eng8-u4-writing· UNIT 4. MANNERS AND RULES· ~20 min

Unit 4 Writing: Transition words

Choose transitions that show addition, contrast, time order, and examples.

Transition words help readers follow the relationship between main points and supporting details. A writer may add another point, contrast two ideas, show when events happen, or introduce an example. Choose from the relationship in the sentence, not from the connector alone. Some transitions can serve more than one closely related purpose: firstly can add a point while also marking its position in a list. The surrounding ideas determine the best use.

Key terms

transition word — A word or phrase that shows how one idea relates to another.
addition — A relationship in which another supporting idea is added.
contrast — A relationship that highlights a difference or unexpected opposition.
time order — The sequence in which events or steps happen.
example — A specific instance that illustrates a broader idea.
Choose by relationship
RelationshipQuestion to askUseful transitions
AdditionDoes the next idea reinforce the first?in addition, also, moreover
ContrastDoes the next idea differ or surprise?but, however, on the other hand
Time or orderWhat happens first, next, or later?first, next, then, later, finally
ExampleDoes the next sentence give a specific instance?for example, for instance
✎Match the relationship
  1. 1Ideas: ‘The notice is clear. Some visitors still ignore it.’
  2. 2Relationship: The second idea contrasts with the expectation created by the first.
  3. 3Transition: Use however or but, depending on the sentence structure.
✎Combine two relationships
  1. 1General point: ‘Several habits show consideration.’
  2. 2Example: ‘For example, covering a cough protects people nearby.’
  3. 3Added point: ‘In addition, silencing a phone avoids disturbing others.’
🚫Do not choose by sound alone

A familiar transition is wrong if its relationship does not match the ideas.

💡Categories can overlap

Firstly may introduce an added point and mark its place in a sequence or list.

⚠️Keep the lesson plan scoped

Page 77 practises two main points with two to four supporting sentences each; other writing tasks can use different structures.

Rules

  1. 1Use addition transitions such as in addition, also, or moreover when ideas reinforce one another.
  2. 2Use contrast transitions such as but or however when the next idea differs from what came before.
  3. 3Use on the one hand and on the other hand when presenting two sides of a comparison or contrast.
  4. 4Use time and order transitions such as first, next, then, later, and finally to guide a sequence.
  5. 5Use for example or for instance before a specific illustration of a broader idea.
  6. 6Read the complete context because a word such as firstly can both add a point and show list order.

Practice

4 easy · 4 medium · 4 hard

Up to 10 random questions per test

EasyMediumHardMixed