Text Structure

Key Words

Concept and Definition

The writer describes or explains a topic or phenomenon by listing unique characteristics, features, and examples.

for example, involves, can be, defined, for instance, also, within, contain, make up

Sequence

The writer either tells the reader how to do something (step-by-step) or describes how something is done or happened.

to begin with, first, second, in addition, next, then, last, finally, another, also, earlier, later, now before, after, following, while, meanwhile, during, not long, when, on (date)

Compare and Contrast

The writer explains the similarities and differences between at least two objects or ideas. The purpose is to develop the relationship between them and, in the process, explain both in detail.

different from, same as, alike, like, similar to, unlike, as well as, yet, either . . . or, not only . . . but also, compared to, in contrast, while, resembles, although, most, however, on the other hand, opposite, opposed to, similarly

Cause and Effect

The writer presents a reason or motive for an event, situation, or trend and then explains its result or consequence.

because, so that, thus, unless, therefore, as a result of, led to, then, reasons for, then . . . so, for this reason, consequently, an explanation for, this reason, nevertheless, thus, accordingly