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1. Expository Text Outline #4
I. THEORETICAL REVIEW
Question 1. What role does an expository text play in daily life?
Answer: Expository texts have an important role in society as they are a common text type used to provide knowledge and information about characteristics, causes, and effects of various phenomena in nature and society by describing, introducing, and explaining issues.
Question 2. How do expository texts differ from narrative, descriptive, expressive, and argumentative texts?
Answer:
The key feature of a narrative text is recounting events.
The key feature of a descriptive text is vividly painting the scene or object, allowing the images to come alive before the reader's eyes.
The key feature of an expressive text is conveying the writer’s thoughts, emotions, and feelings.
The key feature of an argumentative text is using logical reasoning and structured arguments to explain various issues.
The key feature of an expository text is explaining phenomena, helping readers understand their characteristics, causes, and effects.
Question 3. What must one prepare to write a good expository essay? What should an expository essay emphasize?
Answer:
- To write a good expository essay, the writer should carefully observe the subject matter using a “seeing and hearing” approach.
Writers should gather and explore related materials, ensuring the information they provide is accurate and reliable for writing.
- Depending on the topic, an expository essay should highlight unique aspects of the subject, such as its appearance, characteristics, history, significance, and value.
Question 4. What common methods are used in expository writing?
Answer: The following methods are frequently used in expository writing:
a) Defining and explaining terms.
b) Listing facts or features.
c) Providing examples.
d) Using statistical data.
e) Making comparisons.
f) Categorizing and analyzing concepts.
II. PRACTICE
Question 1. Write an outline and argument for the following topics:
a) Introduce a household item.
b) Introduce a famous tourist attraction.
c) Introduce a literary work or genre.
d) Introduce a method (such as making school supplies or conducting experiments).
Sample introduction (for reference):
a) Introducing a household item: The Washing Machine (Outline)
Introduction: - My mother recently purchased a Sanyo washing machine.
- Reason for purchase: To ease some of the household chores.
Body: - Shape: Rectangular.
- Color: Off-white.
- Features: Top-opening lid, with electrical cables and water pipes at the back. Water drainage valve is located at the bottom.
- Usage: Open the lid, place clothes inside, add detergent, close the lid, set the drainage pipe low, plug in the machine, and press the button to start. When done, the machine automatically shuts off. Once you hear the notification sound, open the lid, remove the clothes, and dry them, then close the machine.
Conclusion: The convenience of the washing machine.
b) Introduce a famous tourist attraction: See the article on Phong Nha Cave, page 144 of the 9th Grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2.
c) Introduce a literary genre:
Question 2. Write a paragraph based on the following topics:
a) Introduce a household item.
b) Introduce a famous tourist attraction.
c) Introduce a literary work or genre.
d) Introduce a type of flower or plant, such as a banana tree or sugar apple tree.
e) Introduce an animal species.
f) Introduce a Vietnamese traditional product or game.
2. Expository Text Outline #5
Question 1, page 35, 8th-grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2
Expository texts play a role in providing knowledge about the characteristics, qualities, and causes of various phenomena and objects in nature and society.
Question 2, page 35, 8th-grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2
1. Expository Texts: Provide precise, objective knowledge about objects and phenomena.
2. Narrative Texts: Tell stories about events and characters in a sequential manner.
3. Expressive Texts: Convey the writer's emotions and feelings.
4. Descriptive Texts: Recreate vivid depictions of objects and phenomena.
5. Argumentative Texts: Present arguments and points of view.
Question 3, page 35, 8th-grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2
To write a successful expository text, attention should be given to:
Observing and gathering knowledge about the subject of exposition.
Having an objective perspective on the subject being described.
An expository text must highlight the essential characteristics and qualities of the subject matter.
Question 4, page 35, 8th-grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2
Common methods used in expository writing:
Defining
Explaining
Listing
Providing examples
Using data
Making comparisons
Analyzing and classifying.
