Signal Words and Phrases for Determining Text Structure
Text structure is determined by certain signal words and phrases. They can help a reader understand the organization and overall argument of the text. There are five main categories of text structure: description, sequence, comparison, cause and effect, and problem and solution. Here are a few signal words and phrases to help recognize each type of text structure:
Description
Description is used to provide information about a person, place, or thing. Signal words and phrases that are indicative of description include:
- Appearance
- Shape
- Size
- Look
- Color
- Texture
Sequence
Sequence is used to explain the order of events. Signal words and phrases that are indicative of sequence include:
- First
- Second
- Then
- Next
- Finally
- Meanwhile
Comparison
Comparison is used to explain the similarities and differences between two or more things. Signal words and phrases that are indicative of comparison include:
- Similar
- Alike
- Likewise
- Similarly
- Different
- However
Cause and Effect
Cause and effect is used to explain why something happened and the consequences of an event. Signal words and phrases that are indicative of cause and effect include:
- Because
- Consequently
- Therefore
- Result
- So
- Cause
Problem and Solution
Problem and solution is used to explain an issue and how to resolve it. Signal words and phrases that are indicative of problem and solution include:
- Problem
- Solution
- Resolve
- Prevent
- Solution
- Solution
Related Questions
- What are the main types of text structure?
- What are signal words and phrases for description?
- What are signal words and phrases for sequence?
- What are signal words and phrases for comparison?
- What are signal words and phrases for cause and effect?
- What are signal words and phrases for problem and solution?
- What are the most common text structures?
- Are there other types of text structure?
- What is the purpose of text structure?
- What is an example of text structure?