Reading: Understanding Text Structure, Cohesion & Coherence (Mastery)
C1 Lesson 1: Analyzing Sophisticated Text Structures and Rhetorical Patterns
The Architecture of Argument
At the C1 level, we analyze texts like an architect analyzes a building. We look beyond the surface to understand the underlying structure. Proficient writers don't just present information; they organize it using sophisticated rhetorical patterns1 to make their arguments more logical and persuasive.
Today, we will learn to identify and analyze three advanced patterns common in academic and formal writing: Problem-Solution, Cause and Effect, and Argument-Counterargument.
Part 1: Common Rhetorical Patterns
Recognizing these patterns helps you to anticipate the author's next move and follow their logic.
| Pattern | What it Does | Common Signal Words |
|---|---|---|
| Problem-Solution | Presents a significant problem and then proposes one or more solutions. | The problem/issue is..., A solution is..., One challenge is... |
| Cause and Effect | Explains the reasons for an event (causes) and the results (effects). | Because of, due to, as a result, consequently, therefore. |
| Argument-Counterargument | The author presents their claim, fairly acknowledges the opposing view, and then refutes it. | While some argue..., on the other hand..., however, this view is flawed... |
Part 2: Analyzing a "Problem-Solution" Text
Let's analyze an article that uses this common structure.
Tackling Kampot's Growing Waste Problem
(Defining the Problem) The rapid growth of tourism and population in Kampot has led to a significant and visible challenge: an overburdened waste management system. Public bins frequently overflow, and plastic waste can be seen accumulating in natural areas, including the river and the sea. This not only detracts from the town's natural beauty but also poses a long-term environmental threat.
(Proposing Solution 1) One potential solution is to invest in public infrastructure. This would involve increasing the number of public bins in high-traffic areas and implementing a more frequent and systematic collection schedule, particularly during peak tourist season.
(Proposing Solution 2 & Conclusion) Furthermore, a community-based approach is crucial. Launching public awareness campaigns to encourage recycling and reduce single-use plastic consumption can address the problem at its source. By combining improved infrastructure with community education, Kampot can effectively mitigate this challenge and protect its beautiful environment for future generations.
Analysis: This text is clearly structured using a Problem-Solution pattern. The first paragraph is dedicated to defining the problem. The subsequent paragraphs then present two distinct but complementary solutions, making the author's proposal clear and logical.
Your Turn to Analyze the Structure!
Practice Quiz
Read the short text and identify its primary rhetorical pattern.
1. "Some people argue that building large resorts is essential for economic growth, as they create many jobs. While it is true that these resorts create employment, this view is incomplete. It overlooks the fact that many of these jobs are low-wage and seasonal, offering little long-term stability for local families. A more sustainable approach, therefore, is to support small-scale, locally-owned businesses."
This paragraph is a classic example of which pattern?
- A. Cause and Effect
- B. Argument-Counterargument-Rebuttal
- C. Problem-Solution
Answer: B. The author presents their argument, acknowledges the opposing view ("Some people argue..."), and then refutes it ("While it is true..., this view is incomplete...").
2. "Due to several years of below-average rainfall and higher-than-average temperatures, the region's water table has dropped significantly. As a result, many farmers have experienced reduced crop yields and are facing financial hardship. Consequently, the government has announced a new water conservation program."
This paragraph is primarily structured using which pattern?
- A. Cause and Effect
- B. Problem-Solution
- C. Compare and Contrast
Answer: A. Cause and Effect. The text clearly outlines the causes (low rainfall, high temperatures) and the subsequent effects (lower water table, reduced crop yields, a new program).
Vocabulary Glossary
-
Rhetorical Pattern (noun phrase)
ភាសាខ្មែរ: ទម្រង់វោហាសាស្ត្រ
A specific, conventional method of organizing an argument to be logical and persuasive. ↩ back to text -
Problem-Solution (noun phrase)
ភាសាខ្មែរ: បញ្ហា-ដំណោះស្រាយ
A text structure that identifies and describes a problem, then proposes one or more solutions. ↩ back to text -
Cause and Effect (noun phrase)
ភាសាខ្មែរ: បុព្វហេតុ និង ផល
A text structure that explains the reasons why something happened (causes) and the results (effects). ↩ back to text -
Argument-Counterargument-Rebuttal (noun phrase)
ភាសាខ្មែរ: អំណះអំណាង - ការប្រឆាំងជំទាស់ - ការបដិសេធ
A persuasive structure where an author states their argument, acknowledges the opposing viewpoint (counterargument), and then explains why their own argument is superior (rebuttal). ↩ back to text
Homework Task
Analyze the Architect's Plan!
Find a C1-level opinion or editorial article online from a reputable source (e.g., The Guardian, New York Times, The Economist).
- Read the article carefully to understand the author's main thesis.
- What primary rhetorical pattern does the author use to structure their argument? (Problem-Solution, Cause and Effect, Argument-Counterargument, or another pattern).
- Write down one or two "signal words" or phrases from the text that helped you identify this pattern.