Thesis and Dissertation Writing in a Second Language: a handbook for Supervisors

The language of Move 3 – hedging
In Move 3, the writer begins to interpret their results and make claims about
their meaning and significance (see Table 9.1). The writer may also make
comparisons with previous studies in order to justify methods or procedures
followed and may comment on the strengths, limitations or generalizability
Box 9.2 Extract from a PhD thesis in engineering illustrating Move 1
Chapter 5
Topic based 
AQUITARD HYDROGEOLOGY
chapter title
In this chapter, the hydrogeological importance of 
Metatextual move
aquitards is considered by examining geological 
– previews
controls on vertical leakage, such as permeability
chapter
of the aquitard matrix and spatial heterogeneity 
within the aquitard-aquifer system.
5.1 Results
Definition of
The various units identified in this chapter are
terms used.
referred to as upper, middle and lower silt units 
Reader given
(based upon grain size analysis) and as numbered 
outline of
aquifer units. The specific location of these units 
chapter
within the Shepparton or Calivil Formations is
organization
considered after the detailed analysis data are
presented.
Source: Timms 2001: 100

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Box 9.3 Extract from a PhD thesis in history showing Move 2
Note use of