Key Takeaways
- Common text structures include sequence, cause/effect, compare/contrast, problem/solution, and description
- Signal words help identify the organizational pattern of a passage
- Cause and effect uses words like "because," "therefore," "as a result"
- Compare and contrast uses words like "similarly," "however," "unlike"
- Understanding structure improves reading speed and comprehension
Understanding Text Structure and Organization
Authors organize information using specific text structures to help readers understand relationships between ideas. Recognizing these patterns helps you comprehend passages more quickly and answer questions accurately.
Common Text Structures
| Structure | Description | Signal Words |
|---|---|---|
| Sequence/Chronological | Events in time order | First, then, next, finally, after, before, dates |
| Cause and Effect | Why something happens and results | Because, therefore, since, as a result, consequently |
| Compare and Contrast | Similarities and differences | Similarly, however, unlike, both, whereas, on the other hand |
| Problem and Solution | Issue and how it is resolved | Problem, solution, solve, address, resolve |
| Description | Detailed account of a topic | For example, characteristics, features, consists of |
| Classification | Grouping by categories | Types, categories, groups, kinds, classified as |
Sequence/Chronological Order
Used when events or steps need to be understood in order.
Common in:
- Medical procedures
- Historical accounts
- Instructions and protocols
- Disease progression
Example: "First, wash your hands. Then, put on gloves. Next, prepare the injection site. Finally, administer the medication."
Cause and Effect
Shows relationships between events—what happens and why.
Common in:
- Disease mechanisms
- Treatment outcomes
- Scientific explanations
Example: "Because the patient stopped taking her medication, her blood pressure increased significantly."
Compare and Contrast
Highlights similarities and differences between two or more things.
Common in:
- Treatment comparisons
- Drug interactions
- Diagnostic differentiation
| Pattern | Focus | Example Signal |
|---|---|---|
| Compare | Similarities | "Both medications reduce inflammation" |
| Contrast | Differences | "Unlike aspirin, acetaminophen does not reduce swelling" |
Problem and Solution
Presents an issue and how it can be resolved.
Common in:
- Case studies
- Medical interventions
- Healthcare policy discussions
Example: "Many patients forget to take their medications. To address this, pharmacies now offer reminder apps and pill organizers."
Description/Definition
Provides detailed information about a topic.
Common in:
- Medical terminology
- Anatomical descriptions
- Disease characteristics
Identifying Text Structure
Steps to Identify Structure:
- Look for signal words (see table above)
- Ask: What is the author's purpose?
- Consider how ideas relate to each other
- Match the pattern to a structure type
Why Structure Matters for the TEAS
Understanding structure helps you:
- Predict what information comes next
- Locate specific details quickly
- Understand relationships between ideas
- Answer questions about organization
- Improve overall comprehension speed
Transition Words and Phrases
Transitions connect ideas and signal relationships:
| Purpose | Examples |
|---|---|
| Add information | Additionally, furthermore, moreover, also |
| Show contrast | However, nevertheless, on the other hand, conversely |
| Show cause/effect | Therefore, consequently, as a result, hence |
| Show time | First, subsequently, meanwhile, finally |
| Give examples | For instance, specifically, such as, to illustrate |
| Conclude | In conclusion, ultimately, in summary, finally |
Which text structure would most likely use the signal words "because," "therefore," and "as a result"?
A passage describes the similarities and differences between two blood pressure medications. What text structure is being used?
Which transition word signals that additional information is being added?