Chapter 6: The List Pattern
Pattern #1: The List Pattern
Sometimes the ideas in the paragraph are related because they are a list of items. The items or ideas will be listed in whatever sequence the author prefers. This means the order of the ideas could be rearranged without changing the ideas the paragraph is communicating.
The list pattern will use words that indicate a list as transitions. These words will tell us that ideas in sentences are related to each other because they are simply being added together.
Transition Words as Signals
To identify the list pattern, look for transition words as signals. These words can be used to signal how the ideas are related to each other. When you encounter words like these, they are usually connecting two ideas together, indicating that they are related. This isn’t an exhaustive list, but shows some of the words that can be used in this type of pattern.
| Transition words that may signal a list | |||
| To begin with | Also | Last of all | In addition |
| Additionally | First (or Firstly) | Furthermore | Second (or Secondly) |
| Moreover | Third (or Thirdly) | Other | Another |
Examples of the List Pattern
Below are examples of the list pattern. Can you spot the transitions and identify the pattern?
Notice how the details are introduced with transition words and form a pattern of listed ideas. These ideas could be presented in any order, but this is the order that the author decided to present them. This means they are not fixed in any order.
Working on a yacht can be an attractive career for many reasons. First, the travel is unbeatable—you could be exploring secluded islands in the Caribbean one week and bustling ports in the Mediterranean the next. Second, the work can be a great way to develop new skills, from mastering nautical knots to learning about fine wines. Third, the potential income is substantial, with opportunities for generous tips on top of your base salary. Finally, the close-knit crew environment can foster deep friendships and a strong sense of camaraderie.
Practice 6.1
Renaissance music, created from about 1400 to 1600, brought many important changes. First, polyphony, or music with several melodies at the same time, became more detailed. Second, the invention of music printing made it easier to share music across Europe. Also, secular music, or songs not for church, became more popular, with styles like the madrigal and chanson enjoyed in homes and courts. In addition, new instruments like the viola da gamba added new sounds to music. Finally, composers focused more on expressing human emotions, matching the Renaissance’s focus on art and creativity. These changes helped make music a bigger part of everyday life during this time.
In the paragraph, the author uses several words as clues or signals that the paragraph is a list of ideas. Here are the transition words that act as signals:
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First
-
Second
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Also
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In addition
-
Finally
Can you tell what this paragraph is listing? The clue is in the first sentence. These are a list of changes that occurred during the Renaissance era in music.
Practice 6.2
Trying new hobbies can be a fun way to learn and grow. First, creative hobbies like painting, drawing, or crafting let you express yourself and make something unique. Second, active hobbies like hiking, dancing, or playing a sport are great for staying healthy while having fun. Also, learning-based hobbies such as reading, cooking, or gardening can teach new skills and expand your knowledge. In addition, social hobbies like board games, book clubs, or group fitness classes help you meet new people and build friendships. Finally, relaxing hobbies like yoga, journaling, or photography can reduce stress and bring a sense of calm. Whatever you choose, hobbies are a great way to enjoy your free time and discover new interests.
Practice 6.3
If you’re new to anime, there are many great shows to start with that fit different interests. First, My Hero Academia is perfect for fans of superheroes, with action-packed episodes and inspiring characters learning to use their powers. Furthermore, Demon Slayer offers stunning animation and an emotional story about family and perseverance. Additionally, for something light and funny, One Punch Man parodies superhero tropes with over-the-top humor and epic fights. Attack on Titan is also great if you enjoy thrilling, intense plots with twists and mystery. Finally, if you prefer something heartwarming, Spirited Away (a movie by Studio Ghibli) introduces you to anime’s magical and artistic storytelling. These shows offer a variety of styles and themes, making them excellent choices for newcomers to anime.
Attributions
Strengthening Reading and Comprehension by Audrey Cross and Katherine Sorenson is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International
Media Attributions
(trăn-zĭsh-ən), n.
Words, phrases, or processes that connect ideas or stages smoothly; The process or period of changing from one state or condition to another.
(ĭg-zôs′tĭv), adj.
Thorough and complete; considering all possibilities or elements.
