Reading: Understanding Text Structure, Cohesion & Coherence (Advanced): B2 Lesson 3: Following Shifts in Topic and Focus Within Longer Texts
CEFR Level: B2 (Upper Intermediate)
Target Reading Sub-skill: Understanding Text Structure, Cohesion & Coherence (Advanced)
Specific Focus: Following Shifts in Topic and Focus Within Longer Texts
What You Will Learn
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
- Understand how authors shift topic or focus between paragraphs in longer texts.
- Identify signal words (discourse markers) that indicate a shift or continuation of topic.
- Recognize how topic sentences guide the focus of each paragraph.
- Follow the development of ideas across multiple paragraphs.
Hello Cambodian Learners!
When reading longer articles or essays, for example, about the economic development of Cambodia or the history of the Khmer Empire, writers don't just talk about one single idea in the same way all through the text. They often explore different aspects of a topic, moving from one point to another. Understanding these shifts in topic and focus is essential for comprehending the overall message and how different parts of the text relate to each other.
Following Topic Shifts
Authors use several techniques to guide readers through shifts in topic or focus:
- New Paragraphs: Usually, a new paragraph signals a new idea, a different aspect of the main topic, or a shift in focus.
- Topic Sentences: The first (or sometimes last) sentence of a paragraph often introduces the specific focus of that paragraph.
- Discourse Markers (Linking Words/Phrases):
- To introduce a new point: Furthermore, Moreover, In addition, Another aspect is...
- To show contrast or a different viewpoint: However, On the other hand, In contrast...
- To show sequence or development: Firstly, Secondly, Next, Subsequently, Finally...
- To signal a return to a previous point or a summary: In conclusion, Overall, Returning to the main point...
- Changes in Keywords: Pay attention if the main nouns or verbs start to change, indicating a new sub-topic.
Example: Click the paragraphs to hear them.
The Impact of Tourism on Local Cultures
P1 Focus: Economic benefits of tourism.
P2 Focus: Shifts to potential negative cultural impacts (signaled by "However").
P3 Focus: Shifts to the need for sustainable tourism as a solution/conclusion (signaled by "Therefore").
Practice Time!
Activity 1: Identify the Focus of Each Paragraph
Read the short article excerpt below, which has three paragraphs. For each paragraph, choose the option that best describes its main focus.
Activity 2: Spot the Shift!
Read the text. Identify the discourse marker or phrase that signals a significant shift in topic or focus between two ideas.
Quick Quiz!
Great Job!
Following shifts in topic and focus is a key skill for understanding the structure and flow of longer, more complex texts. Keep practicing looking for those important transition signals!