Reading: Understanding Text Structure, Cohesion & Coherence (Advanced): B2 Lesson 2: Understanding Complex Cohesive Devices and Reference Systems
CEFR Level: B2 (Upper Intermediate)
Target Reading Sub-skill: Understanding Text Structure, Cohesion & Coherence (Advanced)
Specific Focus: Understanding Complex Cohesive Devices and Reference Systems
What You Will Learn
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
- Identify and understand more complex pronoun references (e.g., referring to whole ideas).
- Recognize how synonyms and lexical chains are used to create cohesion without repetition.
- Understand the function of demonstratives (this, that, these, those) and "such + noun" as cohesive links.
- Recognize and interpret more sophisticated logical connectors (e.g., nevertheless, furthermore, consequently).
Hello Cambodian Learners!
Good writing flows smoothly, with ideas clearly connected. Writers use special tools called cohesive devices to link sentences and paragraphs. At the B2 level, you'll see more complex ways of doing this. For instance, a pronoun might refer to a whole idea, not just one noun, or a writer might use a chain of related words to talk about a topic, like the development challenges and progress in Battambang. Understanding these devices is key to following complex texts.
Complex Cohesive Devices
Cohesion makes a text "stick together." Let's explore some advanced ways writers achieve this. Click on the example sentences to hear them.
1. Advanced Pronoun Referencing & Demonstratives
Pronouns can refer to more than just a single noun. Demonstratives (this, that, these, those) also link ideas.
"This" refers to the whole idea of "investing heavily in improving road infrastructure."
"Such abilities" refers back to "digital skills."
2. Synonyms and Lexical Chains
Writers use words with similar meanings (synonyms) or related words (lexical chains) to avoid repetition and add variety while keeping the topic clear.
"Magnificent structures" and "historical monuments" are used to refer back to "the ancient temples of Angkor" without repeating the exact phrase.
3. More Sophisticated Logical Connectors
These words and phrases show complex relationships between ideas.
- Contrast/Concession: nevertheless, nonetheless, despite this, in spite of, conversely The journey was long and tiring; nevertheless, they enjoyed the beautiful scenery.
- Addition/Reinforcement: furthermore, moreover, in addition to, what is more The project will create jobs. Moreover, it will improve local infrastructure.
- Result/Consequence (stronger): consequently, as a consequence, thus The company did not meet its sales targets. Consequently, some staff were made redundant.
Practice Time!
Activity 1: What Does It Refer To?
Read the sentences. What does the highlighted word/phrase refer to? Choose the best option.
Activity 2: Choose the Best Cohesive Device
Read the sentences with a blank. Choose the best cohesive device to logically connect the ideas.
Quick Quiz!
Great Job!
Understanding complex cohesive devices and reference systems is crucial for navigating B2 level texts. It helps you see the 'big picture' and how all the ideas fit together smoothly!