B1 Discourse: Identifying Simple Discourse Markers
Welcome to a new B1 series! In this lesson, we will learn about special 'signal' words called Discourse Markers1. These are small but powerful words that organize conversation and show the connection between ideas.
1. The Function of Discourse Markers
Discourse markers are like signposts on a road; they guide the listener and show what's coming next. Let's look at the function of four common markers.
| Discourse Marker | Its Function (Its Job) |
|---|---|
| because | Introduces a reason2 or explanation. (Why?) |
| so | Introduces a result3 or consequence. (What happened next?) |
| but | Introduces a contrast4 or an opposite idea. |
| then | Shows sequence or the next step in a process. |
2. 'because' (Reason) vs. 'so' (Result)
These two words show cause and effect, but in opposite ways. 'Because' introduces the cause, while 'so' introduces the effect.
because (shows the reason)
"I didn't go to the market because it was raining."
so (shows the result)
"It was raining, so I didn't go to the market."
3. 'but' (Contrast)
The word 'but' is a signal that an opposite or different idea is coming. It prepares the listener for a change in direction.
"I like living in Siem Reap, but sometimes it is too hot."
(This contrasts a positive idea with a negative one.)
"He is a very good student, but he is often quiet in class."
(This contrasts two different characteristics.)
4. 'then' (Sequence)
The word 'then' is a simple way to show the order of events or steps in a process. It means "after that."
"First, I will finish my work, and then I will meet you for dinner."
(This shows the sequence: 1. Work -> 2. Dinner)
Quiz: Choose the Correct Marker
Listen to the sentence with a "beep" sound. Choose the discourse marker that best completes the sentence.
-
Sentence 1: "It was very late, ___ I decided to go home."
Which marker fits best? (a) but, (b) so, (c) because
-
Sentence 2: "I wanted to buy the t-shirt, ___ it was too expensive."
Which marker fits best? (a) so, (b) then, (c) but
-
Sentence 3: "He is studying hard ___ he has a big test tomorrow."
Which marker fits best? (a) because, (b) so, (c) but
Click to Show Answers
Answers: 1-b (shows a result), 2-c (shows a contrast), 3-a (shows a reason).
Homework Task
1. Listen for Markers: Listen to a short English podcast or news report for two minutes. Try to write down every time you hear 'because', 'so', 'but', or 'then'. How did the speaker use them to connect their ideas?
2. Complete the Sentences: Complete these sentences with the correct discourse marker.
- I was very hungry, ___ I ate a big lunch.
- I like coffee, ___ I don't like tea.
- First I will call my friend, ___ we will make a plan.
Vocabulary Glossary
- Discourse Marker (noun) - Khmer: សញ្ញាសម្គាល់នៃវាគស័ព្ទ - A word or phrase that organizes speech and signals the relationship between ideas (e.g., however, so, in conclusion). ↩
- Reason (noun) - Khmer: ហេតុផល - The cause or explanation for an action or event. Answers the question "Why?". ↩
- Result (noun) - Khmer: លទ្ធផល - A consequence or outcome of a previous action or event. ↩
- Contrast (noun) - Khmer: ភាពផ្ទុយគ្នា - A clear difference between two or more things. ↩