Identify the structure of the passage.

Appeared in: DSSSB 12 August 2024

Explanation

An explanatory text aims to inform, describe, or clarify a topic for the reader.
Its primary purpose is to present factual information, characteristics, and definitions to enhance understanding.
This structure is objective and does not attempt to persuade the reader or tell a personal story.
Keywords often associated with explanatory texts include 'for example,' 'for instance,' 'in addition,' and 'because,' which signal that details or reasons are being provided.

Option B: A sequential structure organizes information chronologically or in a step-by-step order. Its purpose is to outline a process or a series of events, not to explain a concept in detail.
Option C: An argumentative structure's goal is to persuade the reader to accept a specific viewpoint or claim. It uses evidence, logic, and reasoning to build a case.
Option D: A narrative structure tells a story, complete with characters, a setting, a plot, and a sequence of events. It focuses on personal experiences or fictional accounts.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identifying different types of text structures in writing as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must quickly and accurately comprehend various text types in their daily practice: patient histories (narrative), care protocols (sequential), research articles (explanatory/argumentative), and patient education materials (explanatory).
Correctly identifying the text structure is crucial for patient safety. For example, misinterpreting a sequential protocol as a general explanatory text could lead to missing critical steps in a procedure.
What if? If a research article shifts from an explanatory background section to an argumentative conclusion advocating for a new practice, the nurse must distinguish the factual information from the author's persuasive claims to evaluate the evidence critically.

How to Approach the Question

First, read the entire passage to grasp the author's main purpose or overall message.
Ask yourself: Is the author primarily trying to inform, persuade, tell a story, or provide instructions?
Look for specific keywords and transition words. 'First, next, then' suggest a sequence. 'For example, because' suggest an explanation. 'Therefore, I believe' suggest an argument.
Analyze the overall organization. Is it built around a central topic with supporting details (Explanatory)? A timeline (Sequential)? A claim with evidence (Argumentative)? A plot with characters (Narrative)?
Based on the author's purpose and the text's organization, select the option that best describes its structure.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QTwGxrrhzijQw_GcSX8v_i

E6 NursingResearch Suresh Sharma 5e Part 2 p. 249-251

Practise the full DSSSB 12 August 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.