Five Expository Text Structures

and their Associated Signal Words

Cue Words
Pattern Description Graphic Organizer
(signal words)
Description The author • for example
describes a topic • characteristics
by listing • for instance
characteristics, • such as
features, • is like
attributes, and • including
examples
• to illustrate
Sequence The author lists • first
items or events in • second
numerical or • third
chronological • later
sequence, either • next 1.__________________
explicit or • before 2.__________________
implied 3.__________________
• then
4.__________________
• finally
• after
• when
• later
• since
• now
• previously
• actual use of
dates
Comparison Information is • however
presented by • nevertheless
detailing how two • on the other hand
or more events, • but
concepts, • similarly
theories, or things • although
are alike and/or
• also
different
• in contrast Alike Different
• different _________ _________
• alike _________ _________
• same as _________ _________
• either/or
• in the same way
• just like
• just as
• likewise
• in comparison
• where as
• yet
Cause and The author • if/then
Effect presents ideas, • reasons why
events in time, or • as a result Effect #1
facts as causes • therefore
and the resulting • because
effect(s) or facts • consequently
that happen as a
• since
result of an event.
• so that Cause Effect #2
• for
• hence
• due to
• thus
• this led to Effect #3

Problem and The author • problem is

Solution presents a • dilemma is
Problem
problem and one • if/then
or more solutions • because
to the problem • so that
• question/answer
• puzzle is solved
Solution