Top 6 Best Guides on "General Introduction to Explanatory Texts"

I - Role and General Features of Explanatory Texts

Q1, page 116 - Literature 8, Volume 1: Explanatory texts in human life

Read the following texts and answer the question

(3 texts from pages 114, 115, 116 - Literature 8, Volume 1)

- The text 'Coconut Tree in Binh Dinh' presents the benefits of the coconut tree, which are unique to this type of tree. While other coconut trees, like those in Ben Tre, may have similar benefits, this text focuses specifically on the coconut trees of Binh Dinh, deeply connected to the people of this region.

- The text 'Why Are Leaves Green?' explains the role of chlorophyll in giving leaves their green color.

- The text 'Hue' introduces Hue as a major cultural and artistic hub of Vietnam, highlighting its distinctive features.

- These types of texts can be found in scientific books, newspapers, and online sources...

- Additional similar texts include:

+ 'A Delicacy of New Rice - Com'

+ 'Royal Court Music of Hue...'

Q2, page 116 - Literature 8, Volume 1: Common features of explanatory texts

a) - Narrative texts present events, developments, and characters. Do these texts include such content?

- Descriptive texts provide detailed impressions of objects and people. Do these texts do that?

- Argumentative texts present opinions and points of view. Do these texts have arguments? These texts are purely informative, without opinions.

Therefore, these are a different type of text.

b) For example, the coconut tree, from its trunk to its leaves, coconut water, and husk, is beneficial to humans, thus being deeply integrated into the daily life of the people.

The green color of leaves is due to chlorophyll, Hue is a city with harmonious landscapes, famous cultural and artistic sites, and distinctive specialties, making it a central cultural hub in our country. All three texts describe the key features of their subject matter.

From these characteristics, it can be concluded that explanatory texts aim to provide objective knowledge about an object, helping people understand it in a thorough and accurate manner. This is the key feature that distinguishes this type of text from others. Knowledge provided must be factual, not fabricated or imaginary.

Explanatory texts are practical, with their primary purpose being to deliver knowledge, without the need to focus on the aesthetic enjoyment as in literary works.

Remember:

- Explanatory texts are commonly used in various fields to provide knowledge about the characteristics, causes, and nature of objects and phenomena in nature and society through presentation, introduction, and explanation.

- The knowledge in explanatory texts must be objective, accurate, and useful for human understanding.

- Explanatory texts need to be clear, concise, and engaging.

II - Practice

Q1, page 117 - Literature 8, Volume 1: Are the following texts explanatory? Why?

(3 texts from pages 117, 118 - Literature 8, Volume 1)

- 'The Nông Văn Vân Uprising' is an explanatory text because it provides historical knowledge.

- 'Earthworm' is an explanatory text because it provides scientific information about the organism.

Q2, page 118 - Literature 8, Volume 1: Read again and identify the type of text 'Information on Earth Day 2000.' What is the explanatory purpose of the text?

'Information on Earth Day 2000' is an argumentative text, proposing a positive environmental action, but it uses explanatory elements to explain the harmful effects of plastic bags, making the argument more persuasive.

Q3, page 118 - Literature 8, Volume 1: Do other text types, such as narrative, argumentative, expressive, and descriptive, require explanatory elements? Why?

Other text types like narrative, argumentative, and expressive do require explanatory elements. Explanatory elements make the text clearer and more scientifically accurate.

I. Basic Knowledge

1. The role and general characteristics of expository texts

a. The text 'The Coconut Tree of Binh Dinh'

Describes the characteristics of the coconut tree and its benefits, which other plants do not offer.
This characteristic contributes to the benefits of the coconut tree. Of course, all coconut trees in various regions share this feature, but this particular piece focuses on the coconut trees of Binh Dinh, which are closely linked to the local people.
b. The text 'Why are plants green?'

Explains the function of chlorophyll, which gives plants their green color.
c. The text 'Hue.'

Introduces Hue as a major cultural and artistic hub in Vietnam. The article highlights key features of Hue. => Thus, the three texts above are expository, presenting the beauty of nature and the characteristics of plants. You may encounter such texts in newspapers and books:
Other similar texts that you know include:
Introducing Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park.
Introducing Minh Hai Bird Sanctuary.
Introducing the Ngũ Hành Sơn Mountains.

