Wednesday 17 November 2010

Linking words

Some students asked me, in class, to give you a list of connectors, conjunctions, etc.,that is to say, any linking word which you can use when speaking and/or in your compositions.

First, you can watch this nice oldie:




Now, you can read this example, in which linking words are in bold:

In English, the same as in Spanish, we tend to use some linking words to create more complex sentences, to join paragraphs and, in other words, to enrichen our speech or writing, so as not to just build up rather simple sentences. However, many students find it difficult to feel confident enough about which linking word they should use and when. In other words, they tend to use the same connectors all the time and consequently, their compositions, for example, may appear repetitive. And, what is worse, they may even look like tasks carried out by someone whose level is lower, not showing the real level of an Intermediate or Advanced student. So, there are a few hints a student should follow in order to create more complex sentences, without forgetting that a rather too long sentence is even worse than a simple one, though. In addition, you must always bear in mind that, when using connectors, it is important to learn not only the words themselves but also their adecuate position and usage in sentences.

Now, you can have a look at the following links:

Conjunctions: discussions and interactive exercises

List of connectors

Conjunctions

Connectors in English, translated into Spanish, with examples.

Have a look at the explanations this web page offers

Glossary in both Spanish and English

List of conjunctions in English (with exercises)

List of connectors in English (with exercises)

Exercises

Connector review

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