Linking Paragraphs
Understand how texts can be made cohesive by using the starting point of a sentence or paragraph to give prominence to the message and to guide the reader through the text.
Read this first
The first words of a paragraph carry the join. Use them on purpose.
Words you need
- Cohesion
- The way a text holds together.
- Connective
- A word like however, later or as a result.
- Prominence
- What you put first gets noticed most.
Worked example
e.g. Join these two paragraphs. One is about cost, the next about safety.
- Look at how paragraph two currently starts.
- Helmets stop head injuries. Nothing links it back.
- Decide the relationship first. Is it adding, or contrasting?
- This one adds a second reason. So use an adding connective.
- Put it at the start, where it gets noticed.
- Just as important, helmets stop head injuries.
- Now read both paragraphs aloud. The join should feel smooth.
Name the relationship first. Then pick the connective that fits it.
Practice
Name the relationship, then pick the word.
1Which connective shows a contrast?with a picture
AnswerHowever.
2Where in the paragraph does the connective go?with a picture
AnswerAt or near the start.
3Paragraph two gives the opposite view. Which connective?with a hint
Need a hint?
You need a contrast word.
AnswerHowever or On the other hand.
4Paragraph two happens afterwards. Which connective?with a hint
Need a hint?
You need a time word.
AnswerLater or Afterwards.
5Paragraph two gives the effect of paragraph one. Which connective?on your own
AnswerAs a result or Because of this.
6Why does the first word of a paragraph matter most?on your own
AnswerIt is the most noticed spot. It tells the reader how to read what follows.
Think about it
1
Why can too many connectives hurt?
One good answerThe writing starts to clank. Some joins are clear without a signpost.
2
What does a reader do when paragraphs do not link?
One good answerThey work harder, or stop reading. The ideas feel like a list.
Common mistakes
Connectives are only for the start of sentences.
They work mid-sentence too. But the start is where they do the most work.
Any connective will do.
No. However promises a contrast. If none comes, the reader is misled.