B1 Lesson 2: Using Simple Linking Words to Connect Ideas
In our last lesson, we learned to use linking words to connect whole paragraphs. That helped us organize the main arguments of our text. Today, we will focus on using linking words to connect smaller ideas *inside* each paragraph. This will make your sentences flow more smoothly and logically.
Your Toolkit for Connecting Sentences
Here are some common linking words to connect sentences, based on their function.
To ADD a similar idea:
and, also, as well as
Example: I like to eat rice, and I also enjoy noodles.
To show a CONTRAST between ideas:
but, however, although
Example: He is a very good student, but he can be lazy sometimes.
To show a RESULT of something:
so, therefore, as a result
Example: It was raining heavily, so we decided to stay home.
To give a REASON for something:
because, since
Example: She was happy because she passed her exam.
See the Difference: Before and After
Look at this short paragraph about living in Siem Reap. The first version is choppy because it has no linking words. The second version is much smoother.
Before (No Linking Words):
Siem Reap has many job opportunities in tourism. It is a beautiful city with ancient temples. The cost of living is high. It can be crowded with tourists.
After (With Linking Words):
Siem Reap has many job opportunities in tourism, and it is a beautiful city with ancient temples. However, the cost of living is high, so it can be difficult to save money.
✍️ B1 Cohesion Checklist
- ✔️ Have I used linking words like 'and', 'but', or 'so' to connect my sentences?
- ✔️ Does my linking word show the correct relationship (e.g., contrast, result, reason)?
- ✔️ Is my paragraph easy to read and does it flow logically from one sentence to the next?
🧠 Practice Quiz: Choose the Best Linking Word
Choose the best linking word to complete the sentences.
1. I wanted to visit my friend, ______ I was too busy with my work.
- so
- because
- but
2. He studied very hard, ______ he passed the test easily.
- so
- although
- and
Answers: 1 (C), 2 (A)
📝 Homework: Write a Short Paragraph
Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) about your favorite type of food. Use at least two linking words from today's lesson to connect your ideas.
Example:
My favorite food is Khmer curry, because it has a rich and delicious flavor. It has chicken and sweet potatoes, and it is not too spicy, so everyone in my family can enjoy it.
Vocabulary Glossary
- Cohesion: (Noun) - ភាពស្អិតរមួត - The way a text flows and the sentences and paragraphs are linked together. ↩
- Coherence: (Noun) - ភាពស៊ីសង្វាក់គ្នា - The quality of being logical and consistent, making a text easy to understand. ↩
- Linking Word: (Noun Phrase) - ពាក្យភ្ជាប់ - A word or phrase that connects ideas, sentences, or paragraphs. ↩
- Contrast: (Noun) - ភាពផ្ទុយគ្នា - A clear difference between two or more things.
- Result: (Noun) - លទ្ធផល - Something that is caused by another action or event.