Senior High School

Reading and Writing Skills

Quarter 3 - Module 1 Reading & Thinking Strategies across Text Types

Learning Competency 1: Compare and contrast patterns of written texts across

disciplines.
Paragraph Development - EN11/12RWS-IIIbf-3
Narration - EN11/12RWS-IIIbf-3.1
Description - EN11/12RWS-IIIbf-3.2
Definition - EN11/12RWS-IIIbf-3.3
Classification - EN11/12RWS-IIIbf-3.4
Comparison & Contrast - EN11/12RWS-IIIbf-3.5
Cause & Effect - EN11/12RWS-IIIbf-3.6
Problem-Solution - EN11/12RWS-IIIbf-3.7
Persuasion - EN11/12RWS-IIIbf-3.8

LESSON 1: PARAGRAPH DEVELOPMENT

This part of the module discusses about paragraph writing. It includes the various techniques or patterns in
developing a paragraph. It also explains the elements involved in paragraph writing. Each method or pattern is
followed by writing activities to test your ability and theoretical knowledge in writing unified, coherent and
emphatic paragraphs.
By the end of this lesson, you are expected to:
1. compare and contrast patterns of written texts across disciplines:
a. Narration
b. Description & Definition
c. Classification
d. Comparison & Contrast
e. Cause and Effect
f .Problem-Solution
g. Persuasion

To achieve the objectives of this module, do the following:

Take your time reading the lessons carefully.
Follow the directions and/or instructions in the activities and exercises diligently.
Answer all the given tests and exercises.

Before heading on to our lesson, let us first check what you already know. Read the statements carefully, and
determine what is being referred to, then write your answers on the blanks provided before each number.
___________1. It is a method of writing a paragraph by drawing pictures with words.
___________2. This method of paragraph development involves similarities and differences between two things.
___________3. This gives a written account of an event or story.
___________4. This is a collection of related sentences with one central idea.
___________5. This pattern of development classifies or divides people, places, things or ideas into categories.
LESSON 1.1: WRITING PARAGRAPH
The word paragraph is associated with two Greek words: para which means “beyond” or “beside” and graphein
which means “to write”.
A paragraph is a collection of related sentences with one central idea. Each sentence shows connection to other
sentences in the paragraph.
A paragraph is an independent unit or a related unit. As an independent unit, it is complete in itself. As a related
unit, it is a part of a composition that is combined with other paragraphs to make a larger composition.
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Whether a paragraph is an independent unit or a related unit, it has its beginning, middle and end.
DEVELOPING EFFECTIVE PARAGRAPHS. One of the most important elements in writing is the form or structure. It is
worth noting that without a solid structure in place, the content you have gathered would fall apart. After
constructing an outline and writing your first draft, it is time to get on to paragraph writing. An effective paragraph
shows the unity of the sentences used in developing the main idea. A paragraph is made up of the topic sentence
which contains the main idea, the supporting details and the conclusion or the clinching sentence at the end. Topic
sentence – reveals the main or central idea of the paragraph. It does not necessarily have to be placed at the
beginning of the paragraph. It may be found in the middle of the first and the last sentence or at the end. If it is
found at the end of the paragraph, it may be used as a clinching or concluding sentence. Supporting details – give
the paragraph life as it elaborates on the scope given by the topic sentence. Clinching sentence – closes your
paragraph. According to Dagdag (2010), this “may be a restatement of the topic sentence, a summary, or a
conclusion based on the supporting details.”
Activity 1: Read each of the following paragraphs. After each of paragraph are lines. On the line, write the topic
sentence.

1. Oceans and lakes have much in common, but they are also quite different. Both are bodies of water, but
oceans are very large bodies of salt water, while lakes are much smaller bodies of fresh water. Lakes are usually
surrounded by land, while oceans are what surround continents. Both have plants and animals living in them.
The ocean is home to the largest animals on the planet, whereas lakes support much smaller forms of life.
When it is time for a vacation, both will make a great place to visit and enjoy. I want to swim in the lake.
Topic Sentence:
________________________________________________________________
2. Sunset is the time of day when our sky meets the outer space solar winds. There are blue, pink, and purple
swirls, spinning and twisting, like clouds of balloons caught in a blender. Sunset is the opposite of sunrise. The sun
moves slowly to hide behind the line of horizon, while the moon races to take its place in prominence atop the
night sky. People slow to a crawl, entranced, fully forgetting the deeds that still must be done. There is a coolness,
a calmness, when the sun does set.
Topic Sentence:
________________________________________________________________
3. Here is the perfect system for cleaning your room. First, move all of the items that do not have a proper place to
the center of the room. Get rid of at least five things that you have not used within the last year. Take out all of the
trash, and place all of the dirty dishes in the kitchen sink. Now find a location for each of the items you had placed
in the center of the room. 5s is a Japanese cleaning system. For any remaining items, see if you can squeeze them
in under your bed or stuff them into the back of your closet. See, that was easy!
Topic Sentence: ________________________________________________________________

LESSON 1.2: NARRATION

Narration, from the root word narrates, originated from the Latin word narrare— which means related or told.
It gives a written account of an event or story, or simply, storytelling. The sequence of events is told in
chronological order. It usually contains the following: the who, what and when.
A narrative must have “vivid description of details, a consistent point of view and verb tense, and a well-defined
point or significance.” (Tiongson, 2016). At the end of writing it, it must send a clear message to its readers through
the story.
A narrative paragraph simply tells what happened and establishes facts. It is sharing of personal experiences that
offer lessons and insights. It is more than just a chronological sequence of events that happen to the
different characters. It also contains elements of drama and tension.
Narration is the most common type of paragraph development. It has the following elements:
Setting. It is the time and location in which a story takes place.
Characters. The life-giving element of the story.
Plot. It is the logical series of events in the story.
The five essential parts of the plot are: Exposition. It is the part of the story where the characters and the
setting are revealed.

