Text Structures

Description

A topic, idea, person, place, or thing is described by listing its features, characteristics, or examples. Key words: for example, for instance, characteristics include, specifically, in addition

Problem & Solution

Author states a problem and solution(s). Key words: problem, issue, cause, since, consequently, therefore, as a result, because of, leads to, due to, solve, so, then

Cause & Effect

Explains reasons why something happened or explains the effects of something. Key words: since, because, if, due to, as a result of, so, then, leads to, consequently

Compare & Contrast

Shows what's in common and what's different. Key words: similar, alike, same, just like, both, different, unlike, in contrast, on the other hand

Sequence & Order

Steps described in the order they occur. Key words: before, in the beginning, to start, first, next, during, after, then, finally, last, in the middle, in the end