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Paragraph coherence: linking words
Useful linking languageHere is some suggested language:
a. one point/argument/reason/idea is
b. an additional point/argument/reason/idea is
c. another point/argument/reason/idea is
d. again,
e. firstly/secondly/thirdly
f. finally
Isnt this too simple? Shouldnt I use moreover and furthermore
The short answer to that is no. Perhaps the best reason to give is that this is the
language I use myself and I like to teach the language I use. I dont use moreover and
furthermore The second reason is that in the IELTS exam you want to keep your
structure language simple. Its a sad truth that too many candidates make mistakes in
using moreover and furthermore.
I want to emphasise that one real benefit to using this method is that it makes writing
easier. Once you have written: One reason.., you know that you are going to begin
your next sentence Another reason. Your writing automatically becomes more
coherent.
How should I use it?
You need to be slightly careful here as it wont always be appropriate. It works best
when you have to write a paragraph and you have several ideas which you cant
develop over a sentence. What it does is make your writing more coherent and thats
25% of your marks.
Three examples
This technique works particularly well in questions such as this recent IELTS writing
topic where you are asked to discuss a plural topic: responsibilities.
Some people think that paying taxes is enough to contribute to society. Others argue
that being a citizen involves more responsibilities. What is your opinion?
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If you are a strong candidate, you might choose to write a 4 paragraph essay with one
paragraph discussing paying tax and the other content paragraph discussing other
responsibilities. Here is my version:
There are, however, various other responsibilities we owe our society. One is that
young people should either do military service or some community work before starting
their careers. A second is that in some countries citizens do not just have the right to
vote but they are in fact obliged to vote by law. Again, it is arguable that the better off
within a society ought to provide for the underprivileged through charity work.
This technique is also of use in essays where you are asked to discuss the advantages
and disadvantages of an issue. Here is another recent IELTS topic:
Some people working abroad bring their family to live with them for a period of time. Do
you think it has more advantages or disadvantages?
Here is my sample paragraph discussing the disadvantages:
Perhaps the most significant disadvantage is cost. Typically, it will be more expensive
for people working abroad to support their families in the host country where the cost of
living is higher. Another disadvantage is that the childrens education may be disrupted
if they need to go to school in another country. Thirdly, it may be extremely difficult for
the family to integrate if they are unable to speak the language.
The third example comes from my sample essay on compulsory education.
There are, however, equally strong arguments against making school compulsory until
the age of 18. One such argument is that not everyone is academic and that some
people benefit more from vocational training. For instance, someone who wants to
become a car mechanic may find better training and more satisfaction in an apprentice
scheme. Another related argument is that, in todays world, young people are maturing
ever more quickly and are able to make their own life decisions by the age of 16.
Notes
1. Each of my paragraphs starts with a short simple sentence: this is an extremely good habit to get
into.
2. You may find yourself repeating certain words such as argument: this is in fact a good thing as it
helps the coherence of your writing. It is not always correct to vary your vocabulary.
3. There is some flexibility in how you can combine these connecting words
4. Each of paragraphs contains 2/3 points. Id suggest that that is about right if you are going to try
this technique.