2. Cause and Effect Gives reasons for why or how something happens Problem and Solution Identifies a problem and offers solutions Question and Answer Poses a question and provides an answer Compare and Contrast Presents ideas and examines how they are alike and/or different Description Provides main ideas and supports them with descriptive details Sequence Gives information in a particular order

3.  Cause and effect is the relationship between two things when one thing makes something else happen.  For example, if we eat too much food and do not exercise, we gain weight. Eating food without exercising is the "cause;" weight gain is the "effect."  There may be multiple causes and multiple effects. Effects can form a chain in which one effect goes on to cause a second effect, which may then cause a third effect and so on.

4.  This text structure uses the process of identifying potential causes of a problem or issue in an orderly way. It is often used to teach social studies and science concepts.  Look for signal words that show cause/effect relationships: because, so, so that, if… then, consequently, thus, since, for, for this reason, as a result of, therefore, due to, this is how, nevertheless, and accordingly.

5.  In this text structure, the author states a problem and lists one or more solutions for the problem.  Look for these signal words and phrases: Problem is Dilemma is Puzzle is Solved Question… answer

6.  In this text structure, the author will ask a question, and then will offer an answer to the question.  Look for signal words similar to those of the problem/solution text structure.

7.  In this text structure, the author explains how two or more things are alike and/or how they are different  Look for these signal words: However, unlike, like, by contrast, yet, in comparison, although, whereas, similar to, different from

8.  This text structure is best when used to learn a lot of information about a topic and the author describes a topic by listing characteristics, features, examples. Sequence does not necessarily matter.  Look for these signal words: For example characteristics are for instance, specifically, in particular, in addition

9.  In this text structure, the author lists items or events in chronological or numerical order.  Look for these signal words: Next, first, last, second, another, then, additionally