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Rising Action. It is where the events in the story become complicated and the conflict in the story is
exposed. Climax. This is the highest point of interest and the turning point of the story.
Falling Action. The events and complications begin to resolve themselves.
Denouement. The final resolution of the plot in the story.
Point of View. It is the perspective of the writer in narrating the story.
First person point of view. The story is told by the protagonist or one of the characters using pronouns I ,
me , we.
Second person point of view. The author tells the story in second point of view using the pronouns you ,
yours, and your.
Third person point of view. The narrator is not part of the story but describes the events that happen. The
writer uses the pronouns he, she, him, and her.
Activity 2: Read the story “Not Necessary News From The Beat” and answer the comprehension questions
that follow.
Palace liaison in Congress Jesus Ayala has an incident to share with friends, after meeting a world-renowned
missionary, Mother Teresa of Calcutta, India last week. When Mother Teresa dubbed a “ living saint “ in religious
circles, paid a courtesy call on President Aquino at the Malacanang Premier Guest House Thursday
afternoon last week, Chito was one among the palace staff members who eagerly lived up to have a
glimpsed of the 79-year-old nun. It was blessing that Chito even had the chance to kiss Mother Teresa’s
hands. And, on bended knees, Chito publicly confessed. “Bless me, Mother Teresa for I have many sins, “he
whispered to her. (Reprinted from: Philippine Daily Inquirer “Not Necessary from the Beat”).
COMPREHENSION QUESTIONS
1. Who is the main character of the story?
a. Jesus Ayala c. President Aquino
b. Mother Teresa d. Palace Station
2. Where is the setting of the narrated story?
a. Malacanang Guest House c. Office
b. Garden d. Sala
3. Who is the world –renowned missionary?
a. Chito Ayala c. Sta. Rita
b. Mother Teresa d. Pres. Aquino
4. Where is the setting of the narrated story?
a.Spain c. Philippines
b. Calcuta, India d. Malaysia
5. Who is the president mentioned in the story?
a. Pres. Estrada c. Pres. Aquino
b. Pres. Macapagal d. Pres. Duterte

LESSON 1.3: DESCRIPTION

 Description gives information of what a person, an object, a place or a situation is like.
 It appeals to the reader’s senses.
 A descriptive paragraph has concrete and specific details, which are carefully chosen by a writer to
paint a picture in the mind of the reader.

Descriptive writing emphasizes a reader’s ability to paint vivid pictures using words on a reader’s mind. This relies
on the writer’s ability to appeal to his/her five senses: the sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing.
To rouse feelings, emotions and reactions from the readers is what descriptive paragraphs aim for. Simple
adjectives will not simply cut it for readers desiring for appropriate description of an event, thing, place or person.
According to Dagdag (2010), there are two types of description: objective and subjective. Objective description is
a factual description of the topic at hand. This relies its information on physical aspects and appeals to those who
crave for facts. Meanwhile, subjective description allows the writer to explore ways to describe an emotion, an

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 event, a thing, a place or person, appealing to emotions. Often, this is an artistic way of describing things, mostly
from the eye and perspective of the writer.
Activity 3: Try these writing activities. Use your imagination!
1. Imagine yourself somewhere in the forest. You cannot find your way to get back home. Write a short paragraph
describing your sensations. You may use the word bank list to help you express your sensations.
2. Then imagine yourself still in the forest. You continue walking and you get lost along the way and you really don’t
know where to go. You get tired, so you sit under a tree. Suddenly, a lady appears in front of you! How would you
describe the lady so that others could imagine her?

LESSON 1.4: DEFINITION

Definition explains a concept, term or subject. Its main purpose is to tell what something is.
It consists of three parts: (1) the term, concept or subject to be defined; (2) the general class to which it belongs; and
(3) the characteristics that differentiate it from the other members of its class.
A definition explains what a term means. When you want your readers to know exactly how you are using a
certain term or an unfamiliar concept , you use definition.
Definition is the main constituent of any dictionary. In developing a paragraph by definition, you should take
account of these things: the term to be defined; the class to which the term belongs; the characteristics that
distinguish the term from the other members of its class.
Take a look at this example of a definition:
An owl is a bird with a large head, strong talons and has a nocturnal habit.
Owl – is the term to defined
Bird – is the class where the owl belongs with a large head, strong talons and has a nocturnal habit – are the
characteristics that distinguish the owl from the other birds.
The following are the different types of definitions:
1. Formal Definition. The definitions provided in dictionaries.
2. Informal Definitions. The three common informal definitions are operational definitions, synonyms, and
connotations.
3. Operational Definitions gives the meaning of an abstract word for one particular time and place.
4. Synonyms or words that mean the same as another word.
5. Denotation is the exact meaning of the word
6. Connotation is an idea or meaning suggested by or associated with a word or things. .
7. Definition Paragraph. It is a definition sentence which is extended into a paragraph by adding meanings,
descriptions, narrations , and other kinds of paragraph development to make clear the term being defined.
Activity 4: Try to develop a paragraph by using the definition method. Choose your topic from the words listed
below. Define the term and expand it by description or giving examples.
1. Education 2. Senior High School 3. Family 4. COVID-19 5. Student

LESSON 1.5: CLASSIFICATION

Classification paragraphs group items into categories, to establish a clear distinction.
If the topic encompasses a large body of information, one effective way of elaborating it is through classifying things
of distinct features into groups/classes.
Classification groups items into categories to establish a clear distinction between related or similar ideas. Similar
items are grouped into categories for the readers to better understand and analyze the material at hand.
In a classification paragraph you tell readers how a collection of items can be sorted into categories. It is an
activity of sorting items (people, things, ideas) into categories.
Terms that signal classification
Aspects kinds qualities traits areas levels systems types
Transitional Expressions
can be divided can be categorized can be classifies the first type
Activity 5: Read the paragraph below and answer the questions that follow.

