Nonfiction Text Structure

Choose the clue words that indicate compare and contrast.

• therefore, cause, effect, consequently
• later, then, next, Monday
• similar, different, common, on the other hand
• possibility, struggle, hope, problem

Choose the clue words that indicate sequence.

• first, next, finally, 8:30, after
• cause, effect, as a result of, because
• problem, solution, promise, struggle
• compare, contrast, similar, different

Choose the clue words that indicate cause and effect.

• next, after, then, first, last
• struggle, promise, problem, solution
• consequently, as a result of, so, therefore
• similar, common, compare, contrast

Read the following paragraph. Which text structure is used?
Have you ever made macaroni and cheese? It’s simple! First, boil some water and make some macaroni. Then, make your cheese sauce. After the cheese sauce is ready, mix it with the macaroni. Bake the entire thing in the oven. Finally, it’s time to eat!

• sequence
• compare and contrast
• description
• problem and solution

Read the following paragraph. Which text structure is used?
The Cardinal and the Cedar Waxwing are two common birds. Both have crests on their heads. Both are common at birdfeeders. But the birds have some differences. The male Cardinal is a bright red, while the Waxwing is brown.  The Cedar Waxwing often migrates from place to place. On the other hand, the Cardinal stays in one place year after year.

• compare and contrast
• problem and solution
• description
• cause and effect

Read the following paragraph. Which text structure is used?
The pond was a beautiful place to visit. The falling leaves, all different colors, decorated the surface of the water. At the edges of the pond, small wildflowers grew. The golden forest glowed faintly in the distance.

• compare and contrast
• main idea/description
• chronological
• problem and solution

Read the following paragraph. Which text structure is used? 
Why do you need to get exercise? It is good for your body. It makes your heart, muscles, and bones strong. It makes you feel better if you have a bad day. If you exercise, you will stay at a healthy weight.

• cause and effect
• description
• problem and solution
• sequence

The text structure that describes the order steps occurred is called_______.

• Cause and Effect
• Sequence
• Compare and Contrast
• Problem and Siolution

When the author explains why something happens or explains the effects of something, what text structure are they using?

• problem and solution
• compare and contrast
• cause and effect
• sequence

Read the following paragraph. Which text structure is used?
Some dogs and cats do not have homes. People started animal shelters to take care of these animals and solve the problem of homeless animals. At the shelters, dogs and cats get food and water. They get to play with other dogs and cats. Sometimes, people bring a lost animal to the shelter. Some of these dogs and cats get a new home! People come to animal shelters to get a new pet. 

• cause and effect
• description
• problem and solution
• compare and contrast