2. Common characteristics of expository texts.

a. Can the texts above be considered as narrative (or descriptive, argumentative) texts? Why or why not?

The texts above cannot be considered narrative (or descriptive, argumentative) because they differ in their presentation and expression.
They are scientific and informative texts, not works of literary or artistic imagination.
These texts only provide knowledge about the essential characteristics of objects and phenomena.
b. What common features make these texts a distinct type?

These texts present the nature, structure, and uses of objects.
They explain the reasons for the emergence, development, and transformation of things.
They provide knowledge and instructions for human use.
For example: When purchasing a TV, a pump, or an iron, you often receive an expository text explaining how to use them and their functions.

c. How have the texts explained their subject matter?

The texts present the basic characteristics of their subject matter in an objective manner, closely tied to scientific thinking.
They require accurate and clear data.
Therefore, to write an expository text, one must thoroughly research the subject beforehand.
d. What is the language style of these texts? The language used is scientific (as mentioned above).

II. Skill Development

1. Read the following texts and determine whether they are expository. Why or why not?

a. The Nông Văn Vân Rebellion. This is an expository text because it provides historical knowledge.

b. The Earthworm. This is an expository text because it provides biological knowledge.

2. In the argumentative text 'Information about Earth Day 2000', does the author use expository methods? Identify the expository content (if any) and analyze its impact.

Hint: This is an argumentative essay on environmental protection that includes expository elements explaining the harmful effects of plastic bags used in daily life. By incorporating expository elements, the author makes the proposals in the text more convincing.

3. Based on the texts you’ve read, do narrative, descriptive, or expressive texts need expository techniques? Why?

Hint: Exposition, as a technique, is necessary for all types of texts. Depending on the object and purpose, writers use exposition in various ways. In non-expository texts, it helps clarify key points and facilitates deeper understanding for readers.

Additionally, look at the sample text 'Exposition of a Traditional Craft Village - Thanh Tiên Paper Flowers'.

4. Can you think of other narrative, descriptive, or expressive texts that use exposition?

Hint: Review the texts 'The Waters of Cà Mau', 'Vietnamese Bamboo', 'A Delicacy of Green Rice: Com', 'Ca Huế on the Perfume River', 'I Go to School', and more.

The Role and Characteristics of Expository Texts

1. Expository texts in everyday life

- Content of the texts:

+ Text (a): Discusses the benefits of the coconut tree in Binh Dinh.

+ Text (b): Explains why leaves are green.

+ Text (c): Introduces the characteristics of the city of Hue.

- These types of texts can be found in everyday life when there is a need for objective knowledge about various fields, typically found in scientific books, etc.

- Some similar texts: Phong Nha Cave, Information about Earth Day 2000, Long Bien Bridge – A Historical Witness, etc.

2. Common features of expository texts

a. The texts above are different from narrative, descriptive, expressive, and argumentative texts. They do not aim to tell a story, describe something, express emotions, or present arguments.

b. These texts provide objective, accurate, and useful knowledge about objects and phenomena.

c. Expository methods: Presenting, introducing, explaining.

d. Language: Objective, precise, clear, structured, and engaging.

Exercises

Question 1 (page 117, Literature 8, Volume 1):

Both texts mentioned are expository texts because they provide valuable knowledge for the reader.

Question 2 (page 118, Literature 8, Volume 1):

The text 'Information about Earth Day 2000' is an expository text. It explains the harmful effects of using plastic packaging, contributing to the persuasive power of the call for 'A Day Without Plastic Bags'.

Question 3 (page 118, Literature 8, Volume 1):

Exposition is an essential element for all types of texts. It helps clarify the content of the text and ensures the information presented is accurate and scientifically sound.

I. ROLE AND COMMON CHARACTERISTICS OF EXPLANATORY TEXTS

1. Explanatory Texts in Everyday Life

Read the paragraphs (pages 114, 115, 116 in Literature 8, Volume 1) and answer the following questions:

- What does each text explain or introduce?

- Where do you often encounter these types of texts?

- Can you name other similar texts you know?

Answer:

- The text 'Coconut Trees of Binh Dinh' explains the benefits of coconut trees in Binh Dinh and their importance to the local people.

- The text 'Why Are Leaves Green?' explains the role of chlorophyll, which gives leaves their green color.

- The text 'Hue' introduces Hue as a major cultural and artistic center of Vietnam, showcasing its unique characteristics.