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 Types of Friends
Friends can be classified according to their honesty , loyalty , the type that fits you into their schedule ,
or the type that finds time for you when they need something. An honest friend tells you the truth even if
it’s not always what you want to hear. In the long run , that honest friend may have saved you from
embarrassment or possibly rejection. They give you constructive criticisms overall. The loyal friend is the
type of friend that will be there for you through the thick and thin. They don’t care how good or bad you
may look one day; they are sensitive to your feelings , they respect you and the other people in your life,
and most of all they will never let you down when times are hard. They may be what you call a best
friend. The third group, the person that fits you into their schedule , is the type of person that is always
on the go. They barely have time for themselves let alone another person. More than likely they will not be
there for you when you need them most, because they are so wrapped up in their busy , hectic life. Then
you have the self-absorbent type of friend that finds time for you only when they need something. This type
of person isn’t what you would call a friend. This person may always be extremely nice to you because they
know that if are nice to you then they will more than likely get what they want. They will call you every
once in a while when it is almost time for them to use that person again. It may be for a ride to work, home or
they just want somebody to hang out with because they have no other friends. If the person that is being used is
smart they will eventually realize that they are getting used and will stop being there for that person. (Amy
Neil, 2005)
Comprehension Questions
1.What are the three types of friends?
2.What is the basis used by the author to classify friends?
3.How does the author develop the classification essay?

LESSON 1.6: COMPARISON AND CONTRAST

 A comparison tells how two things are similar. A contrast tells how they are
different.
 A paragraph developed by comparison and contrast has a unifying idea or
purpose of attempting to weigh decisions between two ideas or subjects.
 A comparison and contrast paragraph must be balanced in such a way that there
is an equal amount of information for each subject to avoid bias.

There are two ways in writing a comparison and contrast paragraph.

1. Subject – by - Subject Method. You present all of the facts and supporting
details about one topic , and then you give all the facts and supporting
details about the other topic.

2. Point – by - Point Arrangement. You discuss each point for both subjects
before giving on the next point.

W
hat is it?
Activity 6: Write sentences by comparing and contrasting the given pictures below.
1. Classroom Laboratory

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 Similarities
: ____________________________________________________
Differences: ____________________________________________________

2. Computer Calculator

Similarities: ____________________________________________________
Differences: ____________________________________________________

LESSON 1.7: CAUSE AND EFFECT

A cause is what makes a particular thing happen.

An effect is what results from a particular situation, activity, or behavior.
A paragraph developed by causal analysis must not only raise the question why, but also give answers to the
satisfaction of the reader.
Cause and Effect paragraphs are written for the following purposes:  to discuss why a certain phenomenon
occurs;
to discuss the results of a phenomenon, event, feeling or action; to understand a situation; to solve a problem; to
predict an outcome; to entertain; to persuade
Some of the signal words used in this type of paragraph are the following:
For, Because, Since, Due to, So, But, For this reason, As a result, Consequently, Otherwise, Therefore, Thus
What is it? Activity 7: Read the passage below and answer the questions that follow.

The Influence of Video Games to Children

Video games have been a part of children’s life for the past few decades. It all started when Atari came up
with its first gaming consul, which included a very simple game of tennis. The controller had just 1 stick and 1
button to play with. Now, we have many different types of consuls available in the market with very complex
games that requires controllers with two or more sticks and a variety of buttons. Video games are almost second
nature to the modern children and they are more comfortable playing them. Playing video games can have many
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 different effects (both positive as well as negative) on children. Some of this effects include increasing hand eye
coordination and increasing dexterity mental skills; a decrease interest in other interest such as studies and
sports; and a very negative effect of inducing violence.
One of the most positive effects of video games is increasing the dexterity of a child and improving his or her
hand eye coordination. As mentioned earlier, the new video games that are coming out are extremely complex
and they involve the movement of many different kinds of sticks and buttons on the controllers. These can be
very good for children as they learn to make the fast connections between what they see and what their hands
and fingers are doing. This allows them to think quickly and improves their reflexes. The newest games are very
precision-based and it takes very minute and accurate movements for the children to control the characters. This
helps in making the children much more a depth at handling and operating real-life machinery and objectives.
Another effect that playing video games have on children is that they tend to get addicted to playing this
games and give them foremost priority. This takes the children away from their other responsibilities, such as
doing house chores, homework, and other physical activities. Children also end at spending more time playing
video games in front of television screens than playing real and actual sports that involve physical exercise. This in
turn can have many health related problems for children, as they can get obese if they don’t exercise ad stay
home playing video games. This is perhaps the worst negative effect that video games can have on children.
Parents and educators all over the world are concern about this phenomenon and they are urging the children to
not spend so much time playing video games. Many new video games consuls, such as the new Nintendo WII
have come out with games that require users to actually get up and move.
Many researchers have talked about the effects of viewing violence in the media and how it affects children.
Video games takes this to another level, where the children are actually participating in being violent in the video
games. There are many games out there that allow children to play arm bearing characters who can kill anyone
that they want, steal cars, and commit many different kinds of crime. These games can have negative
implications on the children as they get immune to the idea of committing crime and end up believing that it is
alright. Research still on going on this negative effect and it has not entirely been proven or disproven as of yet.
We find that plain video games can have various effects on children, both positive as well as negative. Even
though children can benefit by increasing their dexterity and improving their reflexes, the cost of them losing out
on their physical exercise and homework, as well as their becoming prone to violent acts, are way too much. It is
important that the parents and educators take up this problem seriously and enable certain rules and regulations
that allow children to divide their time responsively between playing video games and completing their studies
and other responsibilities. (Source: www.tailoredessays.com/samples/video-games-affect-children-essay.htm)
Comprehension Questions
1. Why are video games popular with children?