II. Practice
Question 1, page 35, 8th-grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2
Structuring ideas for outlines:
a) Introducing a study or household item:
Introduce the item in general
Describe the structure and features of the item
Explain its uses
Provide instructions on how to use the item
Explain how to care for the item
b) Introducing a famous landmark in your hometown:
Provide a general introduction to the landmark
Describe its features (location, size, beauty, etc.)
Explain the number of visitors who come each year
c) Explaining a text or a literary genre studied:
Provide a general overview of the text or genre studied
Identify the type of text or genre
Describe the characteristics of the text or genre:
If it is a text, mention details about the author, work, content, and artistic style
If it is a genre, discuss its distinguishing features
d) Introducing how to make a study item:
Provide a general introduction to the study item
Describe its features and uses
Explain the basic steps in making the item
Describe the item after it has been completed.
Question 2, page 36, 8th-grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2
Write a paragraph:
a) Introducing a study item or household object:
A thermos is a widely used object in daily life. With a compact design that keeps liquids hot on the inside while remaining cool on the outside, this thermos can easily store hot water for a period of time, providing hot water when needed. Even though the inside may be hot, the outer surface stays cool, and once the lid is sealed, it becomes completely safe to place anywhere. This is a highly practical item in the cold winter months, especially when needing hot water for tea or coffee. The thermos has become an essential item in every kitchen.
b) Introducing a famous landmark from your hometown:
Halong Bay is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site, but also one of the world’s most famous natural wonders. Located in the western part of the Gulf of Tonkin in Vietnam, about 170 km from Hanoi, it spans an area of 1,553 square kilometers and includes two notable bays, Bai Tu Long Bay (to the east) and Lan Ha Bay (to the south). Every year, the bay attracts thousands of tourists, both local and international. With its pristine beauty and the majestic landscapes of water and mountains, Halong Bay captivates even the most discerning hearts. It is one of the country’s greatest sources of pride.
c) Explaining a text or literary genre:
Modern poetry, or 'New Poetry,' emerged between 1932-1945 during a period when Vietnam was heavily influenced by both Western and Eastern cultures. The West’s literary traditions led intellectuals to awaken a more personal sense of self, calling for a break from the rigid forms of traditional poetry. This led to the birth of free verse poetry, which broke away from classical constraints such as fixed rhyme schemes and meter, allowing more flexibility in its rhythm and structure. Modern poetry was heavily influenced by Western literary movements, especially Symbolism and Surrealism, focusing on life, the individual, and the expression of personal identity.
d) Introducing a flower or tree species:
The rose is a flower that has become synonymous with poetry and daily life. The most striking feature of the rose is its thorny stem, and whether it’s a white, pink, or yellow rose, the thorns are an integral part of its beauty, enhancing the elegance and allure of the flower. The rose is widely recognized as a symbol of love, especially the red rose, representing sweet, passionate love. Its majestic beauty and fragrant aroma, particularly when the petals bloom, make the rose an iconic symbol of romance and affection.
e) Explaining a breed of pet animal:
The dog is the first domesticated animal in history. For centuries, dogs have faithfully served humanity in various roles. They have been devoted guards, companions, and even worked as pulling carts or herding sheep. Dogs’ intelligence and loyalty are extraordinary. A dog could even die for its owner without hesitation, demonstrating a deep emotional bond that rivals that of humans. Dogs should be cherished as friends rather than mere pets.
g) Introducing a product with Vietnamese cultural significance:
The conical hat has become an iconic symbol of Vietnam. It is an image that has been deeply ingrained in the cultural identity of Vietnamese women throughout history. When paired with the traditional áo dài, the conical hat enhances the graceful, modest beauty of the Vietnamese woman. Despite its simple design, the conical hat embodies the essence of rural Vietnamese life, representing humility, simplicity, and closeness. Though no longer as widely used today, it remains an indispensable symbol of Vietnamese culture and pride, recognized internationally as a representation of the nation’s timeless heritage.
