Reading: Understanding Text Structure
C1 Lesson 1: Analyzing Rhetorical Patterns
Before You Read 🧠
Key Vocabulary
These terms are essential for analyzing the architecture of an argument.
Common Rhetorical Patterns
Recognizing these patterns helps you to anticipate an author's next move and follow their logic more easily.
Presents a significant problem and then proposes one or more solutions.
Signal Words: The issue is..., a solution could be..., one challenge is...
Explains the reasons for an event (causes) and the results (effects).
Signal Words: because of, due to, as a result, consequently, therefore.
The author presents their claim, fairly acknowledges the opposing view, and then refutes it.
Signal Words: while some argue..., on the other hand..., however, this view is flawed...
Analysis of a "Problem-Solution" Text
(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.
Practice Your Analytical Skills 🎯
Quiz: Identify the Pattern
1. Read the short text and identify its primary rhetorical pattern:
"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. A more sustainable approach, therefore, is to support small-scale, locally-owned businesses."
- A. Cause and Effect
- B. Argument-Counterargument-Rebuttal
- C. Problem-Solution
→ Answer: B. The author presents an argument, acknowledges the opposing view ("Some people argue..."), and then refutes it ("this view is incomplete...").
2. Identify the primary pattern in this text:
"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. Consequently, the government has announced a new water conservation program."
- A. Cause and Effect
- B. Problem-Solution
- C. Compare and Contrast
→ Answer: A. The text outlines the causes (low rainfall, high temperatures) and the subsequent effects (lower water table, reduced yields).
Key Vocabulary Reference
- Rhetorical Pattern A specific method of organizing an argument to be logical and persuasive.
- Problem-Solution A text structure that identifies a problem, then proposes solutions.
- Cause and Effect A text structure that explains reasons (causes) and results (effects).
- Argument-Counterargument A persuasive structure stating a claim, acknowledging the opposite view, and then proving the claim is superior.
Your Reading Mission ⭐
Analyze an Article!
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 point.
- What primary rhetorical pattern does the author use to structure their argument?
- Write down one or two "signal words" or phrases from the text that helped you identify this pattern.