Informational Text Structures and Features

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What are informational text structures?

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Informational text structures are the ways in which information is organized in a text. Common structures include cause/effect, problem/solution, compare/contrast, and chronological order.

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What is a problem/solution text structure?

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A problem/solution text structure presents a problem and then discusses one or more solutions to that problem.

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What signal words indicate a problem/solution structure?

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Signal words for problem/solution include: 'one reason for', 'solve', 'because', 'may be due to', and 'a problem'.

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What is a cause/effect text structure?

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A cause/effect text structure explains why something happens (the cause) and what happens as a result (the effect).

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What signal words indicate a cause/effect structure?

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Signal words for cause/effect include: 'because', 'this is why', 'so', 'consequently', 'as a result', and 'if...then'.

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What is a compare/contrast text structure?

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A compare/contrast text structure discusses the similarities and differences between two or more subjects.

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What signal words indicate a compare/contrast structure?

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Signal words for compare/contrast include: 'similar to', 'different from', 'on the other hand', and 'however'.

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What is the purpose of a diagram in informational text?

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Diagrams help to visually represent information, making it easier to understand complex concepts or data.

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What is a glossary in an informational text?

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A glossary is a list of terms and their definitions, usually found at the end of a book, that helps readers understand specific vocabulary.

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What is an index in an informational text?

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An index is an alphabetical list of topics, names, or terms found in the text, along with page numbers where they can be found.