3. Preparation for the "Review of Explanatory Text" Lesson No. 6
I. REVIEW OF THEORETICAL KNOWLEDGE
Question 1. What is the role and function of an explanatory text in life?
Suggestion
An explanatory text is a type of writing used in various fields of social life. It plays a significant role and serves the practical purpose of providing knowledge and information about the features, characteristics, causes, and other aspects of phenomena and objects in nature and society through explanation and presentation.
Question 2. What are the characteristics of explanatory texts compared to narrative, descriptive, expressive, and argumentative texts?
Suggestion
- A narrative text recounts events or tells stories.
- A descriptive text paints a vivid picture of objects, events, or scenes through language.
- An expressive text conveys the writer's thoughts, emotions, and feelings.
- An argumentative text uses reasoning, arguments, and evidence to present a viewpoint or belief.
- An explanatory text introduces and helps the reader understand the features, characteristics, and causes of objects or phenomena.
Question 3. What preparations are necessary to write a good explanatory text? What should be emphasized in an explanatory text?
Suggestion
- To write a good explanatory text, the writer must have firsthand experience with the object being explained, carefully observe the subject, and gather relevant information.
- The explanatory text should highlight the essential features, characteristics, causes, value, and significance of the phenomena or objects being explained.
Question 4. Which explanatory methods are commonly used?
Suggestion
Commonly used methods in explanatory writing include: defining, explaining, listing, providing examples, using data, comparing, analyzing, and categorizing.
II. PRACTICE EXERCISES
Exercise 1. Outline the approach and structure for the following topics:
a) Introduce a tool used for study or in daily life.
b) Introduce a famous landmark in your hometown.
c) Explain a text or literary genre you have studied.
d) Describe how to make a school tool (an experiment).
Suggestion
- For topic (a): Introduce the features, structure, usage, and benefits of the tool.
- For topic (b): Introduce the location, describe the general scenery, and detail specific areas.
- For topic (c): If introducing a text, mention its type, page number, sections, content, etc.
- For topic (d): For a study tool, introduce the materials, process, and the final product; for an experiment, detail the preparations, procedure, and results.
Exercise 2. Write a paragraph for the following topics:
a) Introduce a study tool or a household item.
b) Introduce a famous landmark in your hometown.
c) Explain a simple text or literary genre (such as a request, report, or a type of poetry like lục bát...).
d) Introduce a flower (like peach blossoms, apricot flowers...) or a tree (like banana trees, sugar apple trees...).
e) Explain a breed of pet animals.
g) Introduce a product or game with Vietnamese cultural identity (such as the conical hat, áo dài, kite flying...)
Suggestion
The exercise does not require writing the full text. Some of the topics in Exercise 1 have already been outlined, and you may choose one to write a paragraph about.
For topic (d), you can introduce other flowers or trees beyond the ones mentioned.
For topic (g), you may introduce different products or games beyond those specified in the topic.
4. Preparation for the "Review of Explanatory Text" Lesson No. 1
I. Review of Theory
1. The Role and Effect of Explanatory Texts in Life:
- An explanatory text is a common type of writing aimed at providing knowledge to people through presentation, introduction, and explanation.
+ Knowledge about natural sciences and social sciences.
2. How Explanatory Texts Differ from Other Text Types like Narrative, Descriptive, Expressive, and Argumentative:
+ Unlike narratives, it does not focus on telling stories or recounting events.
+ It does not describe in too much detail like descriptive texts.
+ It does not carry the intense emotional tone like expressive texts.
+ It does not present arguments or reasoning like argumentative texts.
→ Explanatory texts include presenting, explaining, and introducing facts objectively, clearly, and accurately.
3. To Write a Good Explanatory Text, You Need to:
+ Prepare materials through observation, reading, and collecting information from various sources (books, media, experiments…).
