Supplementary exercise on improving writing skills

Coherence in writing essays

Coherence can be created by repeating key terms,pronouns and synonyms.

COHERENCE TECHNIQUES

1. Repeating key terms or phrases.This helps readers stay focused on the subject you are discussing.

Examples:

The use of symbolism in Lisa's short story was fascinating.This symbolism was found throughout the story.

The Concorde is the fastest passenger jet in the world.However,after a terrible crash in 2000,many people wondered if the Concorde was a safe airplane.


2. Using a pronoun to refer to a previous noun or noun phrase.

This method adds coherence by helping readers clearly follow the flow of information.

Examples:

Sally shocked everyone in her family.She decided to become a hot-air balloonist.

The system of checks and balances is used to guarantee that none of the three branches of government has too much power.It promotes equity of power.


3.Using synonyms. Synonyms help maintain coherence by avoiding unnecessary repetition of information.

Examples:

The Olympic Games are played every four years in different countries.This international competition involves thousands of athletes from around the world.

J.D. Salinger became an international success for his book The Catcher in the Rye.This novel touched millions of young people's lives.

Read the following paragraphs.Underline and identify the three coherence devices and write KT (repetition of key term),P (pronoun) or synonym (S) above them.

1. Dr.Louis' lecture took place at 8 pm. last night.His important lecture covered a wide variety of historical topics,including political warfare in Africa and its effects on the local population.This conflict has been going on for more than twenty years,and it will probably continue for the forseeable future.

2. I wonder who the creator of the hourglass was.I wonder how this person changed people's lives by this invention.What did they use it for?Did they appreciate this hourglass or end up resenting it?

3. The TOEFL is a trademarked exam created by Educational Testing Service.This exam evaluates student performance in the skills of listening comprehension,grammar and,more recently,essay writing.These skills are necessary in order to achieve academic success in university settings.The TOEFL is widely used in the United States and Canada,and it is administered through testing centers around the world.
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