Module 1: Using Appropriate Grammatical Signals

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

determiners and repetitions that are used to maintain text coherence.

Grammatical signals are words or expressions that indicate the relationship between ideas
forming patterns of idea development. Patterns of idea development help writers to logically
organize ideas about a topic. They maintain coherence in a text or paragraph. Grammatical
Signals According to the Pattern of Idea Development:

A. General to Particular: Starts with a broad idea and explains this by giving specific
examples to illustrate the main idea.
Examples: as an example, in addition to, for example, for instance, to illustrate,
specifically, namely, in short, after all, etc.

B. Claim and Counterclaim: The claim is the main argument of the text while the opposing
viewpoint is the counterclaim. The claim is often presented with supporting details and
evidence, whereas, counterclaim qualifies points and rebuts counterarguments.
Examples: claim, assert, state, argue, false, in fact, in reality, agreed, disputed,
consensus, etc.

C. Cause and Effect: The cause explains the reasons why something happened. The
effects show the results or consequences. The causes and effects should be organized
by the order of importance and time.
Examples: affects, so, thus, hence, consequently, because of, if…then, when, as a
result, is caused by, due to, for this reason, in order to, etc.

D. Problem and Solution: Presents and describes a problem, then, a solution is

suggested through an analysis of the causes.
Examples: a solution is, the problem is, one answer is, a reason for the problem, the
remedy is, the prevention is, the issue is, caused by, this lead to, proposed solutions, to
solve this, etc.
Module 2: Synthesizing Important Information from Various Sources
Every day we see and use different kinds of information. Information can come from various
sources. Sources of information can be printed or digital. Let’s look at some examples:
● Printed: Textbooks, Modules, Newspapers, Magazines, Posters
● Digital: YouTube Videos, Internet Articles, Websites, Social Media Posts/Pages,
Infographics, Online News

Synthesizing information from various sources involves the process of gathering

information from multiple texts, articles, or other resources and integrating them into a cohesive
and comprehensive understanding. Here are some steps to help you synthesize important
information effectively:
1. Identify the main ideas: Read through each source and identify the main ideas,
concepts, or arguments presented. Look for recurring themes or key points that appear
across multiple sources.
2. Note similarities and differences: Compare the information from different sources and
note any similarities or differences in their perspectives, findings, or interpretations. This
step helps you identify areas of consensus or disagreement among the sources.
3. 3. Look for supporting evidence: Examine the evidence or examples provided in each
source to support their claims or arguments. Identify any recurring evidence or patterns
that strengthen or challenge the main ideas.
4. Analyze the sources critically: Evaluate the credibility, reliability, and bias of each source.
Consider the author's credentials, the publication's reputation, and the evidence
provided. Be mindful of any potential biases that may influence the information
presented.
5. Identify overarching themes: Based on your analysis, identify overarching themes or
concepts that emerge from the information. These themes should capture the key ideas
that are supported by multiple sources.
6. Organize your synthesis: Create an outline or framework to organize your synthesis.
Group related information together under each theme or concept. This helps you
structure your synthesis in a logical and coherent manner.
7. Provide context and connections: When synthesizing information, it's important to
provide context and make connections between different sources. Explain how the ideas
from one source relate to or build upon the ideas from another source. This helps create
a cohesive narrative and demonstrates your understanding of the topic.
8. Add your own analysis and insights: As you synthesize the information, incorporate your
own analysis and insights. Offer your interpretation of the information, highlight any gaps
or unanswered questions, and propose potential implications or future directions.
9. Use appropriate referencing: Ensure that you appropriately cite and reference the
original sources used in your synthesis. This is crucial for giving credit to the authors and
maintaining academic integrity.
10. Review and revise: Finally, review your synthesis for clarity, coherence, and accuracy.
Make any necessary revisions to enhance the flow of ideas and ensure that your
synthesis accurately reflects the information from the various sources.
Module 3: Developing Paragraphs that Illustrate Text Type

A paragraph is composed of two or more sentences focusing on a single topic or main idea. A
well-written paragraph has:
A. Topic Sentence – this is usually found at the beginning of the paragraph where the main
idea is presented.
B. Supporting Sentences – these are strong and vivid details that support the topic
sentence.
C. Conclusion – this is the final point where the writer sums up the ideas presented in the
paragraph.
D. Transitional Words or Signals – these are logical connectors (e.g. Next, For example,
Finally, etc.) that maintain text coherence and unity.

Different Text Types:

1. Narrative: The writer tells a story. It is a series of related events or experiences. It can
be fiction or non-fiction.
Elements of a Narrative Text:
A. Setting – time, place, environment, and culture
B. Character – the people and animated objects
C. Mood – the use of words that create atmosphere
D. Theme – the central idea of the story
2. Expository: Explains a topic using facts, statistics, and examples. It is not based on
feelings.
3. Explanatory: Explains a process or how something works and why it happens
4. Factual Recount: A true event retold by someone who is not personally involved in the
situation
5. Personal Recount: A special moment personally experienced by the writer
6. Persuasive: The writer convinces the readers to accept his/her viewpoint or
recommendation. All sides of the argument should be clearly presented.
Module 4: Using Primary and Secondary Sources in Expanding an Outline

Type of Source Primary Secondary

Definition It provides an authentic, first-hand It involves analysis, synthesis,

recount of an event or period and is interpretation, or evaluation of
authoritative ; it is contemporary to primary sources and is generally
the events and individuals being one or more steps removed from
researched. the event or period.

Examples ● Artifacts of all kinds, such as ● Articles from magazines,

tools, coins, clothing, journals, and newspapers
furniture, etc. after the event
● Audio recordings, DVDs, ● Bibliographies
and video recordings ● Biographical works
● Autobiographies and ● Commentaries and treatises
memoirs ● History books and other
● Books, magazine and popular or scholarly books
newspaper articles and ads ● Indexes and abstracts
published at the time ● Literature reviews and
● Diaries, personal letters, review articles
and correspondence ● Reference books, including
● Government documents dictionaries, encyclopedias,
● Internet communications on and atlases
email, blogs, listservs, and ● Textbooks
newsgroups ● Works of criticism and
● Interviews, surveys, and interpretation
fieldwork
● Official and unofficial
records of organizations and
government agencies
● Original documents (birth
certificates, property deeds,
trial transcripts)
● Patents
● Photographs, drawings, and
posters
● Public opinion polls
● Speeches and oral histories
● Research data, such as
census statistics
● Scientific journal articles
reporting experimental
research results
● Technical reports
● Works of art and literature

Exceptions: There are reference books which were considered secondary sources during the
time they were written but are currently considered as primary sources by historians.