+ Build a logical structure for your text.
+ Highlight the main aspects you want to explain: features, properties, usage…
+ Clearly define the purpose and the subject of the explanation.
+ Appropriately use explanatory methods.
4. Key Explanatory Methods to Focus on:
+ Definition
+ Explanation
+ Listing
+ Comparison
+ Using data
+ Analysis
II. Practice
Exercise 1 (page 35, Literature 8, Volume 2):
a. Introducing a School or Household Object
Introduction: Introduce the object to be explained (ruler, pencil, pen…)
Body:
- Origin and manufacturer of the object
Appearance: Color, size
Structure:
+ How many parts does it consist of?
+ What components does it have?
+ How are the components arranged? What is the function of each part?
Usage
Maintenance
Conclusion: The value and importance of the object in studying
b. Outline for Introducing a Landmark or Scenic Spot in Your Hometown
Introduction: General introduction about the scenic spot in your hometown
Body:
- Geographical location
+ Size (large, small)
+ What is the most convenient way to get there?
+ How is the surrounding landscape?
- Origin (formation and development)
+ History of its establishment: When was it founded, who initiated its construction?
+ Current condition of the spot (needs restoration, or has been renovated and solidified?)
+ Scale
- Overall view:
+ What stands out when viewed from afar?
+ The most prominent feature
+ Architectural highlights inside: Decoration, arrangement, layout…
- Cultural and historical value of the site
+ How does the landmark enhance the beauty of the region?
+ It attracts a large number of tourists
Conclusion: Personal feelings and reflections about the site
c. Explaining a Literary Text or Genre You Studied
Introduction: General introduction to the genre of literature you are explaining (folk literature, classical literature, modern literature)
Body:
General overview:
+ Define the genre of literature
- Characteristics of the genre:
+ Identify key characteristics
+ Emphasize distinctive features that make it unique
- Provide examples of representative works in the genre
Conclusion: General thoughts on the genre of literature
d. Explaining How to Make a School Object
Introduction: Introduce the school object to be made (pencil box, book stand, cloth pen holder)
Body:
- Materials needed
- Step-by-step process for making the object
- Requirements for the final product
- Important things to note while making the product
- Use of the handmade object
- How to maintain it
Conclusion: Personal feelings about the role of handmade school objects
Exercise 2 (page 36, Literature 8, Volume 2):
Introducing a Landmark or Scenic Spot in Your Hometown
Tam Coc Bich Dong is a famous tourist destination in Hoa Lu ancient capital, Ninh Binh. With just over two hours by the Cầu Giẽ-Pháp Vân highway, you can reach this wonderful landmark. Tam Coc - Bich Dong has long been praised as the “Second most beautiful cave in the South.” It is best to visit during the summer so that you can take a boat tour through the beautiful limestone caves. Tam Coc has three main caves: Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. Among them, Hang Ca is the largest and most beautiful cave. You will be amazed as you sit on the boat and enter these thousand-year-old caves, exploring and admiring the magnificent beauty of the limestone stalactites. Each stalactite forms unique shapes: coiled dragons, old men playing chess… When you visit, you will feel peace and tranquility in your soul. Don’t forget to visit the Lower, Middle, and Upper Pagodas to complete your trip. This site was once described by Nguyễn Du’s father, the scholar Nguyễn Nghiễm, in his travel writings “Stone cliffs, flowers bloom towards the pagodas.” If you are lucky, you may pick some fragrant Sơn Kim Cúc flowers to steep in tea with water from the Tien Spring, which is a delightful experience.