2. What are the positive effects of playing video games?

3. What are the negative effects of playing video games?

Lesson 1.8: Problem – Solution

In composing this type of essay, you must present an argument or stand and support it with reliable evidence order
to persuade the readers to make a particular move or action (Kemper et.al, 2016).
In composition writing, problem-solution is a method for analyzing and writing about a topic by identifying a
problem and proposing one or more solutions.
Problem-solution paragraphs as the term implies, presents and identifies a problem and proposes possible
solution/s.
According to Soles (2010), topics for problem-solution essays “are typically framed in the form of questions.”
Problem-solution essay can provide answers to 5W and 1H (who, what, when, where, why, and how) questions.
Soles (2010) added that this type of essay has essentially two parts: “a full explanation of the nature of the problem,
followed by an analysis of solutions and their likelihood of success.” Structure of paragraphs in a problem-solution
essay:
Nordquist (1995) suggested the following structure of a problem-solution paper that may serve as a guide on
what to include in this type of essay:

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Introduction. At the forefront of the essay, the introduction must serve to capture the reader’s attention. This may
contain the thesis statement wherein the problem or topic at hand is presented. This is where the problem is
defined, and the reason why it is significant to a specific group of people (or the target audience).
Problem Paragraph. This paragraph/s will dwell on the elaboration of the problem, effectively conveying the
importance of a solution. You may present reliable sources and evidence to support your stand.
Solution Paragraph. Present and describe a concrete solution to the problem. Explain how this solution is better
than other probable solutions.
Conclusion. Conclude the essay with connection between the problem and its proposed solution.
Activity 8: Directions: Read the passage below and complete the graphic organizer that follows.
Deforestation is a serious problem because it destroys forests—and forests and trees are not just pretty to look
at, they do an important job making the earth´s environment suitable for life. They clean the air, store water,
preserve oil, and provide homes for animals. They also supply food, fuel, wood products, and paper products for
humans. In the past fifty years, more than half of the world´s rainforests have been destroyed.
Today, all around the world, deforestation continues, the world´s climate may change, floods may become more
common, and animals will die. One solution to the problem of deforestation is to use less paper. If you use less
paper, fewer trees will be cut for paper making. How can you use less paper? One answer is to reduce your paper
use by using both sides of the paper when you photocopy, write a letter, or write an essay. A second answer is to
reuse old paper when you can, rather than using a new sheet of paper. The backs of old envelopes are perfect for
shopping list or phone messages, and when you write a rough draft of an essay, write it on the back of something
else. A final answer is to recycle used paper products instead of throwing them away. Most schools, offices, and
districts have some kind of recycling center. If you follow "the three Rs"- reduce, reuse, and recycle-you can help
save the world´s forest.

Use the figure above

as your guide

LESSON 1.9: PERSUASION

Persuasive paragraph tries to convince the reader that a particular point of view is worthy of consideration. It wants
you to consider both sides of an issue, but it reveals a bias in favor of one side over another. A persuasive paragraph
intends to convince readers to do or believe in something. Knowing how to write a persuasive paragraph allows you
to express your personal conviction or opinion about an issue or topic and make the readers agree with or adopt
your conviction or opinion. Much like problem-solution essays, persuasion essays seek to urge readers to take a
particular action (Forlini, et.al, 1990). The main goal of persuasive essays is to convince the reader to agree to the
writer’s opinion or at the very least, take it into serious consideration.
According to Forlini (1990), “the purpose of persuasive writing is to obtain the reader’s agreement on a matter of
opinion.” The statements given in persuasive essays are heavy on opinion while based on facts. The opinions of the
writer must be (a) controversial enough or something that would inspire conversation and debate, (b) significant and
interesting, and (c) supported by evidence. (Forlini, 1990). It is also vital that in order to prove your stand, you must

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thoroughly research about the issue you are about to discuss. Make a list of your strongest arguments composed of
facts and data. Introduce a new reason or fact with every paragraph.

Activity 9: Write a paragraph with the topic “I Changed My _________”. (e.g. lifestyle, attitude, priorities, eating
habits, mind, etc.). Devote your attention to the cause of your change and its effects.
What I Have Learned
A paragraph is a collection of related sentences with one central idea. Each sentence shows connection to other
sentences in the paragraph.
A paragraph has a sentence, topic sentence, supporting details, and a clinching
There are many ways of developing a paragraph, such as: narration, description, definition, classification,
comparison and contrast, cause and effect, problem-solution and persuasion.
Assessment
After our lesson, let us now check what you have learned. Read the statements carefully, and determine what is
being referred to, then write your answers on the blanks provided before each number.
____________________1. It is a method of writing a paragraph by drawing pictures with words.
____________________2. This method of paragraph development involves similarities and differences between two
things.
____________________3. This gives a written account of an event or story.
____________________4. This is a collection of related sentences with one central idea.
____________________5. This pattern of development classifies or divides people, places, things or ideas into
categories. You have co Good luck!