You can often find these types of texts in books and newspapers. Some examples include:

- 'The Dragon's Nest of My Homeland' by Vo Van Truc.

- 'Sweet Potatoes' by Vu Bang.

2. Common Characteristics of Explanatory Texts

a. Can the above texts be considered narrative? Why or why not? What sets them apart from narrative texts?

b. What common features do the texts share that classify them as explanatory?

Answer:

a.

These texts are not narrative (or descriptive, argumentative, or expressive). They do not tell stories or describe characters in detail like narratives. They do not present specific viewpoints like argumentative texts.

b. The texts all share the characteristic of presenting key features of objects or phenomena. Explanatory texts aim to provide objective knowledge, helping people understand things accurately. These texts are based on facts and must reflect reality without imagination or distortion. Though personal emotion is not necessary, the writer should still be able to engage the reader’s interest.

II. PRACTICE

Answer Question 1 (page 117, Literature 8, Volume 1):

Are the texts on pages 117 and 118 explanatory texts? Why?

Detailed answer:

The two texts 'The Nông Văn Vân Uprising (1833-1835)' and 'Earthworms' are explanatory texts.

The first provides historical knowledge, and the second offers biological knowledge.

Answer Question 2 (page 118, Literature 8, Volume 1):

Read again and identify the type of text 'Information on Earth Day 2000.' What is the explanatory purpose in this text?

Detailed answer:

'Information on Earth Day 2000' is a practical text. It presents an explanation of the negative impact of plastic packaging and urges actions to protect the environment, making the argument more convincing.

Answer Question 3 (page 118, Literature 8, Volume 1):

Do other types of texts, such as narratives, descriptions, expressions, or arguments, also require explanatory elements? Why?

Detailed answer:

Other texts like narratives, arguments, expressions, and descriptions sometimes also require explanatory elements. Explanations clarify the content, ensuring its accuracy and scientific grounding.

I. The Role and Common Features of Explanatory Texts

1. Explanatory texts in human life

Read the following texts and answer the questions:

a. COCONUT TREE IN BINH DINH

The coconut tree is closely associated with the people of Binh Dinh, much like the bamboo tree to the people of the North. The coconut tree provides all its resources for humans: the trunk is used as a trough, the leaves make mats, the shredded leaf stems are used for walls, the old coconut trunk is used for steaming rice, the coconut water is consumed as a drink or for cooking fish, meat, and soups, and even for making fish sauce... The coconut pulp is eaten raw with rice crackers, used for making candy, and extracting oil for lighting, cooking, combing hair, and making soap. The coconut shell is used for buttons, bowls, and salt-making. The coconut husk is woven into ropes, which are very useful for fishermen because they are soft, flexible, durable, and resistant to rain and sun. The coconut tree is an essential part of daily life in Binh Dinh.

There is a folk verse from Binh Dinh:

The coconut stands tall in the sky

Offering its body to life with loyalty.

In Binh Dinh, coconuts are everywhere – along rivers, by rice fields, climbing up hills, and lining the coasts. On a long journey of 50 to 60 kilometers, you’ll only encounter coconut trees: short and round coconuts with sweet water, tall ones with golden-green fruit, and red-leaved coconuts with pink husks...

(From Hoang Van Huyen, Geography Stories)

b. WHY ARE LEAVES GREEN?

Leaves appear green because they contain many chloroplasts. A millimeter of leaf contains about 400,000 chloroplasts. These chloroplasts hold chlorophyll, the green pigment in leaves. Sunlight consists of seven colors: violet, indigo, blue, green, yellow, orange, and red. Chlorophyll reflects green light because it absorbs other wavelengths, especially red and blue light. This is why we see leaves as green. If you shine red light on chlorophyll, it absorbs all the red light but has no green light to reflect, making the leaf appear black.

(From Vu Van Chuyen, Plant Q&A)

c. HUE

Hue is one of Vietnam’s major cultural and artistic centers. Hue is a beautiful city, known for its natural beauty, poetry, and creative, courageous people.

Hue blends mountains, rivers, and the sea harmoniously. From Bach Ma Mountain, you can feel the sea breeze. From the Hai Van Pass, you can hear the waves crashing, and in the morning, you can go to the Truong Son Mountains, in the afternoon enjoy the beaches of Thuan An, and at night sleep on a boat on the Perfume River.

