Reading: Understanding Text Structure, Cohesion & Coherence: B1 Lesson 3: Understanding How Discourse Markers Link Ideas
CEFR Level: B1 (Intermediate)
Target Reading Sub-skill: Understanding Text Structure, Cohesion & Coherence
Specific Focus: Understanding How Discourse Markers (e.g., however, therefore, for example) Link Ideas
What You Will Learn
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
- Understand what discourse markers (linking words/phrases) are.
- Recognize common discourse markers that show addition, contrast, result, reason, and example.
- Understand how these discourse markers connect ideas within and between sentences.
- Choose appropriate discourse markers to complete sentences.
Hello Cambodian Learners!
When you read a text in English, like an article about tourism in Cambodia or a story set in Battambang, you'll notice special words and phrases that act like signposts. These are called discourse markers or linking words. They guide you through the text by showing how ideas are connected. For example, "however" shows a difference, while "for example" introduces an illustration of a point. Understanding these markers is key to following the writer's logic!
What are Discourse Markers?
Discourse markers are words or phrases that connect ideas, sentences, or paragraphs. They help to make the text flow smoothly and show the relationship between different parts.
Let's look at some common types and examples. Click on the example sentences to hear them.
1. Addition (Adding more information)
- and: The market sells fruits and vegetables.
- also: She likes reading. She also enjoys swimming.
- in addition / furthermore / moreover (more formal): The new park is beautiful. Furthermore, it has a playground for children.
2. Contrast (Showing a difference or opposite idea)
- but: He is tired, but he wants to finish his work.
- however: Many people like city life. However, I prefer the quiet countryside.
- although / though / even though: Although it was raining, they went for a walk.
3. Result / Consequence (Showing what happened because of something)
- so: It was very hot, so we went swimming in the river.
- therefore / as a result (more formal): He studied hard for the exam. Therefore, he got a good grade.
4. Reason (Explaining why something happened)
- because: She was happy because she received a gift.
- since / as: As it was getting late, we decided to go home.
5. Example / Illustration (Giving an example)
- for example / for instance: Cambodia has many beautiful temples, for example, Angkor Wat and Bayon.
- such as: I enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling and hiking.
Practice Time!
Activity 1: Choose the Best Discourse Marker
Read the sentence(s) with a blank. Click the best discourse marker to complete the sentence and connect the ideas.
Activity 2: What's the Function?
Read the sentence. Look at the highlighted discourse marker. What is its main function or job in the sentence? Click the best description.
Quick Quiz!
Great Job!
Understanding discourse markers is like having a map for reading! They show you how the ideas in a text are connected and make it easier to follow the writer's message.