Overview
This lecture explains the importance of transitional devices for coherence and cohesion in writing and outlines the five key stages in the writing process.
Coherence and Cohesion in Writing
- Coherence ensures ideas in writing are clear, logical, and well-organized.
- Cohesion refers to how sentences and paragraphs are connected through linguistic devices.
- Transitional devices help achieve both coherence and cohesion by linking ideas smoothly.
Transitional Devices: Definition and Types
- Transitional devices are words or phrases connecting sentences, ideas, or paragraphs.
- They guide readers, signal relationships (e.g., cause-effect, addition), and prevent abrupt shifts.
Types of Transitional Devices
- Addition: furthermore, moreover, in addition, also, besides.
- Contrast/Comparison: however, on the other hand, similarly, conversely, nevertheless, in contrast.
- Cause and Effect: therefore, as a result, consequently, because, hence.
- Time/Sequence: first, next, finally, before, after, subsequently.
- Conclusion/Summary: in conclusion, overall, in summary.
- Clarification/Emphasis: in other words, that is to say, indeed.
Using Transitional Devices Effectively
- Transitions signal relationships between sections, maintain logical flow, and clarify idea connections.
- Proper use prevents fragmented writing and enhances readability.
- Overusing transitions can feel forced; underusing leads to choppy writing.
- Choose transitions that accurately reflect relationships between ideas.
The Writing Process: Five Key Stages
Prewriting
- Brainstorm and organize ideas, decide on purpose and audience, set structure.
- Activities: mind mapping, researching, outlining, and identifying what to write and for whom.
Drafting
- Turn ideas into sentences and paragraphs, focusing on content over perfection.
- Write introductions, develop body, and craft conclusions even if the draft is rough.
Revising
- Improve content, structure, and clarity; reorganize, add details, or cut unnecessary parts.
- Strengthen arguments, clarify ideas, and enhance transitions.
Editing
- Correct grammar, punctuation, spelling, and sentence structure.
- Ensure words are used correctly and revise for sentence variety and precision.
Publishing/Finalizing
- Prepare final copy: format, proofread, and submit or share the work as appropriate.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Coherence — the logical and clear arrangement of ideas in writing.
- Cohesion — the connection and flow between sentences and paragraphs.
- Transitional Devices — words or phrases that link ideas and ensure smooth flow.
- Writing Process — a series of steps (prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, publishing) to develop and refine writing.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice using transitional devices to link ideas in your writing.
- Follow the five-stage writing process in your next writing assignment.