Problem Solution
A more specific type of expository text is structured as problem-solution. For these types of selections, there will be two parts to the passage: a problem and a solution. The problem section explains the causes for concern and the solution section explains a way to solve the problem. Looking for a specific detail, try to figure out if it relates to the problem portion or the solution. That will help narrow down where the detail will be.
One of the best ways to handle this type of passage is to use the Cornell note taking system. For this method, make two columns to take notes in as you read the selection. The left column should be narrower. In that column, insert questions centered on the topic. For example, if the selection centered on the medical dangers of poverty, one question could be 'what are the effects of poverty on a hospital?' Then, in the right-hand column, answer that question with details from the reading selection. This organizational format makes it very easy to use your notes to find a specific detail. Simply see which question it relates to and check your notes or return to the reading selection at that spot.
Compare And Contrast
The last type of writing can be formatted as compare and contrast. In this case, the passage focuses on two or more related issues and describes the similarities and differences between them. This type of selection could read like a debate, each section arguing a case for one side of the issue.
Graphic organizers are a great tool to use to be able to find specific details in selections formatted on compare and contrast. Graphic organizers are any type of visual organization for information. For example, a Venn diagram is a tried and true compare and contrast graphic organizer. Two overlapping circles represent two different ideas, with the similarities written in the overlapping section and the differences in the other part of the circle. Other graphic organizers, like tables, charts, flow charts and webs, can all be used to show the details of the similarities and differences of any topics. Once you have a graphic organizer, refer to the section needed when looking for specific details. The clearer you organize your visual, the easier it will be to find the specific details you need.
Concept Maps
Besides the methods already described in this lesson, there are many more strategies for finding specific details. One method that can be used for nearly any type of writing is a concept map. A concept map is a means of showing key concepts and their relationships in graphic form. This probably sounds very similar to a graphic organizer, and in fact, a concept map can be considered a type of graphic organizer. However, concept maps are much more complex.
Think of a concept map like any other type of web. However, with a concept map don't only use the information in the selection, but also prior knowledge. The goal is to show how new information relates to prior knowledge and how a student is constructing his or her own knowledge. Students can show hierarchy to emphasize importance of information, draw lines and arrows to link information, or even use descriptive linking words to show how details are related. Concept maps can even be changed or rearranged as needed. Concept maps are great because they not only hold the specific details you might need later on, but they show the relationships between all those details, which is much better for comprehension and for locating other details.