Non-Fiction Organizational Techniques

Question 1

describes an event that is caused by another event. Signal words – because, due to, if this…then, since, as a result, consequently, hence, therefore

Answer 1

Cause and Effect

Question 2

details are told in the time order in which they happened. Signal words – after, as soon as, before, during, eventually, finally, following, immediately, in/on (date), later, next, meanwhile, then

Answer 2

Chronological Order

Question 3

emphasizes similarities and differences between topics. Signal words – both, likewise, similarly, although, as opposed to, but, despite, however, on the other hand, instead of, unlike, yet

Answer 3

Comparison and Contrast

Question 4

presents a problem with a possible solution. Signal words – answer, challenge, dilemma, improve, indicate, propose, remedied, resolve, solve

Answer 4

Problem and Solution

Question 5

describes a physical location or position in space. Signal words – above, adjacent to, below, behind, between, nearby, next to, outside, over, toward, under, within, without

Answer 5

Spatial Order

Question 6

divides a topic into parts or groups to discuss them. Signal words – categories, classes, comprises, composed of, stages of, divisions, elements, features, types, varieties, ways

Answer 6

Classification

Question 7

details support the main idea as a list of steps or stages. Signal words – accordingly, after that, how to, series, stages

Answer 7

Sequence or Process

Question 8

A list in which items are indicated as more important than others. Signal words – chief, least, most, major, main, key, most essential, primarily, principal, significant

Answer 8

Order of Importance