6) Identifying the Purpose of Texts

A. 1. Discuss – show you have a good understanding of the topic, but not necessarily
take a position
2. Describe – present different viewpoints of the topic and you may need to make
your stand
3. Defend – it asks you to adopt a strong position and you need to provide evidence

B. 1.Discuss – must present both sides and may state which position they support
2. Defend – must agree/disagree and argue in defence of their position
3. Describe – describe only and unnecessary for students to take a position
4. Defend - must agree/disagree and argue in defence of their position
5. Discuss - must present both sides and may state which position they support
6. Describe - describe only and unnecessary for students to take a position

C. Label each main idea to the paragraphs they correspond to.

Using educational learning apps 5

Supplementing lessons with digital materials 7
Distractions and interruptions 10
Cyberbullying 11
Disconnection from face-to-face activities 13
Incorporating digital platforms into lessons 6
Providing easy access to more information 8
Cheating 12

D. Which type is the passage above: describe, discuss or defend? Describe. There is no
particular position that the author adopts.

7) Identifying the sequence of ideas

1 A statement of the writer’s position on the topic? Introduction

2 A summary of the main arguments in support of the writer’s Conclusion

position?

3 A series of generalisations relevant to the topic? Body

4 An outline of how the essay is organised? Introduction

5 Definitions of the key terms used in the essay? Introduction

6 Evidence to support each generalisation? Body

7 A restatement of the writer’s position on the topic? Conclusion

8 Background information on the topic? Introduction

B. Which sentences in the introduction are:

a. The background? 1, 2,
b. A recognition of different views? 3, 4
c. A statement of the writer’s position? 5

C. The following extracts (a-c) all make the same claim. In which extract does the writer:
1. b 2. c 3. a

D. Skim the text and decide which sentence best summarises the main idea. B

E. Read the text and put the main ideas in the sequence that they appear.

a We can use economics to compare the costs and benefits of the 3

projects.
b All global welfare projects should be worked on at the same time. 5
c Both developed and developing countries still have problems. 2
d International agencies are not motivated enough to compare the 6
effectiveness of their work.
e The quality of life for most people has been improving. 1
f People understand that governments have to prioritise national 4
spending.
g We need to face the problem of how to prioritise problems. 7

F. One function of the first paragraph of this passage is to provide background

information on the topic.
G. The last paragraph is mainly to summarise the passage and urge the readers to make
a stand.

H. What is the purpose of this passage? To discuss.

I What is the author’s intention? To urge readers to consider which issue needs to
be prioritised.

J. What is the author’s attitude? Concerned.