EAP11_12_Unit 1_Lesson 1_Structure of Academic Texts
Unit Overview
Subject: English for Academic and Professional Purposes
Level: Senior High School
Focus: The Nature of Academic Texts, Structure and Composition
Lesson 1: Structure of Academic Texts
Understanding the key elements and structures that make up academic writing.
Components in Writing: What do building blocks signify in writing?
Learning Objectives
Upon completion, students should be able to:
Identify the structures of paragraphs, essays, and research papers.
Construct short paragraphs and essays.
Academic Texts and Their Parts
Essential Parts of Academic Texts: Why it is vital for a reader to understand these components.
Understanding Paragraph Structures:
Paragraphs are collections of sentences focused on a single topic or idea.
Parts of a Paragraph
Components:
Topic Sentence: Presents the main point.
Supporting Sentences: Provide evidence and reasoning to support the topic.
Concluding/Transitional Sentences: Wrap up the paragraph or transition to the next one.
Patterns of Development
Techniques for organizing paragraphs:
Illustration: Use examples to clarify concepts.
Definition: Explain terms or ideas.
Classification: Group ideas or topics into categories.
Comparison and Contrast: Explore similarities and differences.
Process: Describe steps in a procedure.
Constructing Essays
Three-Part Essay Structure:
Introduction: Sets the stage, provides context, and presents a thesis statement.
Body: Contains evidence supporting the thesis, analyzed and discussed in depth.
Conclusion: Summarizes findings and restates the thesis in a new way without introducing new material.
Components of the Introduction
Functions of the introductory paragraph:
Provide context and background information.
Outline the aim and contents of the essay.
Engage the reader’s interest.
Body of the Essay
Role of the body:
Present evidence and data.
Analyze and discuss findings relating back to the thesis.
Conclusion of the Essay
Importance of the conclusion:
Restate thesis and main points in reworded form.
Do not introduce new material; finalize the discussion.
Structuring the IMRaD Format
IMRaD Sections:
Introduction: Context and aims of the research.
Methods: Explanation of research design, data collection, and analysis.
Results: Objective presentation of data using visuals.
Discussion: Interpretation of results with recommendations.
Importance of Cohesion in Writing
Cohesion ensures that readers can follow the writer’s argument and main ideas seamlessly.
Application of Knowledge
Students will engage in exercises to compose paragraphs and short essays while implementing the techniques outlined throughout the lesson.
Exploration of research relevance and rationalization on selected topics for further inquiry.
Wrap Up
Key Takeaway: Understanding the structure of academic essays—three-part and IMRaD format—enhances both writing and reading comprehension skills.
Bibliography
Resource references utilized for content:**
“The IMRaD Format.” Search Write, December 19, 2017.
“The Structure of Academic Texts.” Lnu.se.
“Traditional Academic Essays in Three Parts.” Penn State Abington.