3.8 More About Text Structures

Results

Compare your findings with the ones on the table. Notice the underlined words that show how signal words have given hints as to the text structure.

SEQUENTIAL OR CHRONOLOGICAL

 

Shows events in order or explains steps one must follow

 

first, next, after, before,last, following

 

When a cat is hungry, first he will look for his master. Then he will sit next to his dish until he gets fed.

A baby may first toss and turn when she is put in a crib for a nap. Second, she may cry. Not long after that she will likely close her eyes and drift off to sleep.

COMPARE AND CONTRAST

 

Tells how two or more things are the same (compare) or different (contrast)

similar to, as well as, however, on the contrary

 

Cats are similar to lions. They are both felines. They both have sharp teeth. However, a cat is much smaller than a lion.

 

CAUSE AND EFFECT

 

Shows a relationship between a cause (event) and effect (what happened as a result)

consequently, therefore, as a result, because of, due to

 

Cats often have lots of energy and will play for a long time. As a result, they take many naps.

You can tell when a cat is angry. Its ears are laid back and it may hiss.

If you don't get enough sleep, then it could affect your memory, ability to pay attention, and performance in school.

 

 

PROBLEM AND SOLUTION

 

 

Tells about a problem and gives one or more solutions

Consequently, therefore, leads to, because of

 

 

Cats sometimes scratch the furniture. One solution is to cover the furniture.

If you can't remember dreams, but want to, keep a journal by your bed so that you can record them as soon as you wake up.