Text: Definition, Structures, Types & Examples
Definition of text
A text is broadly defined as a set of signs (whether oral or written) whose fundamental purpose is to convey a message, a statement, or a coherent set of statements. It serves as an essential tool for communication. Beyond conventional writing, it’s important to note that any object or element that carries meaning can also be considered a text.
Contents
Printed Text
Among the most common forms, printed text is characterized by being a set of codified signs belonging to a specific writing system: letters or graphic representations of a language that, when combined, form a message or meaning. Printed text is essential for learning and reading comprehension, as it constitutes one of the key components that, along with the reader and the context, enable deep and meaningful reading.
Text Structures: The Blueprint of Communication
Text structures are the fundamental framework upon which all texts are built. They provide order, coherence, and meaning to written communication. Mastering these structures is crucial for any type of writing, as they serve as a guide for the reader, significantly facilitating the understanding of the intended message.
Formal Structure
The formal structure of a text is its overarching framework, typically composed of three fundamental pillars:
- Introduction: Its main function is to present the central theme of the text and to contextualize the reader. This section introduces the problem, research question, or thesis that will be developed throughout the writing.
- Body: This is the core of the text, where the arguments, ideas, and data supporting the thesis or central idea are presented. The development should demonstrate a logical progression, moving from general ideas to more specific concepts.
- Conclusion: In this final section, the key points of the text are summarized, reinforcing the central idea and often offering a final reflection or a call to action. The conclusion aims to leave the reader with a clear understanding of the message conveyed.
See also: How to write an introduction
Semantic Structure
The semantic structure of a text is its internal organization that ensures it conveys meaning effectively and flows smoothly for the reader. It comprises two essential elements:
- Coherence: This refers to the text’s internal logic—the way ideas connect and develop progressively. A coherent text presents a clear guiding thread that seamlessly leads the reader through the content.
- Cohesion: This focuses on the linguistic mechanisms that connect ideas and sentences within the text. These mechanisms include the use of pronouns, connectors, lexical references, and appropriate grammatical structures, all of which are related to syntax and vocabulary management. A cohesive text presents a natural flow and significantly aids the comprehension of its message.
In essence, cohesion is about how the parts of a text are linguistically linked together, while coherence is about how the ideas in a text are logically connected to make overall sense to the reader.
Grammatical or Linguistic Structure
The grammatical or linguistic structure focuses on the proper use of language to ensure the clarity and accuracy of the message. It entails mastering the grammatical, syntactic, and lexical aspects of the language being used. Key elements of this structure include:
- Precise Vocabulary: Choosing the right words is crucial for conveying the message clearly and concisely. Writers should avoid ambiguous or vague terms and opt for precise language that aligns with the text’s context.
- Correct Syntax: Syntax refers to the arrangement of words and phrases within sentences. Proper syntax allows for the construction of clear and understandable sentences, preventing confusion or ambiguity.
- Grammatical Rules: Adherence to grammatical rules is essential for crafting a correct and fluent text. This encompasses the proper use of punctuation, verb conjugations, agreement, and other grammatical elements.
Basic Internal Structures of Texts (Rhetorical Patterns)
Texts can employ various internal structures, also known as rhetorical patterns, to effectively convey information. Among the most common basic structures are the fact structure, the problem-solution structure, and the thesis-support structure.
- Fact Structure: This structure serves to present objective and verifiable information without needing to establish a problem or advocate for a particular stance. Examples of texts employing this structure include narration and news reports. Their primary goal is to transmit accurate and unbiased information to the reader.
- Problem and Solution Structure: This structure introduces a problem or question and then proceeds to propose a solution, often backed by compelling arguments. This structure is prevalent in scientific articles, opinion essays, and argumentative texts. The main objective is to persuade the reader of the validity of the proposed solution.
- Thesis-Support Structure: This structure resembles the problem-solution structure, but instead of presenting a problem, it asserts a central idea or position (a thesis) and then substantiates it with solid arguments and evidence. This structure is commonly found in academic and research texts. The main objective is to convince the reader of the veracity of the presented thesis.
Types of Text (Orders of discourse)
Orders of discourse embody the fundamental ways texts are constructed, the manner in which authors express their ideas, and the core elements that form their structure. These orders significantly impact aspects like the reader’s mental representation of the text, how it stimulates their imagination, emotions, or sensations, and how the reader connects with the text.
Each discursive order possesses specific characteristics that writers must adhere to in order to achieve their intended purpose. For instance, if an author aims to tell a story, they will employ narration; if they seek to convince the reader of something, they will utilize argumentation; if their goal is simply to inform, they will use exposition.
It is crucial to recognize that the choice of discursive order is deeply intertwined with the text’s intention. For example, if the objective is to entertain, narration or description can be employed; if the goal is to persuade, argumentation or exposition can be utilized.
Below is a brief explanation of each discursive order:
- Narrative Text: This type of text consists of telling real or imaginary events that occur in a specific place and time.
- Descriptive Text: Descriptive texts depict a real or imaginary world using language. They clearly convey the characteristics of a person, animal, object, or the circumstances of described elements, often engaging senses like sight, smell, touch, and taste.
- Informative Text: This type of text provides precise and clear information about something specific.
- Expository Text: Expository texts present or explain information or knowledge to others using a logical structure and sequence.
- Argumentative Text: Argumentative texts receive this name because the author argues and tries to prove, refute, or justify a proposition. They provide reasons to support ideas and thus convince others.
- Instructional Text: Instructional texts aim to impart knowledge by accurately guiding the reader through ordered steps to achieve a given goal.
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