TEAS Reading: Understanding Text Structure
When preparing for the ATI TEAS Reading section, understanding how a passage is organized can make questions easier to answer. Writers do not arrange information randomly. They often use recognizable structures to explain ideas, describe events, compare subjects, or show relationships between problems and solutions. Learning to identify these structures can help you read more efficiently and locate relevant information faster.
What Is Text Structure?
Text structure refers to the way an author organizes information within a passage. Common structures include:
- Sequence or chronological order
- Cause and effect
- Compare and contrast
- Problem and solution
- Description
The structure often gives you clues about what information is important.
Sequence and Chronological Order
A sequence structure presents events or instructions in a particular order. Look for words such as:
- First
- Next
- Then
- Before
- After
- Finally
For example, a passage explaining how a plant grows might describe planting a seed, germination, development, and flowering in order.
Cause and Effect
Cause-and-effect passages explain why something happens and what happens as a result. Signal words can include:
- Because
- Therefore
- As a result
- Consequently
- Since
When you see these relationships, ask yourself: What caused the event, and what happened afterward?
Compare and Contrast
A compare-and-contrast structure examines similarities and differences. Words such as similarly, however, unlike, both, whereas, and in contrast can provide clues. When reading these passages, keep track of which characteristics belong to each subject.
Problem and Solution
Some passages introduce a problem and then discuss one or more possible solutions. A useful strategy is to identify:
- What is the problem?
- Why is it important?
- What solution is proposed?
- What evidence supports that solution?
How to Practice
Take a short passage and identify its structure before answering questions. Then underline words that helped you make your decision. With practice, recognizing structure becomes faster and can help you understand the author's organization.
Final Takeaway
TEAS Reading is not only about reading quickly. It is also about understanding how information is organized. Learning common text structures can help you identify important relationships and approach questions with greater confidence.
