Text prototypes are the idea or concept of each type of text that a speaker has . When a text is spoken, it responds to a series of characteristics and features that make it similar to another: that is a text prototype.
Textual prototypes coincide with discursive genres . There are five: argumentation, exposition, description, dialogue , and narration .
Communicative intention is fundamental. If, for example, a speaker wishes to argue, they do so by responding to a series of preconceived elements: to a prior idea about how to argue. They have a prototype in mind, a standard with characteristics similar to another speaker’s idea of argumentation.
The speaker distinguishes which elements are needed and which are necessary when creating a text. It starts from a series of concepts and ideas that are organized. It is, therefore, a cognitive process.
The speaker has a communicative intention or purpose. This intention can be of a different nature (to argue, to present, etc.). Hence, we speak of different types or genres of textual prototypes . Each of them has characteristics that make them recognizable.
Argumentation
Argumentation consists of defending an idea or refuting an opposing idea. Its main characteristics are:
- Intention to convince the recipient of the text
- Using evidence and data to support the argument
- Ordered structure to facilitate the use of arguments
Example of argument:
The economic data presented in the latest program is questionable. First, there is barely any mention of the increase in exports. Second, the unemployment rate is based on outdated data, as the source cited is from two years ago. Therefore, we cannot consider such data a realistic view, but rather biased and far from reality.
You can also see Argumentation and Structure of the Argumentative Text .
Exposure
In an exposition, the speaker attempts to convey a topic . Its main characteristics include:
- Usual three-part structure (introduction, development, and conclusion)
- Use of connectors to unite the speech
- Explanatory character, since the listener is intended to understand what is being said
Example of exposure:
Romanesque sculptures may seem crude or rudimentary when compared to other periods, such as Classical Antiquity or the Renaissance. However, their intention was informative, not aesthetic, since at that time few people could read and could understand a story through images: sculptures and paintings. Thus, the most important figures are larger than the rest. Therefore, this difference in size is intentional, not the result of the craftsman’s lack of skill.
You can learn more in Expository Text and 10 Examples of Expository Texts .
Description
Description involves creating a mental image of the object or thing being discussed in the listener’s mind. Its main characteristics are:
- Abundance of adjectives, essential in the description
- Comparisons that help define an object or thing
- It is subjective: concepts such as beautyor sweetness are not objective.
- Attention to detail, since the listener is intended to get as precise an idea as possible
Example description:
In the early days of spring, the countryside turns so white it looks like it’s filled with cotton balls. This is due to the cherry trees, whose blossoms are white. The traditional dark green of the meadows between the trees resembles small islands in a sea of snow, offering a wonderful contrast. The landscape at this time is fantastic and full of beauty.
You can see more in Descriptive Text and 13 Descriptive Text Examples .
Dialogue
Dialogue or conversation is an exchange of statements between two or more participants. Its main characteristics are:
- Presence of turn-taking. In a dialogue, one speaker speaks while the other listens, and so on.
- Spontaneity and immediacy. Many utterances are made in response to another. Thus, planning a dialogue is complicated, as it is spontaneous.
Example of dialogue:
—With the help of technology, a new Mayan city has been discovered.
—Are excavations planned?
—First, we have to deal with the permits and other bureaucratic aspects. For now, it’s impossible to give a date.
—It seems like a very important discovery.
—It seems so; there are still many secrets to be revealed. We’re sure it will be a good opportunity to deepen our knowledge of such a great civilization.
You can also see What is dialogue .
Narration
Narration consists of telling a story . When the speaker or writer writes a narrative text, they have in mind the necessary prototypes for telling it (setting, character descriptions, etc.). Its main characteristics are:
- It can be real or fictitious, depending on the communicative intention.
- It can have an aesthetic intention. A narrative can be accompanied by figures of speech and rhetorical elements to make it more literary.
- It presents a setting in which to situate the action.
Example of narration:
Juan left the museum agitated, with rivers of sweat running down his face. Contemplating the painting caused him to experience a veritable carousel of sensations: the colors, harmonious yet ferocious, seemed the work of a superior sensibility. He thought he would never be able to achieve anything similar, and two tears mingled with the sweat, salting his pale face. He decided to lock himself in his studio and, like a hermit, focus on achieving similar effects.
