Expository Writing Prompts for All Ages and Language Skills

Expository writing refers to the type of writing that explains, informs, and describes a topic rather than arguing a specific point of view. Unlike argumentative or descriptive writing, it is factual, logical, and clear.

That’s why expository writing prompts typically give a topic that the writer is supposed to research and then explore in detail. They are equally helpful for K-12, college, and adult learners as long as the topic is age- and level-appropriate.

How to choose the right expository writing prompt?

1. Based on the learners’ age and language level
2. To match the curriculum (at least when it comes to K-12 and college students)
3. With the learners’ interests in mind.

‍

Expository writing is more about facts than opinions. The focus should be on staying informative rather than persuasive.

When choosing appropriate expository writing prompts, consider the learners’ level. A prompt that’s too easy is unengaging; a prompt that’s too complex is frustrating.

Expository Writing Prompts by Grade Level and Context

Expository Writing Prompts for Middle School

1. What is your favorite sport? Explain how it’s played step by step.
2. Explain how you see the difference between a goal and a dream.
3. Describe your morning routine and why it works for you.
4. Describe what students can do to effectively manage stress during the exam season.
5. Is there anyone whose leadership you admire? Describe the qualities that make them a strong leader.
6. Explore the effects of social media on friendships and communication.
7. Think of the last time you worked on a group project. Explain what makes a team project successful.
8. Explain how you would organize a school-wide fundraiser step by step.
9. Using your own experience, describe how to stay motivated when working on a boring task.
10. Think of a movie you watched a long time ago, yet still think of. Explain what makes a movie memorable.
11. Using specific examples, explain how video games can be used for learning.

Middle school expository writing prompts should relate to learners’ everyday experiences – daily routine, school, friendships, etc.

High School

1. Describe the role of mental health education in high school.
2. Explain the process of applying to college or a university step by step.
3. Explore the strategies that help build and maintain healthy romantic relationships.
4. Using your own research experience and specific examples, explain how to evaluate online sources for credibility.
5. Explain the effects of fast fashion on the environment and labor rights.
6. Describe how to write an effective personal statement for college applications.
7. Research genetic engineering and explore the ethical challenges associated with it.
8. Has the popularity of esports affected traditional sports? Describe how so.
9. Is food a big part of your family traditions? Explain how it helps preserve cultural traditions.
10. Explain the influence of cinema on public opinion. Are movie creators responsible for that influence?
11. Explore how families’ socioeconomic status affects young people’s educational opportunities.

The expository writing prompts high school students benefit from the most are those that encourage them to back up their ideas with real-world examples, data, and simple references.

College or University

1. Explain the process of developing a meaningful undergraduate research project step by step.
2. Explore how student debt affects long-term financial stability, career, and life choices.
3. Have you ever experienced burnout from studying? Describe how academic pressure can cause it.
4. Is there any correlation between physical fitness and academic performance? Explore it.
5. Using specific examples, describe how humor can be used to challenge injustice.
6. Describe the role of ethics in data collection and research. Cite relevant academic sources.
7. Can interdisciplinary learning help solve real-world problems? Using examples, explain how so.
8. Explain how to turn a passion project into a career opportunity. Is it a good idea?
9. Can personality tests help career planning? Explore why or why not.
10. Explain the psychological effects of academic competition among peers. Does it help or hurt more?
11. Explore the differences in digital privacy laws across countries. Which seem to be the most balanced and effective?

College-level expository writing is all about research, proper structure, and correctly formatted references. Make sure to practice those extensively as part of writing practice.

ESL Students

1. Describe your favorite place in your hometown and why you like it.
2. Explain how to make a new friend at school or another place.
3. What is your favorite season? Talk about the activities you enjoy doing then.
4. Describe your dream job and the reasons why that’s what you want to do.
5. Explain how a student can save money and survive on a tight budget. Be specific.
6. Do you have a best friend? Describe them and the things you enjoy doing together.
7. Imagine you have an interview for your dream job in two days. Describe your preparation process step by step.
8. Do you enjoy reading for fun? Explain how you choose your next book.
9. How do you calm yourself when you feel stressed? Describe the methods you use.
10. Talk about how most people celebrate New Year’s Eve in your home country.
11. Describe the things you do every day to show the people you love that you love them.

To help ESL students master writing, stick to familiar topics and level-appropriate language. It might also help to include visuals and pre-writing vocabulary practice.

Standardized Test Prep (SAT, GED)

1. Is there value in friendship beyond the joy it brings? Describe how friends help us grow.
2. Explain how financial education can prevent personal debt crises and the methods schools could use to teach it.
3. Discuss the ethical responsibilities of scientists in conducting research. Mention any well-known unethical study you are familiar with (e.g., the Stanford prison experiment).
4. Talk about the effects of urban planning on community health.
5. Analyze how advancements in telehealth are affecting healthcare access.
6. Using specific examples, discuss how historical events influence contemporary social policies.
7. Explain the new opportunities and challenges that remote learning has created for students.
8. Using one specific example, explain the potential pitfalls of the “the end justifies the means” approach.
9. Think of a positive habit you are hoping to develop. Describe the process of habit setting step by step.
10. Explain how keeping a journal can help reduce stress and track personal goals.
11. Analyze the value of reading news from multiple sources to stay informed.

SAT and GED essays have a strict structure and word count limits. Also, students have limited time to write them. Emphasize this during writing practice.

Adult Learners & Professional Development

1. Using specific real-life examples, explain how improving communication skills can help in the workplace.
2. How can boundary setting help maintain a healthy work-life balance?
3. Discuss how developing a five-year career plan can guide your decisions.
4. Based on your own experience, discuss how managing personal finances can affect one’s independence.
5. Using specific examples, explain how multilingualism can create unexpected career opportunities.
6. Describe how your career goals have changed (or might change) due to life events.
7. Have you ever benefited from something you failed at? Talk about how failure in one area can lead to growth in another.
8. Does self-paced or traditional learning resonate more with you? Analyze the benefits of the former, especially for adults.
9. Describe what customer service skills can be useful in non-customer service careers.
10. Using examples, explore the benefits of networking for professional growth.
11. Based on your own experience, how can conflict resolution skills help in the workplace?

Most adult learners appreciate prompts related to professional experiences, productivity, and work-related topics.

Final Words

You now have a good idea of what expository writing is all about and know how to choose a perfect expository writing prompt for any level or context. With such a variety of topics, you can easily pick a prompt that will resonate with the writer be it yourself or your students!