lot and being inactive and overweight.
Considering some facts mentioning above, protect your children with the following tips:
1. Limit television viewing to one-two hours each day
2. Do not allow your children to have a TV set in their own bedrooms
3. Review the rating of TV shows which your children watch
4. Watch television with your children and discuss what is happening in the show