Grammatical Signals

Grammatical signals are writing devices such as transitional devices, connectors,

determiners, and repetitions that are used to maintain text coherence.

Idea development is essential in writing. This is done by organizing ideas in a

logical and clear manner that suits the writer’s purpose.

Pattern of idea development refers to the structure of writing on how the ideas
are being presented.

Five commonly used patterns of idea development

1. General to Particular
The method of explaining by starting with a broad (big ideas) and following it
with specific (small ideas) in support to the main idea.

These are the other grammatical signals that can be used for general to particular
pattern of idea development:

also, for example, as an example, in addition, in addition to, for instance, examples of
these, first, second, third, next, on one hand, and on the other hand.

Examples:

- I can play quite a few musical instruments, such as the flute, the guitar, and the
piano.

- My father loves eating salty foods. For example, last week he made some
home-made salted eggs.

2. Cause and Effect

This pattern of idea development explains the causes or the effects of something.

These are the other grammatical signals that can be used for cause and effect pattern
of idea development:
Cause: if, for, since, due to, because, owing to, because of, one cause, and resulting
from
Effect: so, thus, hence, then, therefore, as a result, in effect, as consequence,
consequently, leads to, one of the effects is, and that is why
Examples:
-Buffalo nearly disappeared due to overhunting.
-Tornado blew the roof off the house, and as a result, the family had to find another
place to live.

3. Claim and counterclaim

This pattern of idea development refers to the structure of presenting a side of
an issue in an argumentative manner.

Claim- is a statement or declaration of belief, stance, or opinion.

Counter claim- is just opposite of a claim. It is an idea that opposes or is against a
claim.

These are the other grammatical signals that can be used for claim and counter claim
pattern of idea development:

However, but, on the contrary, in contrast, otherwise, nevertheless, on the other hand,
nonetheless

Examples:

Claim Counterclaim
1. Students Students should not
should be be allowed to bring
allowed to mobile phone in
bring mobile class.
phone in
class.
2. Online class I’m sorry but face
is better than to face is better
face to face than online class.
class.
3. Mobile Outdoor and indoor
games are sports are more
exciting to exciting to play
play. than mobile games.

4. Problem-solution
 This pattern of idea development is used when a writer identifies a problem and
addresses it by presenting one or more solutions.

Here are the grammatical signals to be used for problem-solution pattern of idea
development:

because, as a result, in order to, as a solution, one way, to solve this, to address this,
proposed solution

Example:
- Many students have difficulty in answering their modules. To address this,
parents are asked to assist their children in accomplishing the activities.
- The number of students who have no gadgets for their online education is high.
A proposed solution is to give them modules.

5. Persuasion
This pattern of idea development intends to convince the readers to do or
believe in something.

Here are some of the other grammatical signals and expressions of persuasion:

come, free, need, must, must not, necessary, latest, help, best, better, urgent, amazing
experience, avail now, I believe, and I urge.

Example:
A school bazaar is something you don’t want to miss! Aside from the wonderful
experience, attending it is truly a great help. First, a school bazaar is filled with fun
activities. There are amusing games, great rides, and entertaining attractions! Besides
that, your ticket purchase will help the school. Not only that, but it also gives you a
chance to win fabulous prizes. So, what are you waiting for? Join now and experience
the fun!