STAAR EOC Writing

State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness End-of-Course Writing exam.

Understanding the STAAR EOC Writing ExamGrammar, Usage, and ConventionsEssay Organization and Development
Writing Persuasive and Expository EssaysRevision, Editing, and ProofreadingDeveloping Voice and Style
Applying Writing Skills in Everyday LifeWriting for Digital CommunicationCollaborative Writing and Peer Review
Time Management During the ExamAnswering Multiple-Choice Questions EffectivelyStaying Calm and Focused
Understanding the ST...Grammar, Usage, and ...Essay Organization a...Writing Persuasive a...Revision, Editing, a...Developing Voice and...Applying Writing Ski...Writing for Digital ...Collaborative Writin...Time Management Duri...Answering Multiple-C...Staying Calm and Foc...
Advanced Topics

Writing Persuasive and Expository Essays

Two Major Essay Types

The STAAR EOC Writing exam often asks you to write either a persuasive or an expository essay.

Persuasive Essay

  • Goal: Convince the reader of your point of view.
  • How: State your opinion, use strong reasons, and support them with evidence.

Expository Essay

  • Goal: Explain an idea or process clearly.
  • How: Present facts, give examples, and organize your writing logically.

Key Strategies

  • Know what type of essay you are being asked to write.
  • Stay focused on the prompt.
  • Use specific examples and clear explanations.

Real-Life Application

Persuasive writing is used in opinion articles, advertisements, and debates. Expository writing helps explain processes or ideas in reports, how-to guides, or instructions.

Examples

  • Writing an essay convincing your school to adopt a longer lunch break.

  • Explaining the steps for recycling in your community.

In a Nutshell

Understanding essay types helps you answer the prompt and organize your writing correctly.

Key Terms

Persuasive Essay
A type of essay that aims to convince the reader to agree with the writer’s opinion.
Expository Essay
A type of essay that explains or informs about a topic.
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Revision, Editing, and Proofreading