Which organizational patterns are common in informational texts?

• A. Cause/effect, problem/solution, sequence/chronology, compare/contrast, description
• B. Narrative arc, cliffhanger, first-person perspective, unreliable narrator
• C. Lyrics, stanzaic form, refrain, meter
• D. Random order

Answer: (A)

Informational texts are typically organized to present information clearly, using patterns such as cause/effect, problem/solution, sequence/chronology, compare/contrast, and description. These patterns help readers understand relationships, steps, and features: cause/effect shows why something happens; problem/solution identifies an issue and offers remedies; sequence/chronology orders events or steps in time; compare/contrast highlights similarities and differences; description provides details that paint a topic for the reader. This kind of structure supports explainers, arguments, and factual reporting by making information logical and easy to follow. The other options point to storytelling or poetry rather than informational organization—narrative arc and unreliable narrator belong to fiction, lyrics and meter are elements of poetry, and random order would disrupt understanding.