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 Senior High School

Reading and Writing Skills

Quarter 3-Module 2: Reading & Thinking
Strategies across Text Types

Learning Competency 2: Evaluate a

written text based on its properties (organization, coherence and cohesion, language use and
mechanics) S2 Q3 EN11/12RWS-IIIgh4

LESSON 2: PROPERTIES OF A WELL-WRITTEN TEXT

When you have already gathered enough materials in developing your paragraphs or text, the next step is to
organize properly. Then you need to determine which ideas should be used in the beginning, middle and end of
your texts— coherence and cohesion should be considered in arranging your ideas. The mechanics of writing
should be observed too, like capitalization, contractions and punctuation marks. Lastly, you need to determine
the type of language you are going to use for you to be able to communicate with your target audience. All of
the things mentioned above is what this module is all about.

By the end of this lesson, you are expected to:

1. discuss the meaning and components of a well-written text;
2. explain the steps in achieving a well-written text;
3. read and explore texts and determine if they are well-written or not
4. create a well-written text; and
5. reflect on your learning on the properties of a well-written text
To achieve the objectives of this module, do the following:
1.Take your time reading the lessons carefully.
2. Follow the directions and/or instructions in the activities and exercises diligently.
3. Answer all the given tests and exercises.

Before heading on to our lesson, let us first check what you already know. Read the statements
carefully, and determine what is being referred to, then write your answers on the blanks provided before
each number.
________________1. This is achieved when ideas are logically and accurately arranged.
____________________2. This refers to when the details of a paragraph are arranged according to the order in
which they happened.
____________________3. It is a set of conventions on how to spell, abbreviate, punctuate and capitalize.
____________________4. This means that the sentences are arranged in a logical manner, making them easily
understood by the reader.
____________________5. To attain this property, one must be consistent with the use of pronouns.

Lesson
ORGANIZATION, COHERENCE AND COHESION

2.1
For a text to be well-written, one must keep in mind these three properties:
Organization - this is the structural framework for writing. It is important to effective writing because it
provides readers with a framework to help them fulfil their expectations for the text. This is the logical
progression and completeness of ideas in a text.
Organization is achieved when ideas are logically and accurately arranged.
Coherence – by coherence we mean that every part of a composition must contribute to one main
unifying thought, which means that the various parts of a text must follow one another in an order which
makes their relationship clear.
Cohesion - means that the overall text has meaning.

Text organization is the way a text is organized that helps to guide the reader logically through it. This property
makes a text readable and its message clear. Organization can be achieved through the following techniques:
Physical format, Signal words, Structure
Physical Format
The format is an aspect of the organization that is immediately apparent to the reader. It is seen in how the
text physically appears like headings and subheadings, bullet points or font emphasis. However, use this
technique with discretion as improper or superfluous formatting can be confusing.
Example:
Marxist ideology has three main theories. Historical materialism purports that all the features of society can
historically be traced back to economic activity. Social class in capitalist societies is what produces unjust
structures of power that exist today. Socialism would be the next rational step for the development of human
society.
Explanation:
The words in bold are the three most important Marxist theories that the first sentence is referring to.
By emphasizing these words, the reader can identify the correct term for the concepts along with their
definitions; this would also aid in remembering the theories since they stick out from the rest of the text.
Signal Words
Signal words are textual cues that readers can use to follow a text. They can “signal” the transition from
one point to another, the ordering of events and concepts, or the writer’s chosen text type (e.g., linear
narration, question and answer).
Example:
Chuck Palahniuk’s novel Fight Club greatly influenced me as a fictional writer. First, his use of the
unreliable narrator fascinated me, and I have written similar characters in my works. Second, the theme of
patriarchal oppression can also be found in the stories I write. Third, the novel’s stunning twist is
something that I have been trying to recreate. Thus, I am extremely grateful to have encountered
Palahniuk’s genius early in my writing career.
Explanation:
By using sequential signal words (first, second and third) before the beginning of every sentence, the
reader can follow what seems to be the writer’s list of three reasons why the novel influenced him. The
word thus also signals the conclusion and the end of the list.
Structure
The structure provides the framework upon which the text is organized. It consists of the following:
Beginning: introduction, thesis statement, hook
Middle: supporting details
End: conclusion, summary, final message
Example:
Ancient philosophies believe that a person has an “aura,” this appears as a rainbow of light around the body
that can be seen by individuals with clairvoyant abilities. The colors change depending on one’s mood, health,
and thoughts. Some scientists believe that the existence of the aura has something to do with the
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electromagnetic fields produced by cells and tissues in the human body. Whether auras are real or not, the fact
remains that there are forces everywhere that are real even though we cannot see them.
Explanation:
Organization in this paragraph is not readily noticeable as it does not use cues like formatting or signal
words. However, the text is organized in this way:
Beginning: Introduce topic of aura
Middle: Definition and evidence of existence of auras  End: Ending message about forces in the world
WHAT I HAVE LEARNED
By adhering to the structure, the writer can produce a text that is still easy to follow. The topic, supporting
details and concluding message is still clear to the reader.
Text organization makes a text easy to read. It prevents the reader from becoming confused by a jumble of
words, sentences, and paragraphs that are in no particular order.
Organization can be achieved through the physical format, signal words, and structure.

