4 Types of Writing

There are four main types of writing: expository, persuasive, narrative, and descriptive.

• Expository – Writing in which author’s purpose is to inform or explain the subject to the reader.
• Persuasive – Writing that states the opinion of the writer and attempts to influence the reader.
• Narrative – Writing in which the author tells a story. The story could be fact or fiction.
• Descriptive – A type of expository writing that uses the five senses to paint a picture for the reader. This writing incorporates imagery and specific details.

Identify which type of writing is being described.

1. ______________ A story about the time you got lost at Disneyland
2. ______________ A web page telling how to create a web page
3. ______________ The Harry Potter books
4. ______________ A letter to the governor explaining why the tax increase is a bad idea
5. ______________ Writing in which you record details of a trip taken
6. ______________ An essay discussing a theme from Romeo and Juliet
7. ______________ An article attempting to convince readers to boycott a store chain
8. ______________ A poem about the sights and sounds of rainfall
9. ______________ A paper about the horrible treatment of the people in Darfur
10. ______________ The cover story in the morning newspaper
11. ______________ A brochure advertising a luxury hotel and resort
12. ______________ A paper discussing the after effects of a war