Writing: Cohesion & Coherence (B2) - Lesson 1: Using a Range of Cohesive Devices Effectively
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Hello B2 Writers! 👋
Well-written texts are not just collections of good sentences; they are texts where sentences and paragraphs connect smoothly and logically. This "sticking together" is called cohesion, and it leads to overall coherence (making sense).
Today, we'll explore various cohesive devices – the tools that help you link your ideas effectively. These include linking words, pronouns, synonyms, and strategic repetition.
In this lesson, you will:
- Understand the importance of cohesion and coherence.
- Review and expand your knowledge of linking words/transition signals.
- Learn how pronouns, synonyms, and careful repetition contribute to cohesion.
- Practice using a range of cohesive devices to improve your writing.
What are Cohesion and Coherence?
Cohesion refers to the grammatical and lexical links within a text that hold it together and give it meaning. It's about how words, sentences, and paragraphs are connected on a structural level. Think of it as the "glue" of your writing.
Coherence is about the logical organization and connection of ideas in a text. A coherent text makes sense to the reader; the ideas flow smoothly and are easy to follow. Cohesion helps to create coherence.
Using cohesive devices effectively is key to achieving both cohesion and coherence in your writing.
Linking Words / Transition Signals (Review & Expand)
You've learned about some linking words before. They are crucial for showing relationships between ideas. At B2, you should aim to use a wider variety with precision.
Categories & Examples:
- Addition: Furthermore, Moreover, In addition, Also, Besides
Example: The project requires careful planning. Furthermore, it will need significant funding. - Contrast: However, Nevertheless, Nonetheless, On the other hand, In contrast, Despite this
Example: The evidence seems convincing. Nevertheless, further research is needed. - Result/Consequence: Therefore, Consequently, As a result, Thus, Hence
Example: The company failed to innovate. Consequently, it lost market share. - Sequence/Time: Firstly, Secondly, Subsequently, Meanwhile, Afterwards, Previously, Finally
Example: Initially, the plan was simple. Subsequently, several complications arose. - Example/Elaboration: For instance, For example, Specifically, In other words, To illustrate
Example: Many renewable energy sources are available. For instance, solar and wind power are becoming increasingly common.
Remember the punctuation rules for these (often a comma after when they start a sentence, or semicolon before and comma after if joining independent clauses).
Pronoun Reference for Cohesion
Using pronouns (he, she, it, they, this, that, these, those, etc.) correctly is vital for cohesion. They refer back to nouns or noun phrases mentioned earlier (antecedents), avoiding repetition and linking ideas.
Key Points:
- Clear Antecedent: Ensure every pronoun has a clear, easily identifiable antecedent. Ambiguous references confuse the reader.
Ambiguous: The manager told the employee that he would receive a bonus. (Who is "he"?)
Clearer: The manager told the employee, "You will receive a bonus." OR The manager informed the employee that the employee would receive a bonus. (Or rephrase). - Agreement: Pronouns must agree in number (singular/plural) and gender (if applicable) with their antecedents.
Example: The company launched its new product. (It was successful.)
Example: The scientists published their findings. (They were significant.) - Using this, that, these, those for ideas: These demonstrative pronouns can refer to whole ideas or situations mentioned previously, which helps connect thoughts.
Example: Many people are working from home more often. This has led to changes in city traffic patterns.
Lexical Cohesion: Synonyms & Repetition
Lexical cohesion refers to how vocabulary choices help link parts of a text.
1. Using Synonyms:
Repeating the exact same nouns or verbs too often can make writing monotonous. Using synonyms (words with similar meanings) adds variety while maintaining the connection to the idea.
Example: The large dog barked at the mailman. The enormous canine seemed very protective of its territory.
2. Repetition of Key Words/Phrases (Strategic Use):
While you should avoid unnecessary repetition, sometimes repeating a key word or phrase is important for emphasis or to ensure clarity, especially if it's a central concept of your text.
Example: Climate change is a significant global challenge. Addressing climate change requires international cooperation and immediate action.
The trick is to balance using synonyms for variety with repeating key terms for clarity and emphasis.
3. Lexical Sets/Chains:
Using words from the same topic area (lexical set) also creates cohesion. For example, if your topic is "cooking," using words like "ingredients, recipe, oven, stir, bake, delicious" naturally links your sentences.
Practice Using Cohesive Devices!
✨ Tips for Effective Cohesion ✨
- Plan Your Links: As you plan your writing, think about how your ideas connect and which cohesive devices will best show these connections.
- Be Clear with Pronouns: Always double-check that your pronouns have clear antecedents.
- Vary Your Linking Words: Don't rely on just one or two (e.g., "and," "but"). Use a range to show different relationships.
- Use Synonyms Wisely: Choose synonyms that fit the context and tone of your writing. Don't just pick any word from a thesaurus.
- Read Aloud: Listen for smooth transitions and clear connections. If it sounds choppy or confusing, you may need more or better cohesive devices.
Writing That Sticks Together! 🎉
Mastering cohesive devices will make your writing more sophisticated, fluent, and much easier for your readers to understand and follow. Keep practicing these techniques!