Activity 10: Underline the signal words and phrases that the author has used for arranging the details in the
paragraphs.

Northern Mindanao is a region rich in culture, which can be seen in their numerous festivals. One of the
most popular festivals in the region is the Higalaay Festival in Cagayan de Oro City. They celebrate the feast
day of St. Augustine every 28th day of August. Another festival is Kaamulan festival in Bukidnon. It is an ethnic
cultural festival wherein people allocate a relative amount of their time to remember the culture and
traditions of the seven ethnic tribes in their area. It is also considered as a thanksgiving festival to celebrate
their bountiful harvest. Moreover, another famous festival in the region is the Lanzones festival in Camiguin,
which is a 4-day celebration of this fruit. It is held every 3rd week of October. It is essential to note that the
sweetest Lanzones can be found in the islands of Camiguin. Regularly celebrating different causes as one
whole community shows that the citizens of Region 10 value camaraderie and friendship.

Some parts of this region are known to have preserved their tribal beliefs and customs. An example is the
Higaunon, a mountain tribe in Bukidnon. Apparently, they still believe in the existence of spirits and gods.
Furthermore, they have a god for each element. Another superstition is they need to please the spirits so they
will experience something good in return. People in this tribe still live according to their traditions with farming
as their primary source of income. Additionally, the ancestors of its current inhabitants mentioned that the
region was occupied by four tribes but when northern-central Mindanao was divided into provinces, migrants
from Visayas and Luzon began to dominate the region. Since that happened, the tribal communities went to
the mountains and forests to continue living out their cultural heritage.

The region’s culture can also be seen in their establishments and churches. These include: the Immaculate
Conception Parish Church in Misamis Oriental, Macapagal-Macaraeg Heritage House in Lanao Del Norte,
General MacArthur Maker and Saint Augustine Cathedral in Cagayan de Oro. These places represents a
glimpse of Northern Mindanao’s history because the events that occurred in these locations moulded Region
10 to be what it is today. The province of Camiguin is home to century old churches such as the Santo Rosario
Church and Old Catarman Church Ruins. Baylao Church is considered as a miraculous place because a lot of
individuals connect it to how its existence saved numerous lives during the eruption of Mount HibokHibok.
Besides that, there are also a lot of ancestral homes that can be found in this region that date back all the way
to the Spanish era.
http://www.nnc.gov.ph/index.php/regional-offices/region-x-northern-mindanao/54-region-10profile/306-
region-x-profile.html

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 if there is a clear
statement of purpose,
position, facts, examples,
IDEAS are formed
specific details,
and well-developed ORGANIZATION
definitions, explanation,
justifications or opposing
viewpoints

And if there is ORGANIZATION, there is…

Coherence and Cohesion – by coherence we mean that every part of a composition must contribute to one
main unifying thought, which means that the various parts of a text must follow one another in an order which
makes their relationship clear. On the other hand, cohesion means that the overall text has meaning.
A text with coherence has ideas that are logically sequenced in a way that is easy to follow for the reader .
Although without cohesion, no central concept links all these ideas together. The main point of the text
remains unclear for readers.
Example:
My favorite painting is “The Weeping Woman” by Pablo Picasso, which is an intriguing painting that
symbolizes suffering. As a result, I love bright primary colors, so I wear a lot of shocking yellows, blues, and
reds. Also, as an outgoing person, I enjoy performing for large crowds. In the end, people should not judge an
artist’s talent based on one standard.
Explanation:
Connecting words in the text suggest a sequence of ideas that the writer wants to convey. “As a result”,
implies an effect of the previous statement while “in the end” indicates the conclusion. However, the writer
jumps from one topic to another resulting in a lack of cohesion. For instance, the writer talks about his or her
favourite colors “as a result” of Picasso’s painting even though they are not connected in any way. It can be
inferred that the choice of favourite colors was inspired by the colors of the painting, but the writer does not
make this clear.
Cohesion and Coherence
A text with both cohesion and coherence has a central concept linking all the ideas in the text, and these ideas
are presented in a logical manner. The main point is clear, and the text is easy to follow and understand.
Example:
International Women’s Day is celebrated on the 8th of March of every year. It began as a Socialist political
event in several Western countries. Then, other countries also started celebrating the holiday just as a way to
express their love for women. Currently, the United Nations observes the holiday as a way to bring to light
women’s issues around the world.
Explanation:
The main topic of the text is International Women’s Day, which was stated in the first sentence. The paragraph
proceeds to outline the history of the holiday starting from some Western countries and its spread to other
nations. It ends with the current way that the whole world celebrates the day. The writer can present different
ideas about the holiday in a logical manner and without veering away from the topic.

Remember the following when trying to evaluate if your text has cohesion and coherence: A text with
cohesion but no coherence is difficult to follow. A text with coherence but no cohesion has no definite
point. A text with both cohesion and coherence is logically sequenced and stays on topic.

Activity 11: Create a coherent paragraph by arranging the following jumbled sentences. Then write your
arranged paragraph on the space provided. Don’t forget to observe proper mechanics in writing your
paragraph!
1. In these areas, 70 % of the agricultural land suffers from dryness and lack of irrigation.
2. As a result, the crops are usually marginal with hardly enough production to feed the farmer’s family.
3. The first fact to consider is that over 60% of the population lives in rural communities.

