What to Do
Complete the following task to show what you have learned about choosing a topic for an expository essay. While you work through the task, think about whether you are achieving the goal. You may want to review an example of an expository topic selection before you begin. 

Task: Choose a topic for your expository essay. 

Goal: Show that you can select an appropriate topic and a specific type of expository writing.

See the example: Microsoft Word* or PDF

1. Choose a topic that interests you for your expository essay. You can use one of the following Web sites to help you choose. You may want to check with your teacher to make sure it is an appropriate topic.
   
   Arts and Literature
   
   • The Collection* at the National Gallery of Art*
   • Art Museums* from Kidspace @ the Internet Public Library*
   • Reading Zone* from Kidspace @ the Internet Public Library*
   • Masters List A-Z* from American Masters* at PBS*
   
   History
   
   • Kidipede—History for Kids* from Dr. Karen Carr, Portland State University
   • America's Story* from the Library of Congress*
   • History for Kids* from the BBC*
   • The History Channel* from the A&E Television Networks*
   
   Math
   
   • Homework Center Mathematics* from Fact Monster*
   • Ask Dr. Math* from Drexel University*
   • Activities for Grades 6-8* from NCTM Illuminations*
   
   Science
   
   • Rivers 2001* from National Geographic*
   • Bagheera: Endangered Species* from Endangered Earth*
   • Global Warming (What It Is)* from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency*
   • Windows to the Universe* from the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research*
     
     
2. Start a new word processing document. Always remember to type your name and the date at the top of the document.
   
   
3. Think of a title that describes your topic. Type a title for the document.
   
   
4. Write a few paragraphs describing the topic for your expository essay. Make sure you address each of the following questions:
   
   
   • Why did you choose the topic?
   • What do you want to explain?
   • Whom do you want to inform?
   • What type of expository writing can you use to explain the topic?
   • What do you need to know about the topic to write an expository essay?
     
     
5. Remember to save your document frequently while you work.
   
   
6. Check the spelling and grammar in your paragraphs.
   
   
7. Double-check your work by reading the document carefully one more time.
   
   
8. Review the checklist and revise your topic explanation to make sure it is complete.
   
   
9. Save your document.
   
   
10. Share your topic.