Explaining the Six-Eight Verse Form
The Six-Eight verse form is one of the traditional genres of Vietnamese literature. It became widely popular and deeply ingrained in the spiritual life of our country through proverbs, folk songs, lullabies… Even today, many modern poets continue to use this form in their works. The Six-Eight verse consists of alternating lines of six and eight syllables. The tonal pattern also creates harmony in rhythm, giving the poem a musical quality. It follows strict rules for syllables and tones. The sixth and eighth syllables of each line must have opposite tones, and the second, sixth, and eighth syllables are always in the “flat” tone. This form is always rhymed with the last syllable of a six-syllable line matching the sixth syllable of the following eight-syllable line, creating a smooth and melodic flow. The Six-Eight verse is graceful and ideal for expressing emotions and feelings. It is always a source of pride for the Vietnamese people.
5. Explanatory Text Review, Version 2
6. Preparation for "Review of Explanatory Text" - Version 3
I. BASIC KNOWLEDGE
1. A explanatory text is a common type of writing used in various fields to provide knowledge about the characteristics, properties, causes... of objects, phenomena, and entities in nature and society, through methods of presentation, introduction, and explanation.
2. Explanatory texts differ from other types mainly in their aim to explain and introduce. Explanatory writing is not focused on storytelling like narrative texts, nor on detailed descriptions like descriptive texts, nor on strong emotional expression like expressive texts, nor on argumentation like argumentative texts. It presents, explains, and introduces in an objective, accurate, and clear manner.
3. To create an effective explanatory text, one must first thoroughly understand the subject to be explained by direct observation or research through books, radio, television, or other mass media. The explanatory text should highlight the key features, properties, functions, effects... and most importantly, the relationship between the subject being explained and human life.
4. The methods commonly used in explanatory writing, often in combination, include: defining, explaining, listing, giving examples, using data, comparing, classifying, analyzing...
II. Practice Exercises
Question 1 - Practice on page 35 - Textbook of Literature 8, Volume 2: Please state the method of outlining and structuring for the following topics:
a) Introduce a study or household item.
b) Introduce a tourist attraction in your hometown.
c) Explain a text or a literary genre you have studied.
d) Explain how to make a study item (an experiment)
a) Introducing a study or household item
Introduction: Introduce the item to be explained (ruler, pencil, fountain pen...)
Body:
- Origin, source of the item: Manufacturer
Shape: Color, size
Structure:
+ How many parts does it have?
+ What components are included?
+ How are the parts arranged? What is the function of each part?
Usage
Storage
Conclusion: The value and importance of the item in learning
b) Outline introducing a tourist attraction in your hometown
Introduction: General introduction to the attraction in your hometown
Body: - Geographical location
+ Size (large, small)
+ What is the most convenient way to get there?
+ How is the surrounding scenery of the attraction?
- Origin (formation and development)
+ History of formation: When was it created, who started its construction...
+ Current condition: Is it under renovation or was it completed and fortified?...
+ Scale
- Overall view:
+ What is the first thing you notice from a distance?
+ What stands out the most?
+ Prominent architecture inside: Decoration, arrangement, layout...
- Cultural and historical significance of the place
+ How does the landmark enhance the beauty of the region?
+ Does it attract tourists?
Conclusion: General feelings and impressions about the landmark
c) Explain a text or a literary genre you have studied
Introduction: Brief introduction to the chosen literary genre (folk literature, classical literature, modern literature)
Body: Overview:
+ Define the genre
- Key characteristics of the genre:
+ Identify the main features
+ Emphasize the distinctive and valuable aspects
- Mention some typical literary works of the genre
Conclusion: General thoughts on the genre.
d) Introduce how to make a study item
Introduction: Introduce the study item to be made (pencil case, book holder, fabric pen pouch)
Body: - Necessary materials
- Step-by-step process
- Requirements for the final product
- Important considerations during the creation process
- Purpose of the item
- How to store and preserve it
Conclusion: Thoughts on the role of handmade study items
Question 2, page 36 - Textbook of Literature 8, Volume 2: Write a paragraph based on the following topics:
a) Introduce a study or household item.
b) Introduce a tourist attraction in your hometown.
c) Explain a simple text or literary genre (such as a request, report, or the poem genre of six-eight line verses...)
d) Introduce a type of flower (such as peach blossom, apricot blossom...) or a type of tree (such as banana tree, custard apple tree...)
e) Explain a type of livestock.
g) Introduce a product or a traditional Vietnamese game (such as the conical hat, the ao dai, kite flying...)