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 4. In my country, one of the most urgent problems facing the government today relates to agriculture.
5. And without irrigation, agricultural production is wholly dependent on the uncertain rainfall.
6. To understand the nature of this problem, one has to look at some facts.
7. To solve the problem of overpopulation, he devised a great war, which would sweep like a conflagration
over Greece.
8. This was the Trojan war.
9. Zeus, the ruler of the gods, seemed to have realized that the earth was getting terribly overcrowded.
Activity 12: Read each of the following paragraphs. Underline the sentence that does not belong in the
paragraph, to make it more coherent and cohesive.
1. Oceans and lakes have much in common, but they are also quite different. Both are bodies of water, but
oceans are very large bodies of salt water, while lakes are much smaller bodies of fresh water. Lakes are
usually surrounded by land, while oceans are what surround continents. Both have plants and animals
living in them. The ocean is home to the largest animals on the planet, whereas lakes support much
smaller forms of life. When it is time for a vacation, both will make a great place to visit and enjoy. I
want to swim in the lake.
2. Sunset is the time of day when our sky meets the outer space solar winds. There are blue, pink, and
purple swirls, spinning and twisting, like clouds of balloons caught in a blender. Sunset is the opposite of
sunrise. The sun moves slowly to hide behind the line of horizon, while the moon races to take its place
in prominence atop the night sky. People slow to a crawl, entranced, fully forgetting the deeds that still
must be done. There is a coolness, a calmness, when the sun does set.
3. Here is the perfect system for cleaning your room. First, move all of the items that do not have a proper
place to the center of the room. Get rid of at least five things that you have not used within the last
year. Take out all of the trash, and place all of the dirty dishes in the kitchen sink. Now find a location for
each of the items you had placed in the center of the room, for any remaining items, see if you can
squeeze them in under your bed or stuff them into the back of your closet. 5s is a Japanese cleaning
system. See, that was easy!

Lesson Reading & Thinking Strategies:

2.2 Language Use and Mechanics

 Language Use – refers to the appropriateness of word/vocabulary use.

An effective language is specific, concise, familiar, correct and appropriate.

It is important that you make good choices when it comes to language use because how you use language
affects the tone of the text and the readers’ interpretation of it. Before writing, you have to think about
and consider your target audience.
Determine when it is appropriate to use formal language or when informal language is acceptable.
Informal language is usually used in writing for oneself or in writing to family, friends, and colleagues. On the
other hand, formal language is used in writing academic, business, and official texts.
Examples: We asked the secretary to call the professor and get her permission for us to continue our research.
We requested that the secretary contact the professor and obtain her permission for us to continue our
research.
Explanation:
In the first sentence, the writer used casual words such as asked, call, and get permission, which made the
sentence informal. The second sentence used more serious words such as requested instead of asked, contact
instead of call, and obtain permission instead of get permission. This sentence is formal and is appropriate to
use when talking or writing to a person of authority.
When you write, you should also make sure that the language you use is **direct and simple rather than
complicated so that readers would easily understand the text.** If your readers are the youth, then you
should use words that are familiar to young people.
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Example:
Why Sunglasses Are a Must-Have for Kids (An Excerpt)
(News USA) Most parents know how damaging the effects of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) can be to our skin,
which is why they dutifully slather sunscreen on their kids during the summer. But one thing that often gets
overlooked is protecting their children’s eyes. According to vision-care experts, kids receive three times more
UV exposure than adults annually, yet less than 30 percent of parents currently protect their children’s eyes
with sunglasses. The reason for concern is that children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to the sun’s
rays because their ocular lenses are not mature enough to filter UV light as effectively as adults, causing
damage to the retina.
“Everyone buys into what happens to your skin when it comes to sun damage, but many parents are really
surprised to learn about the cumulative UV damage to the eyes,” Dawn Hartman, an optometrist at Columbus
Ophthalmology Associates in Columbus, Ohio, told the Wall Street Journal in an interview. But the right
sunglasses can help, as parents become more aware that protection from the sun is not just skin deep.
Source:
http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com/health/why-sunglasses-are-a-must-have-forkids/
Explanation:
The entire text uses simple words. This lets readers easily understand the significance of letting kids wear
sunglasses. There were a few technical scientific terms that were necessary to mention in the text, such as
ultraviolet radiation, ocular lenses, and retina. However, the message of the text is still easy to grasp.
You should also be sensitive enough to use unbiased language so that you will not offend any individual or
any particular group of people. Unbiased language is language that is free of racial bias, free of religious bias,
and free of gender bias. Examples:
A teacher should make it a point to motivate her students.
Teachers should make it a point to motivate their students
Explanation:
In the first sentence, the pronoun used is she, but teachers may also be male, so the statement shows gender
bias. The second sentence, on the other hand, makes use of the gender-neutral pronoun their, making it
unbiased.
Proper Language Use
Proper language use allows you to capture the message that you want to convey to your readers . It is all
about choosing the right words that accurately capture your ideas.
However, writers sometimes encounter problems with the following:
Misused Words, Words with Unwanted Connotations, Technical or Highfalutin Words
Misused Words
A writer might sometimes use a word incorrectly, and this occurs when the word does not mean what he or
she thinks it does. So, it is important to be certain of the definition of a word before using it; this often
happens with words that sound or look alike.
Example:
There are many behaviors that past societies considered legal but are now deemed amoral including slavery,
sexism, and racism. Explanation:
The writer confused the word “amoral” with “immoral.” The former means neither moral nor immoral
(without moral quality) while the latter means not moral. Sometimes, it is easy to guess the correct meaning of
a word just by looking at how it is spelled. The prefix a- signals that something is without such as in “anarachy”
(without a government) or “atypical” (without typical features). On the other hand, the prefix im- simply
means not such as in “imperfect” (not perfect) or “impossible” (not possible).
Words with Unwanted Connotations
There are words that take on a meaning specific to a context. Some writers might not be aware of these
connotations, so they end up using language that is unintentionally confusing, comical or even offensive to
readers.
Example: The coast guard salvaged Priscilla and her sister after their fishing boat was damaged in the storm.
Explanation: The word “salvage” means to save usually from the wreckage of a marine vessel. However, the
Philippine media and police often use the term to mean a violent killing, which is opposite from its traditional
English meaning. It comes from the Spanish word “salvaje” that has a meaning similar to “savage.” Thus, if the
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writer produced this text for a Filipino audience, the meaning that he or she intended would be lost. Using the
word “saved” or “rescued” would remedy the issue.
Technical or Highfalutin Words
Writers want to sound smart by using words that are very technical or have deep meanings. Though some
writing genres require the use of such words, writers should still be careful about using them since they make
readers work harder to understand texts.
Example:
There is an ongoing discourse about the anti-disestablishment assemblage and the administrative political
body.
Explanation:
The text is complicated because it is filled with words that are difficult to understand. If the terms are
important to use, then the writer could define what they mean. Otherwise, the sentence could be rewritten
simply this way: There is an ongoing discussion between the opposition and the government. This sentence
still “sounds smart” but it is easier for most people to understand and it does not change the meaning of the
original sentence in any way.
REMEMBER
When you use words improperly, readers are left confused as to what you are trying to say. So, always choose
words according to their correct definition and connotation. Also, keep your language simple enough to make
your text easier for readers to understand.
What is it?

