English for Academic and Professional Purposes Text Structure.pptx

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Topic:Text Structure

1. Text Structure in Academic Writing

2. What is Text Structure? The way authors organize information in text Helps readers understand how ideas are related Common structures: description, sequence, problem/solution, cause/effect, compare/contrast

3. Why is Text Structure Important? Improves comprehension and retention of information Helps organize ideas while reading Allows readers to make connections between details Aids in summarizing key points

4. Identifying Text Structure Look for signal words that indicate structure Pay attention to headings and subheadings Consider the author's purpose for writing Ask yourself: How is this information organized?

5. Common Text Structures

6. Common Text Structures Text structures (WDPI, 2012) refer to the way authors organize information in text. Recognizing the underlying structure of texts can help students focus attention on key concepts and relationships, anticipate what is to come, and monitor their comprehension as they read.

7. Narrative Text Structure

8. Chronological, Process, or Sequence Text Structure

9. Sequence Text Structure Presents information in chronological order Used for instructions, historical events, or processes Helps readers understand the order of events or steps Signal words: first, next, then, finally, before, after

10. Cause and Effect Text Structure Shows relationships between events or ideas Explains why something happened (cause) and what happened as a result (effect) Can have multiple causes for one effect or vice versa Signal words: because, since, consequently, as a result, therefore

11. Problem/Solution Text Structure Identifies a problem and proposes one or more solutions Often used in persuasive writing Can present multiple solutions and evaluate each Signal words: problem is, dilemma, puzzle, solved, answer

12. Compare and Contrast Text Structure Examines similarities and differences between two or more things Can be organized by subject or by characteristics Helps readers understand relationships and make connections Signal words: similarly, in contrast, whereas, however, but

13. Compare and Contrast Text Structure does the author reach about these items?

14. Descriptive Text Structure Provides details about a topic, person, place, or event Uses vivid language to create a picture in the reader's mind Often uses spatial organization (top to bottom, left to right) Example signal words: for example, characteristics, for instance

15. Definition or Description Text Structure

16. Practice: Identify the Structure Read the following paragraph and identify its text structure: "The American Revolution had several causes. The colonists were angry about taxation without representation. They also resented British control over trade. Additionally, the presence of British troops in the colonies created tension. These factors led to growing discontent and eventually sparked the war for independence."

17. Answer: Cause and Effect The paragraph explains causes of the American Revolution It lists multiple causes (taxation, trade control, troop presence) The effect is stated at the end (war for independence) Signal phrases: "had several causes", "led to", "sparked"

18. Using Text Structure in Your Writing Choose a structure that fits your purpose Use appropriate signal words to guide your reader Organize your ideas logically within the chosen structure Consider using multiple structures in longer pieces of writing

19. Description Structure Example "The coral reef was a vibrant underwater city. Colorful fish darted between the coral branches like cars on a busy street. Sea anemones waved their tentacles gently, resembling flowers in a breeze. The rough texture of the coral contrasted with the smooth, undulating movements of a nearby sea turtle."

20. Sequence Structure Example "To make a peanut butter sandwich, first gather your ingredients: bread, peanut butter, and a knife. Next, spread peanut butter on one slice of bread. Then, place the second slice on top. Finally, cut the sandwich diagonally and enjoy your snack." How does this example use signal words to indicate sequence?

21. Problem/Solution Structure Example "Plastic pollution is a major problem in our oceans. Marine animals often mistake plastic for food, leading to injury or death. One solution is to reduce single-use plastics by using reusable bags and water bottles. Another approach is to improve recycling programs to prevent plastic from entering waterways."

22. Cause and Effect Structure Example "Because of increased greenhouse gas emissions, global temperatures are rising. As a result, polar ice caps are melting at an alarming rate. This is causing sea levels to rise, which in turn threatens coastal communities and ecosystems." Can you identify the causes and effects in this passage?

23. Compare and Contrast Structure Example "While both e-books and printed books allow readers to enjoy stories, they differ in several ways. E-books are more portable and can store thousands of titles in one device. However, printed books offer a tactile experience and don't require battery power. E-books can be instantly downloaded, whereas printed books may need to be ordered or purchased in person."

24. Mixing Text Structures Longer texts often use multiple structures Example: A history textbook chapter might use: 1. Sequence for chronological events 2. Cause and effect to explain historical changes 3. Compare and contrast for different perspectives Recognizing shifts in structure improves comprehension

25. Practice: Writing with Text Structure Choose one of the following topics and write a short paragraph using a specific text structure: 1. Your favorite hobby (Description) 2. How to make your bed (Sequence) 3. Climate change (Problem/Solution) 4. The effects of social media (Cause and Effect) 5. High school vs. college (Compare and Contrast)

26. Conclusion: Mastering Text Structure Recognizing text structures improves reading comprehension Using appropriate structures enhances your own writing Practice identifying and using different structures Remember to use signal words to guide your reader Question: How can you apply your knowledge of text structures in your academic writing?