4. More on Text Structure
Today's Target: I can identify and write several different kinds of text structures -- using my notes -- especially the ones highlighted here.
- description/definition
- sequence
- chronological
- cause and effect
- compare/contrast
- problem and solution
- classification
--State Standards Writing 2a, Reading Informational Text 5
Activities for Text Structure
TS 1. In your composition book, list all the types of balls you can think of.
Definition of "ball" for our purposes: a solid or hollow sphere or ovoid, especially one that is kicked, thrown, or hit in a game.
Your notes will provide you with words to use when you write, so get as many as you can.
Text Structure
|
Signal Words
|
Description/definition
|
For example, to illustrate, characteristics of, for instance
such as…, to begin with, an example, characteristics are, is
•It emphasizes sizes, shapes, colors, and details.
*Look for the topic word (or a synonym or pronoun) to be repeated. |
Sequence
|
before, after, first, second, next, then, finally, following,
not long after, now, soon, when, previously, etc. |
Chronological
|
before, after, first, second, next, then, finally, following,
not long after, now, soon, in the end (dates, years, times, etc.) |
Cause and Effect
|
as a consequence, reasons why, so, because, since, therefore, if…then, this led to,
as a result, may be due to, effect of, consequently, for this reason |
Compare/Contrast
|
alike, different, same as, similar, resemble, as well as, not only…but also, both, instead of, on the other hand, different from, however, although, more than, less than, on the contrary,
as opposed to |
Problem/Solution
|
dilemma, question is…, the puzzle is…, to solve this…,
one answer is…, issue, |
Classification
*Look for the overall topic word to be repeated. | categories, characteristics, classes, classify, divide, dimensions, elements, features, groups, kinds, methods, aspects, (numbers), parts, sorts, types, ways |
For many signal words and questions in Spanish, see the second page of this document:
https://staff.rockwood.k12.mo.us/hermachcheryl/9lamaterials/Documents/LA_TextStructureSignalQuestions.pdfIf you would like extra practice, try this Text Structure Online Quiz: http://www.quia.com/quiz/1137258.html
In case you didn't get all the notes from the PowerPoint, here it is:
TS 3. Beach Ball Text Structure
a. Write a paragraph explaining how to blow up a beach ball, starting with the ball in its packaging. (Notice how its is spelled!) Use signal words! (Use the half-page provided. You'll write another paragraph on the back.)
Trade your paragraph with a neighbor as directed. Circle your neighbor's signal words.
Pass back the paragraph.
What structure are you using?
Did you put the steps in order?
Did you use signal words?
Small White Board Activity:
b. Which structure is each of these paragraphs? (3)
(You may use your notes on Text Structure/Purpose.)
(white boards and markers) elbow partners (or slap)
With your partner, write which
structure it is and two or more signal
words or other clues. Do not show
your board until told to do so.
