Mastering Textual Sequences

Chapter Title

Systematization

In this chapter, you will learn about the different textual sequences: narrative, descriptive, argumentative, expository, and instructional. You will understand how these structures organize information in a text according to the author's objective and how to identify and apply each of them in practical situations. Additionally, we will see how these skills are valued in the job market and in various professional fields.

Objectives

Understand that textual sequences are structures that organize information in a text according to the author's objective. Identify and differentiate the five textual sequences: narrative, descriptive, argumentative, expository, and instructional. Develop critical text analysis skills. Prepare students for the practical application of knowledge in real market situations.

Introduction

Textual sequences are fundamental for constructing clear, coherent, and effective texts. They organize information in a way that allows the reader to easily comprehend the author's message. There are five main types of textual sequences: narrative, descriptive, argumentative, expository, and instructional. Each of them has specific characteristics and is used according to the text's objective. For example, a narrative sequence tells a story, while a descriptive sequence details the characteristics of an object, person, or setting.

In the job market context, the ability to identify and correctly use textual sequences is a highly valued skill. Marketing professionals, for example, use argumentative texts to persuade the audience to buy products or services. In fields like technology and engineering, well-crafted instructional manuals are essential to ensure that users understand how to use new devices or software. In journalism, narrative is used to tell engaging stories that capture the reader's attention.

Understanding and applying textual sequences is also crucial for academic success. The ability to write structured and coherent texts is essential for producing academic papers, essays, and presentations. Furthermore, critical text analysis allows students to develop critical and reflective thinking, essential for problem-solving and making informed decisions. Throughout this chapter, we will explore each type of textual sequence in detail, its characteristics, and practical applications, preparing you to use these skills in various everyday contexts and the job market.

Exploring the Theme

In this chapter, we will address textual sequences in detail, exploring their characteristics and practical applications. Textual sequences are essential for organizing information in a text, facilitating reader comprehension. There are five main types of textual sequences: narrative, descriptive, argumentative, expository, and instructional. Each of these sequences has specific characteristics and is used according to the author's objective.

The narrative sequence is used to tell stories or report events. It is characterized by a structure that includes characters, plot, time, and space. The descriptive sequence, on the other hand, is used to detail the characteristics of an object, person, or setting, providing a clear mental image for the reader.

The argumentative sequence is used to present arguments with the aim of convincing the reader of a certain point of view. It is common in persuasive texts, such as opinion articles and advertising campaigns. The expository sequence is used to explain or inform about a given subject clearly and objectively, being common in academic and informative texts.

Finally, the instructional sequence is used to provide instructions or a step-by-step guide on how to perform a task. This type of sequence is often found in instruction manuals and recipes. Understanding and knowing how to apply these textual sequences is essential for producing effective and coherent texts, both in the academic context and in the job market.

Theoretical Foundations

Textual sequences are structures that organize information in a text according to the author's objective. They are fundamental to ensure the clarity and coherence of the text, facilitating reader comprehension. Each type of textual sequence has specific characteristics that meet different communicative purposes.

The narrative sequence is characterized by the presence of characters, plot, time, and space. It is used to tell stories or report events, following a structure that includes an introduction, development, and conclusion. The descriptive sequence, in turn, is used to detail the characteristics of an object, person, or setting, using adjectives and sensory descriptions to create a clear mental image for the reader.

The argumentative sequence is used to present arguments with the aim of convincing the reader of a certain point of view. It is characterized by the presence of a thesis, supporting arguments, and a conclusion. The expository sequence is used to explain or inform about a given subject clearly and objectively, being common in academic and informative texts.

The instructional sequence is used to provide instructions or a step-by-step guide on how to perform a task. It is characterized by clear and direct language, often using imperative verbs to guide the reader. This type of sequence is often found in instruction manuals and recipes.

Definitions and Concepts

Narrative: A textual sequence used to tell stories or report events. It is characterized by the presence of characters, plot, time, and space.

Descriptive: A textual sequence used to detail the characteristics of an object, person, or setting. It uses adjectives and sensory descriptions to create a clear mental image for the reader.

Argumentative: A textual sequence used to present arguments aimed at convincing the reader of a certain point of view. It is characterized by the presence of a thesis, supporting arguments, and a conclusion.

Expository: A textual sequence used to explain or inform about a given subject clearly and objectively. Common in academic and informative texts.

Instructional: A textual sequence used to provide instructions or a step-by-step guide on how to perform a task. It is characterized by clear and direct language, often using imperative verbs.

Practical Applications

In the job market, the ability to identify and correctly use textual sequences is a highly valued skill. For example, marketing professionals use argumentative texts to persuade the audience to buy products or services. In fields like technology and engineering, well-crafted instructional manuals are essential to ensure that users understand how to use new devices or software.

In journalism, narrative is used to tell engaging stories that capture the reader's attention. Descriptive texts are common in literary works and reports that require detailing scenarios or characters. The expository sequence is widely used in academic texts, reports, and scientific articles, where clarity and objectivity are fundamental.

Tools like word processors (Microsoft Word, Google Docs), text formatting software (LaTeX), and collaborative writing applications (Trello, Slack) can assist in producing organized and coherent texts. Additionally, using checklists and style guides can help ensure that all textual sequences are applied correctly.

Assessment Exercises

Identify the predominant textual sequence in the following excerpt: 'The forest was dense, with tall trees and leaves forming a green canopy above our heads. The sound of birds and the scent of damp earth created a magical atmosphere.' Justify your answer.

Write a paragraph using the argumentative textual sequence on the theme 'The Importance of Recycling.'

Explain the difference between the narrative and expository textual sequences, providing an example of each.

Conclusion

We conclude that textual sequences are fundamental for constructing clear, coherent, and effective texts. Throughout this chapter, we explored the characteristics and practical applications of the narrative, descriptive, argumentative, expository, and instructional sequences. You learned to identify and use each of these textual structures, preparing you to apply them in various situations, both academic and professional.

To move forward, we suggest that you practice analyzing and producing texts using the different textual sequences. This will strengthen your ability to create well-structured and persuasive texts. Additionally, prepare for the expository class by reviewing the concepts presented and reflecting on how each textual sequence can be applied in different contexts of your daily life and the job market. The expository lesson will be an opportunity to deepen your understanding and clarify any doubts about the topic.

Going Beyond- How can the choice of textual sequence influence the reader's perception of a text's content?

• Give examples of professional situations in which the correct use of textual sequences can be decisive for successful communication.

• Compare and contrast the narrative and descriptive textual sequences, highlighting their main differences and similarities.

• Explain how the argumentative sequence can be used to persuade a target audience in an advertising campaign.

• Describe a scenario in which the instructional sequence would be essential and explain why clarity and objectivity are crucial in this type of text.

Summary- Textual sequences organize information in a text according to the author's objective.

• There are five main textual sequences: narrative, descriptive, argumentative, expository, and instructional.

• Each textual sequence has specific characteristics that meet different communicative purposes.

• The ability to identify and correctly use textual sequences is valued in the job market and is essential for academic success.