Understanding Text Structure and Rhetorical Devices

Macrostructure

Theme: This is the topic sentence that summarizes the main idea. Usually at the beginning.

Rheme: Arguments that support the theme. In the middle.

Thesis Statement: Restatement of the initial idea. Normally at the end.

Microstructure

Lexicon

• Formal or informal language (e.g., Provides, expand).
• Attributive adjectives such as “logically and psychologically satisfying conclusion”.
• Semantic fields (Campos semánticos).
• Elements that are not formal (Common words like 'too' instead of 'moreover'; 'quite' similar). The combination of formal register with more accessible language suggests that this is an informative text.
• Main statements (topic sentences and thesis statements) use the copulative verb 'to be' which indicates that the statement can be regarded as general or universal truths.
• Type of verbs: Present perfect, present continuous, present simple.

Syntax

• Complex syntax.
• Mostly coordinate sentences introduced by 'and' and juxtaposed ones.
• Two subordinate sentences introduced by 'despite' and 'although'.
• Transitional linkers: for example, similarity, finally (Exemplification, comparison, and sequence).
• Connectors.

Textual Strategies / Argumentation

Strategies used for the development of arguments: mainly used for the elaboration and extension of the main idea.

• Justification: For example, justification of an initial assertion through three arguments.
• Contrast: (Although, despite: contrast paragraph). Text beginning with a connector to call the attention of the reader.
• Definition: Definitions in the text.
• Enumeration: Restatement/conclusion/observation (Enumeration of things together).
• Adverbs: (manner, cause, effect) – logically and psychologically.

Rhetorical Features

• Repetitions, metaphor, cataphora, etc.

If there are no rhetorical features, the style of the paragraph is very direct and objective/informative.

Textuality

Coherence

(If the ideas are well developed). Makes the discourse semantically meaningful.

Cohesion

(If the ideas are well linked). Use of synonyms.

Progressivity

Questions whether or not the text leads somewhere. It proposes a topic/problem/question, develops it, and provides a solution/answer to it, allowing the reader to acknowledge a learning process. FLOW: Refers to how 'easy' it is for the reader/listener to understand what is being said.

Genre

Determine the typology of this text as a comparative one. Use of contrastive and comparative linkers. (Can be Informative, scientific, argumentative, comparative, literary, expository, descriptive).

Body of a Letter

Main goal/Objective: First part.

Details and description: What you want to do, what you have done, your skills… Education + work // and personalities and skills.

Establishing contact: “I enclose my CV…” final part.