Hue is also famous for its architecture, with the Imperial Tombs of the Nguyen Kings, Thiên Mụ Pagoda, Truc Lam Pagoda, Vong Canh Hill, and Dong Ba Market being world cultural heritage sites recognized by UNESCO.

Hue is admired for its unique products. The city is known for its beautiful gardens and lush green fields, which resemble precious gems. The conical hats of Hue make its women even more graceful.

Hue is also famous for its distinct culinary offerings.

In addition, Hue has a strong revolutionary history. In August 1945, Hue rose up alongside the rest of the country to overthrow the feudal monarchy.

Hue is beautiful and poetic, forever etched in the history of heroic cities.

(From Vietnamese Practice Language Textbook)

Questions:

- What does each text present, introduce, or explain?

- Where do you usually encounter such texts?

- Can you name some other texts of the same type?

Answer:

Text (a) presents the benefits of the coconut tree in Binh Dinh.

Text (b) explains why leaves are green.

Text (c) introduces the beauty of Hue.

- Such texts can be found in science books, newspapers, online articles...

- Other examples of similar texts:

“A Delicacy from Young Rice – Com”

“Hue’s Royal Court Music”

“Epidemic Diseases, Cigarettes”

2. Common Features of Explanatory Texts

Group discussion based on the following questions:

a) Can the texts above be considered narrative texts (or descriptive, argumentative, or expressive)? Why? How are they different from those types?

b) What common features do the texts share that make them a distinct category?

c) How do the texts explain their subjects?

d) What is the language style of these texts?

Answer:

a) The texts above cannot be considered narrative (or descriptive, argumentative, or expressive) texts because:

They do not aim to recount events, actions, characters, or developments. They provide the characteristics and information about things.

b) These texts provide knowledge and scientific information about objects and phenomena, so they belong to a distinct category.

c) The texts explain their subjects through description, explanation, and introduction.

d) The language of these texts is scientific.

II. Practice

1- Page 117 Textbook

Are the following texts explanatory? Why?

a)

THE FARMER REBELLION OF NONG VAN VAN

(1833-1835)

Nong Van Van was a Tày ethnic leader, who served as the governor of Bao Lac (Cao Bang). Unable to bear the pressure from the Nguyen dynasty, he and several other leaders gathered the people to rise up. [...]

The uprising spread across the Vietnam’s northern mountains and some villages of the Muong and Viet people in the midlands. The Nguyen court sent large armies twice to suppress it, but unsuccessfully. On the third attempt in 1835, the army launched a brutal attack from many directions, burning the forest. Nong Van Van died in the woods, and the rebellion was quelled.

(From History 7)

b)

EARTHWORMS

Earthworms are segmented animals, with around 2,500 species, and live in moist soils. Their heads are smooth and designed for burrowing in the soil. The bodies are covered in mucus, allowing them to slide easily and stay moist. Earthworms are brown when in the soil and greenish on their backs when in moss. Earthworms are resilient, as they can regenerate even if cut in half.

Earthworms help aerate the soil. Their waste is a great natural fertilizer. They are used to process waste and clean the environment.

Earthworms are also used in animal feed. People can eat them since they contain 70% protein. Earthworms can be used in medicine. Earthworms are useful creatures.

(From 21st Century Encyclopedia)

Answer:

a) “The Farmer Rebellion of Nong Van Van” is an explanatory text because it provides historical information.

b) “Earthworms” is an explanatory text because it provides scientific information about the creatures.

2- Page 118 Textbook

Please read again and identify what type of text the information about Earth Day in 2000 belongs to. What is the purpose of the explanatory content in this text?

Answer:

The Earth Day 2000 information belongs to an explanatory text because it helps the reader understand the harm caused by plastic packaging and the benefits of reducing plastic waste for a better environment.

3- Page 118 Textbook

Do other types of texts such as narrative, argumentative, expressive, and descriptive need explanatory elements? Why?

Answer:

Narrative, argumentative, expressive, and descriptive texts require explanatory elements because they help clarify the content and ensure it is accurate and scientific.

Summary:

Explanatory texts are commonly used in all aspects of life to provide knowledge about the features, characteristics, causes, and effects of phenomena and objects in nature and society. They employ presentation, introduction, and explanation methods. Knowledge in explanatory texts must be objective, factual, and useful to people. Explanatory texts must be clear, precise, and engaging.