UNDERSTANDIN
HOW ACADEMIC
G ARE
TEXTS
ORGANIZED
TODAY'
LESSON OBJECTIVES
S
• Identify the structure of an
academic text
• Recognize signal words that reveal
how the text is organized
• Use text structure to help outline
WHY
TEXT STRUCTURE
MATTERS
• Academic texts follow patterns.
• These patterns help the reader:
➤ Understand how ideas are grouped
➤ Predict what comes next
➤ Organize information better when
outlining or summarizing
COMMON
ACADEMIC TEXT
STRUCTURES
CHRONOLOGICA
or
LEQUENTIAL
S
STRUCTURE
In academic texts, chronological structure
presents events or steps in the order they
happen, often used in procedural texts,
historical accounts, or research timelines.
SIGNAL
WORDS
First, next, then,
after, later, finally,
during, before
Example
Before the invention of the
telephone, people communicated
using letters. Then the telegraph
was developed. Finally, the
CAUSE AND
TEXT STRUCTURE:
This structure is used in academic texts
EFFECT
to explain reasons why something
happened (cause) and what
happened as a result (effect).
Common in science, health, and social
studies writing.
SIGNAL WORDS
Because, since, due to,
therefore, leads to,
results in, as a result
Example
Due to heavy rainfall,
several areas were flooded.
As a result, classes were
suspended.
PROBLEM-
STRUCTURE
SOLUTION
Academic texts use this structure to
present an issue and offer possible
ways to address it. It is common in
essays, position papers, and policy
writing.
SIGNAL WORDS
Problem, issue,
solution, solve,
address, resolve
Example
The issue of youth
unemployment can be
addressed by offering more
vocational training programs.
COMPARE AND
STRUCTURE
CONTRAST
This structure explains similarities
and/or differences between two or
more ideas, objects, or theories. Often
used in reviews, analyses, and
critiques.
SIGNAL WORDS
Similar, both, different,
unlike, however, on the
other hand
Example
Both cats and dogs make
great pets. However, dogs
require more outdoor
activity compared to cats.
CL ASSIFICATION
STRUCTURE
Academic texts use classification to
group information into categories
based on shared characteristics. This
helps organize ideas logically in reports
or expository texts.
SIGNAL WORDS
Types of, categories,
group, kinds of,
classified as, divided
into
Example
Students can be grouped
into three categories: visual
learners, auditory learners,
and kinesthetic learners.
Why is this important in Outlining?
Outlining becomes easier when you know how the
text is organized.
Knowing the text structure helps you:
•Find the main idea more quickly
•Group ideas correctly in your outline
•Organize information in a logical flow
HOW TO OUTLIN
ACADEMIC
TEXTS
WHAT IS AN
An outline is a tool used to organize
ideas from a text or plan your own
OUTLINE?
writing. It shows the hierarchy of
information — starting from the main
idea (or thesis) down to the supporting
details.
OUTLINING HELPS
• See the structure of the text
YOU
• Summarize key points
• Prepare for writing essays or
doing research
TYPES OF
OUTLIN
E
TOPIC
-Uses short
phrases
EXAMPLE:
OUTLINE
I. Reading improves the brain
A. Increases focus
B. Expands vocabulary
C. Develops comprehension
II. Reading improves academic performance
A. Helps in writing
B. Builds critical thinking
SENTENCE
-Uses complete
OUTLINE
sentence
EXAMPLE:
I. Reading improves the brain in many ways.
A. It increases students' ability to focus.
B. It introduces new vocabulary and language
patterns.
C. It enhances comprehension through
regular practice.
II. Reading leads to better academic
PARTS OF
AN
OUTLINE
An outline has 3 basic
levels:
•Main Idea (or thesis)
•Major Supporting Idea
•Minor Supporting
HOW TO MAKE
AN
OUTLINE
• Read the text carefully.
• Identify the main idea or
thesis.
• Look for major supporting
points (topic sentences).
• Add details/examples under
each point.
• Decide on your format: topic
Use a Sentence Outline
Use a Topic Outline when: when:
You need full detail and
You need a quick overview structure
You are planning a short You are preparing for formal
task or oral presentation writing
You are brainstorming or You are writing a report,
studying essay, or paper
PRACTICE
ACTIVITY
The Philippine education
system evolved over time. It
began with indigenous learning,
was transformed during the
Spanish period, expanded
under American rule, and was
revised after independence.
Youth apathy toward political
issues is growing because of
misinformation online and lack
of civic education. As a result,
voter turnout among first-time
voters is decreasing.
Unlike authoritarian
governments, democracies
allow citizens to vote and
express their opinions. Both
systems maintain law and
order, but their methods differ
greatly.
There are different types of
Philippine literature: oral
literature, religious writings,
and revolutionary texts. Each
reflects a unique historical
context.
