Speaking: Fluency & Coherence B2 - Lesson 2: Using Sophisticated Discourse Markers (Furthermore, Nevertheless) 🗣️🔗🧐
Objective: To learn and practice using a range of more sophisticated discourse markers to connect ideas logically, improve coherence, and add formality and precision to speech.
- Understand the role of discourse markers in structuring speech and writing.
- Learn advanced discourse markers for adding information, contrasting ideas, showing cause/result, and sequencing.
- Practice incorporating these markers into sentences and short talks.
- Improve overall coherence and fluency by using these linking words and phrases effectively.
Discourse markers (also known as linking words, transition words, or cohesive devices) are words or phrases that help connect ideas and show the relationship between them. While you already use basic ones like "and," "but," and "so," at a B2 level, using more sophisticated discourse markers can make your English sound more fluent, coherent, and academic or professional. This lesson will introduce some of these advanced connectors.
What are Discourse Markers?
They are like signposts in your speech or writing, guiding the listener or reader through your ideas. They help to:
- Organize and structure information.
- Show logical connections between sentences and paragraphs.
- Add emphasis or clarify points.
- Manage the flow of conversation.
Sophisticated Discourse Markers & Their Functions
1. Adding Information / Reinforcing an Idea
- Furthermore, ... (Formal; adds another important point)
- Moreover, ... (Formal; similar to furthermore)
- In addition (to this), ... (Adds another piece of information)
- What's more, ... (Informal; adds an extra, often surprising, point)
- Not only... but also... (Emphasizes two related points)
2. Showing Contrast or Contradiction
- However, ... (Common contrast word)
- Nevertheless, / Nonetheless, ... (Formal; despite that)
- Despite / In spite of [noun phrase / -ing form], ...
- On the other hand, ... (Presents a contrasting viewpoint)
- Conversely, ... (Formal; introduces an opposite idea)
3. Showing Cause or Result
- Therefore, ... (Formal; as a result)
- Consequently, / As a result, ... (Shows the outcome)
- Thus, ... (Formal; similar to therefore)
- Hence, ... (Formal; for this reason)
4. Giving Examples
- For instance, / For example, ...
- To illustrate, ... (More formal)
- Namely, / Specifically, ... (Introduces specific examples or details)
Practice Activities
Activity 1: Choosing the Right Discourse Marker
Choose the most appropriate discourse marker to complete each sentence. There might be more than one good option. Click the button to hear a sample answer.
-
The weather was terrible; ________, we decided to postpone our trip to Kep.
(Options: Furthermore, Consequently, Nevertheless) -
She is an excellent student. ________, she participates in many extracurricular activities.
(Options: However, Moreover, Therefore) -
Learning a new language takes a lot of effort. ________, it is very rewarding.
(Options: Thus, For instance, Nonetheless)
Activity 2: Linking Ideas
Combine the two sentences using an appropriate sophisticated discourse marker from this lesson. You might need to rephrase slightly.
-
Sentence 1: The city offers many job opportunities.
Sentence 2: The cost of living is very high.
(Your combined sentence) -
Sentence 1: He didn't study for the exam.
Sentence 2: He failed the exam.
(Your combined sentence)
Activity 3: Short Talk Preparation
Choose one of the topics below. Prepare a short talk (3-4 sentences) and try to include at least two sophisticated discourse markers from this lesson.
- The benefits of regular exercise.
- The challenges of learning English in Cambodia.
- Why tourism is important for a country like Cambodia.
Example for "Benefits of regular exercise": "Regular exercise has many benefits. Firstly, it improves physical health. Furthermore, it can significantly reduce stress and improve mental well-being. Consequently, people who exercise regularly often report a higher quality of life."
- Understand their meaning and function: Don't just use them randomly. Make sure they fit the logical connection you want to make.
- Don't overuse them: Too many sophisticated markers can make your speech sound unnatural or overly formal for the situation. Balance them with simpler connectors.
- Pay attention to punctuation: Many discourse markers (like "However," "Therefore," "Furthermore,") are followed by a comma when they start a sentence.
- Listen for them in authentic English: Notice how native speakers use them in talks, lectures, and formal discussions. This will help you understand their natural placement and tone.
- Start by incorporating one or two new ones into your speaking regularly until they feel comfortable.
Summary: Using sophisticated discourse markers like "furthermore," "nevertheless," and "consequently" can significantly enhance the fluency, coherence, and level of formality in your English. By understanding their functions and practicing their use, you can connect your ideas more effectively and communicate with greater precision and sophistication.