Reading: Understanding Text Structure, Cohesion & Coherence
B1 Lesson 3: Understanding How Discourse Markers Link Ideas
Signposts for a Reader
We have learned how basic words like 'but' and 'so' connect ideas. Today, we will learn about more advanced connecting words and phrases called Discourse Markers1.
Think of these as "signposts" on a road. They guide you as a reader, showing you how one idea connects to the next. Understanding them is key to improving your reading cohesion3 and comprehension at a higher level.
Common Discourse Markers and Their Functions
Function 1: Adding a Point
Markers: In addition, Furthermore, Moreover
Purpose: To add another similar idea or piece of supporting information.
Example: "Learning English is important for finding a job in tourism. Furthermore, it allows you to enjoy movies and music from around the world."
Function 2: Showing Contrast
Markers: However, On the other hand, Nevertheless
Purpose: To introduce an idea that is different or opposite to the previous one.
Example: "The boat trip on the river is very scenic and relaxing. However, it can be quite expensive if you go alone."
Function 3: Giving an Example
Markers: For example, For instance
Purpose: To introduce a specific example that helps explain a general idea.
Example: "Kampot has many beautiful old buildings from the French colonial period. For example, you can see many of them near the Old Market."
Function 4: Showing a Result
Markers: Therefore, As a result, Consequently
Purpose: To show the effect, result, or consequence of something.
Example: "He did not study for the final exam. As a result, he did not receive a passing grade."
Your Turn! Choose the Right Signpost.
Practice Quiz
Choose the best discourse marker to link the two sentences.
1. The rainy season can cause flooding in some areas. __________, it is essential for growing rice.
What is the best marker? (Therefore / However / For example)
Answer: However. The sentence shows a contrast between a negative idea (flooding) and a positive idea (good for rice).
2. My friend is very interested in history. __________, she spends a lot of time reading books about the Angkorian period.
What is the best marker? (On the other hand / For instance / As a result)
Answer: As a result (or Therefore). Her spending a lot of time reading is a result of her being interested in history.
Vocabulary Glossary
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Discourse Marker (noun)
ភាសាខ្មែរ: ពាក្យសញ្ញា
A word or phrase that acts like a "signpost" to connect ideas and guide the reader (e.g., 'However,', 'Therefore,'). ↩ back to text -
Link Ideas (verb phrase)
ភាសាខ្មែរ: តភ្ជាប់គំនិត
To connect two or more thoughts to show the logical relationship between them. ↩ back to text -
Cohesion (noun)
ភាសាខ្មែរ: ភាពស្អិតរមួតនៃអត្ថបទ
How the different parts of a text are linked together to create a smooth and logical whole. ↩ back to text
Homework Task
Connect the Sentences!
Combine the two sentences into one new sentence using an appropriate discourse marker from the lesson. You may need to change the punctuation slightly.
- Sentence pair 1: The demand for Kampot pepper is very high. Farmers are able to get a good price for their crop.
- Sentence pair 2: I would like to go to the party. I have to study for an important test.
Example Answer for #1: "The demand for Kampot pepper is very high; therefore, farmers are able to get a good price for their crop."