Structure, Unity and Logic in

Academic Writing

Irina, Jordan, & Blair

Department of Applied Linguistics

Introduction
● Transition phrases

● Backoutlining

● Peer review working session

Transition phrases
• Helpful for adding flow and structure to an essay
• makes it easier for readers to understand the movement
between ideas
• The overuse of “however”, “because”, “as a result” and other
transitions
“Writing an essay can be challenging. However, there are
techniques that can make the process a little easier. For example,
taking plenty of notes on the subject can help the writer generate
ideas. Therefore, note-taking is an important "pre-writing" strategy.
In addition, some people "free-write," writing quickly for ten or
twenty minutes to see what ideas arise. However, taking notes and
free-writing are only the beginning.”
Transitional phrases list
Link to the handout:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1lijY_8jWxy1lJ5w2VvFJ
0ecoWzwmeECR1bTUafg7Pek/edit?usp=sharing
By yourself
• Look at your essay and use highlighting or underlining to
identify the transition phrases and words you’ve used
• refer to the hand out if you need help
Backoutlining to see your essay
- What is backoutlining?
- This helps you see your essay from another point of view!
In your group (2-3 people)
• Identify the thesis
• Identify the single topic of each paragraph
• Identity the points in each paragraph
• Identify the transitions between thoughts within the
paragraphs and topics between different paragraphs
• Consider why the author decided to organize his/her essay
in such a way

* Write your responses on the back of the

transitional phrases handout OR blank sheet of
paper
Detailed instruction
After identifying each item in your partner’s essay, discuss the
following questions with each other:
i.e. What is missing?
Did you have trouble understanding some sentences? Why?
Is the background of the problem present?
Does the solution makes sense to what the problem is?
If the solution has multiple steps, do they make sense together?
How do some arguments support/do not support the thesis
statement?
Questions for further development
• Find a “gem” in your peer’s essay, what sentence or
paragraph really stood out?
• Has your partner used transitions appropriately and
effectively?
• Is the essay logically set up?
• Do you have any lingering questions after reading their
essay?
Thank you.

Any Questions or Comments?

Department of Applied Linguistics