Answer:
a) Introducing a study or household item
- Sample paragraph
My study table was handmade by my father from planks and wooden slats he selected from the pile of firewood my mother had just bought. After a full Sunday spent sawing, planing, and carving... my father completed the beautiful table. It is positioned right by the window facing east, so it gets plenty of light throughout the day. The table’s shape is identical to the one at school but half the size. Its surface is smoothed and varnished, with natural wood grain showing beautifully. Under the table are two spacious drawers, enough to store my books and study materials. The table is built in one piece with the chair, and has a comfortable backrest. My father also bought me a small fluorescent desk lamp, and the base of the lamp serves as a pink plastic pen holder. The lamp is securely attached to the table to ensure enough light for my studying at night.
b) Introducing a tourist attraction in your hometown.
- Sample paragraph:
Nha Trang City is a major tourist destination in the country, famous for its beautiful landscapes, favorable natural conditions, historical and cultural heritage. Nha Trang-Khanh Hoa has great potential for various types of tourism. Located in the center of Khanh Hoa Province, Nha Trang covers an area of 251 km2, with 27 wards and communes, and 19 islands, home to more than 2,500 households and around 15,000 residents. The largest island, Hon Tre, is 36 km2 and protects Nha Trang Bay, which is considered one of the 29 most beautiful bays in the world, from strong winds and rough waves. Visitors often call it the 'Pearl of the East' due to its stunning beaches, green, clean roads, and villas hidden among flowers and greenery.
c) Explaining a simple literary text or genre (such as request texts, reports, or the six-eight line poem genre...)
- Sample paragraph:
Six-eight verse is a traditional Vietnamese poetic form that consists of lines with a fixed number of syllables: six syllables in the first line and eight in the second line. This form uses end rhymes in both the middle and the last position of the lines, following a strict pattern of alternating between different tones, with the fourth syllable usually being a low tone. The meter is primarily even-numbered.
d) Introducing a flower (such as peach blossom, apricot blossom...) or a tree (such as banana tree, custard apple tree...)
- Sample paragraph:
The apricot flower comes in many types, the most common being the yellow apricot (Hoang Mai), followed by four-season apricot and white apricot (Bach Mai). The yellow apricot grows easily in sandy soil or riverside land. It can be cultivated in large orchards, or simply planted in pots in the garden or on balconies. The ideal soil for apricot trees has moderate moisture and good drainage. Fertilizer for apricots typically includes dried cow manure mixed with wood ash, oil cakes, and a small amount of urea and potash...
e) Explaining a type of livestock.
- Sample paragraph:
Among all domestic animals, I like dogs the most. Dogs are four-legged creatures, evolved from wolves into domesticated pets. Dogs come in many breeds, with some weighing 40-50kg, while others are only 5-10kg. Many families now raise dogs to guard their homes or as a close companion for family members. Dogs are also used by police officers for investigative work, with some highly trained dogs being able to detect unusual substances, helping solve cases quickly.
g) Introducing a traditional Vietnamese product or game (such as the conical hat, the ao dai, kite flying...)
– Sample paragraph:
The ao dai has been part of Vietnamese culture for a long time. It embodies the beauty and grace of Vietnamese women. From the early 19th century to 1945, the ao dai was made of two pieces: a four-piece outfit and a two-piece garment with a continuous seam along the back. The front of the dress had two flaps without buttons, either hanging loose or tied together. The five-piece ao dai was similar to the four-piece one, but the left flap was made of two pieces of fabric, making it wider than the right one. In the 1930s, the ao dai underwent changes, becoming the more modern version we know today, which blends traditional Vietnamese style with subtle and elegant western influences.
