Analyzing Textual Structures and Rhetorical Features

Macrostructure and Microstructure in Writing

Macrostructure

• Theme: The topic of the paper, typically introduced at the beginning.
• Rheme: Found in the middle, providing a summary of each section of the paper.
• Thesis Statement: Located at the end, summarizing the main results.

Microstructure

Lexicon

• Vocabulary and Terminology: Use of formal or informal language (e.g., "provides," "expand"). Adjectives may be used logically or psychologically.
• Semantic Fields: Vocabulary specifically related to rhetoric.
• Formality: The text may also include terms that are less formal.
• Tenses: The use of the verb "to be" in topic sentences and thesis statements indicates that the statements can be regarded as universal truths. The combination of a formal register with more accessible language suggests an informative text.

Syntax

• Complex Syntax: Includes coordination (introduced by "and") and subordination (introduced by "despite" or "although").
• Transitional Linkers: Used for exemplification, comparison, or sequence (e.g., "for example," "similarity," "finally").

Textual Strategies and Argumentation

These strategies are used for the development of arguments, mainly for the elaboration and extension of the main idea:

• Justification: For example, providing evidence.
• Contrast: Using terms like "although" or "despite."
• Definition: Clarifying specific terms.
• Enumeration: Restatement, conclusion, or observation (listing items).
• Adverbs: Expressing manner, cause, or effect (e.g., "logically," "psychologically").

Rhetorical Features and Paralinguistic Elements

• Rhetorical Features: Includes repetitions, metaphors, synesthesia, anaphora, and cataphora. If no rhetorical features are present, the style of the text is considered direct and objective.
• Paralinguistic Elements: Visual cues such as bold or italics.

Principles of Textuality

• Coherence: The paragraph is coherent because the entire text deals with the same topic, maintaining a semantic connection between sentences.
• Cohesion: The paragraph is cohesive because the ideas are well-connected and related to one another. Linking words such as "first," "second," "next," and "then" establish a clear order and improve perception.
• Progressivity: The text is progressive because it continuously offers new information presented logically.
• Flow: Refers to how easily the reader can understand the text.

Genre and Paragraph Typology

• Communicative Purpose: The text serves a communicative function. For example, a process paragraph provides instructions for carrying out a survey.
• Paragraph Typology: Includes exemplification, definition, comparison, contrast, and process.

Note: If any of the above elements are missing from a text, state: "There are no elements of this kind in the text."