Activity 13: Underline the informal words in the following sentences.

He’s gonna be angry.
I wanna learn how to ski.
Didja like the movie?
We hafta leave now.
I bought ya apples and grapes.

Mechanics - refers to a set of conventions on how to spell, abbreviate, punctuate and capitalize. Mechanics
are conventions that have to be considered in writing. Some of these conventions are spelling, punctuation,
and capitalization. It is important to know and observe these conventions in writing to avoid confusion.
Spelling
When you write, always make sure that you are consistently using one standard with regard to the spelling of
your words. Remember that there are slight differences in American English spelling and British English
spelling.
Punctuation
Punctuation is the act of using a system of symbols such as the comma, period, quotation marks, question
marks, etc. that are used to give structure to and organize a text. The use of punctuation guides the reader
regarding how the text should be read. Examples:
I love to paint portraits I would paint one every day if I had the time  I love to paint portraits. I would paint
one every day if I had the time. This book is dedicated to my parents, Noel and Corazon.
This book is dedicated to my parents, Noel, and Corazon.
Explanation:
The first example does not make use of proper punctuation marks, while the second example presents two
sentences that are correctly punctuated. In the third example, the sentence denotes that the author’s parents
are Noel and Corazon. In the fourth example, the use of the serial comma denotes that the book is dedicated
to four persons: the author’s mom, the author’s dad, Noel, and Corazon. The simple act of adding a comma
completely changed the meaning of the statement.
Capitalization
Capitalization is the act of writing the first letter of a word in uppercase while the rest of the letters are in
lowercase. There are rules in capitalization that one has to remember. Below are a few examples of words that
require capitalization: proper nouns: Alex, Manila; proper adjectives Canadian; days of the week Sunday;
months of the year January; specific course titles Theater 101; kinship names used in place of personal names
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 and are followed by personal names Grandma, Dad, Aunt Paz, Uncle Alvin; adjectives, verbs, adverbs, nouns,
and pronouns in a title and the first and last word in a title Through the Looking-Glass, and What Alice Found
There (literature); historical periods, events, documents Great Depression, the Renaissance, the Constitution
Activity 14: Put a () if the phrases or sentences are following the proper mechanics. If the words or phrases
are incorrect, rewrite them below the give items to make it correct.
_____1. San miguel Corporation
_____2. Joe said, “he is my patient.”
_____3. do you believe me
_____4. Tom Cruise won the oscar award
_____5. Hon. Juan dela Cruz
_____6. girlie is one friend i know inside and out
_____7. i am from the philippines
_____8. Anna can pass for a movie star as a deadringer of anne Hathaway.
_____9. Being the only daughter, sylvia is the apple of the eye of her father.
_____10. please keep an eye on her while I am out.
Activity 15: In not more than 10 sentences, explain what you like or don’t like about Senior High School. You
may write your paragraph on the answer sheet.
What I Have Learned
Organization is the logical progression and completeness of ideas in a text.
By coherence we mean that every part of a composition must contribute to one main unifying thought, which
means that the various parts of a text must follow one another in an order which makes their relationship
clear.
On the other hand, cohesion means that the overall text has meaning.
Language Use refers to the appropriateness of word/vocabulary usage.
Mechanics refers to a set of conventions on how to spell, abbreviate, punctuate and capitalize.

Assessment
After our lesson, let us now check what you have learned. Read the statements carefully, and determine
what is being referred to, then write your answers on the blanks provided before each number.
____________________1. This is the structural framework of writing. ____________________2. This refers to
when the paragraph is arranged in a logical order and the sentences are clearly related to each other.
____________________3. It is a set of rules on how to spell, abbreviate, punctuate and capitalize properly.
____________________4. This means that the text is effective because the reader is able to follow the writer’s
train of thought with ease.
____________________5. This refers to the appropriateness of the words that you are using in your text.

Congratulations!
You have completed your journey in this module. You did a great job! It’s now time to go on to the next
adventure…

Good luck!

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