The object, also known as the subject, of the paper must be addressed in each fourth-grade expository-writing lesson. Teach the children how to identify the subject and find interesting ways to expand and discuss the subject in detail. Provide the student with examples of papers that stay on topic. Students should also be exposed to examples of off-topic and unfocused papers. A poor paper will be difficult to understand, while an excellent paper will clearly explain and discuss the subject.
A poor paper will have examples of a wandering subject line, obscure ideas and confusing dialog. Strong papers will effectively communicate ideas, provide relevant facts and address the subject in a complete and engaging manner. Intermediate papers will provide the reader with relevant facts and information but may have slight issues with meandering around the subject and may be technically accurate, but they may lack the ability to engage the reader. Excellent papers give the reader relevant and interesting facts.
Mechanics refers to the technical skill of the fourth-grader. The expository-writing lesson expects that the child will have an understanding of proper grammar, avoid spelling mistakes, include punctuation where appropriate and utilize effective sentence structure. Ineffective papers will have several spelling, punctuation and grammatical issues. Strong papers will clearly address the topic and be free of any errors in punctuation, spelling and grammar. Students who illustrate deficits in grammar and punctuation should be given assignments that specifically address these issues. For instance, administering vocabulary tests and giving extra vocabulary homework will help with spelling issues.
The goal of an expository-writing lesson is to engage the child in the process of writing and keep the writing focused and on topic. Fourth-grade children need to learn to address a subject in its entirety without getting sidetracked and including irrelevant information. This can be achieved through practice writings with specific topics and instructions to guide the student in the writing process. For example, give a specific subject to address in the introduction and then explain that the remaining paragraphs should focus on elements that were addressed in the introduction.