Reading: Understanding Text Structure, Cohesion & Coherence
B2 Lesson 3: Following Shifts in Topic and Focus
Listen to the main reading passage.
Before You Read 🧠
Key Vocabulary (Click 🔊)
Let's learn these important words for this lesson.
What are "Signposts"? 🪧
When you read a long text, it's easy to get lost. Good writers use "signposts" (Discourse Markers) to help you. These are words that act like road signs, telling you where the text is going next.
They can signal: a change in direction, an added point, or a conclusion.
Common Signposts and Their Jobs
However, On the other hand, Despite this, Nevertheless
Furthermore, Moreover, In addition, Also
Therefore, As a result, Consequently, Thus
Reading Practice: The Rise of Remote Work
Read the passage below. Pay attention to the highlighted signpost words and the explanation of the topic shift.
The rise of high-speed internet has fundamentally changed the modern workplace. For decades, the standard model was a five-day, 9-to-5 commute to a central office. This structure provided clear boundaries between work and home life. However, in recent years, a new model has become extremely popular: remote work.
(Signpost "However," shifts the topic from the "old model" to the "new model".)
One of the primary benefits of this shift is flexibility. Employees report higher levels of job satisfaction because they can manage their own schedules, avoiding stressful commutes and spending more time with family. Moreover, companies themselves can benefit. They can save significantly on the costs of large office spaces and utilities.
(Signpost "Moreover," adds another positive point to the "benefits" topic.)
Despite these advantages, remote work is not without its challenges. The lack of daily, in-person interaction can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation for employees. Furthermore, managers often worry about maintaining productivity and company culture when their team is not in the same building.
(Signpost "Despite these advantages," makes a major shift from the "benefits" topic to the "challenges" topic.)
As a result, many companies are now exploring a "hybrid model," which attempts to combine the flexibility of remote work with the collaborative benefits of the office. This model, while complex, may offer the best path forward.
(Signpost "As a result," signals a conclusion based on the previous two paragraphs.)
Practice What You Learned 🎯
Quiz: Choose the Correct Signpost
Read the sentences and choose the best word to connect them logically. Click "Check Answers" when done.
1. "I've finished my report. __________, I've also completed the presentation."
2. "The company performed well last quarter. __________, its main competitor saw a 20% drop in sales."
3. "The project was poorly managed from the start. __________, it failed to meet its deadline."
Key Vocabulary Reference (Click 🔊)
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Discourse Marker / Signpost
A word or phrase that connects, organizes, and guides the listener/reader (e.g., However, Therefore, In addition).
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Fundamental
Forming a necessary base or core; of central importance.
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Commute
The journey you make from home to work or school.
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Isolation
The state of being far away from others; feeling alone.
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Hybrid Model
A system that combines two different elements (e.g., working from home *and* working in the office).
Your Reading Mission ⭐
Become a "Signpost" Detective!
- Find an English news article (from the BBC, Phnom Penh Post, etc.).
- Read one or two paragraphs and find three signpost words (like
However,Furthermore,As a result). - Write down the sentence. Below it, write one sentence explaining the "shift."
Example:
Sentence: "Despite this investment, the company's profits did not increase."
My Note: The word "Despite" signals a contrast. The author is shifting from a positive idea (investment) to a negative result (no profit).