Nonfiction text structure is the way an author organizes information. Five common structures are description, order and sequence, cause and effect, compare and contrast, and problem and solution. This guide explains each structure, lists signal words, and includes free sketch notes and a mini-poster you can request by email.
Nonfiction Text Structure 1: Descriptive
Definition: Text that provides details or characteristics of a topic. Informational texts that paint a mental picture
Keywords and Phrases: for example, for instance, characteristics, specifically, another
Nonfiction Text Structure 2: Order and Sequence
Definition: Text that provides steps in a procedure or events in chronological order
Keywords and Phrases: first, next, during, before, after, then, last, finally, in the beginning, in the end, to start
Nonfiction Text Structure 3: Cause and Effect
Definition: Text that describes an event or events (cause) and the events (effect) that follow
Keywords and Phrases: because, since, due to, as a result, so then, consequently, leads to
Nonfiction Text Structure 4: Compare and Contrast
Definition: Text that describes how two things are similar and different
Keywords and Phrases: similar, alike, same, both, just like, unlike, different, in contrast, on the other hand
Nonfiction Text Structure 5: Problem and Solution
Definition: Text that describes a problem and explains one or more solutions
Keywords and Phrases: issue, cause, since, problem, therefore, consequently, leads to, because of, so, then, solve
Familiarizing your students with these text structures and their keywords and phrases will set them up for success when reading in science, social studies, and other technical areas.
I created a set of “sketch/doodle notes” to help your students learn and remember the five most common types of nonfiction text structures. These notes will allow your students to create a visual (doodle), write a brief definition, and list keywords and phrases for each text structure. BONUS: I also created a classroom mini-poster.
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Nonfiction and Fiction Reading Passages for the Entire School Year:
