Lesson 22 – linking words

Now we’re going to look at language and the language you need for a good band score.

We’ll start with linking words.

Let’s begin with some tips and advice

 

1. Linking words (and there are different kinds, they don’t all operate in the same way) are ways of making relationships between phrases and sentences.
2. You need to know how to use linking words correctly .
3. You also need to know the function of a linking word, they do different things, adding, contrasting, stressing, intensifying etc..
4. Once you know how to use a linking word effectively then make sure you try and use it – build up a bank of these words..
5. Look at your sentences and decide what you are trying to do – add information, contrast two ideas, draw a conclusion etc.. once you know this then you will find the most appropriate linking word..
6. Using these words effectively will enhance your writing. However, if you re-use them in the same essay then they will weaken the impact so make sure you have alternatives to use.
7. Don’t overuse them – ‘less is more’ a few well-used, well-placed words will improve your writing, over-use will make it sound ridiculous – this is why it is more important to know how and when to use these words than to simply know them.At the beginning of your Task 2 in the exam jot down the linking words you use well and want to try and use then add them into your essay IF they are appropriate.
8. Know which linking words are adverbs and which are conjunctions this will help you to use them correctly.
9. Make sure you know if you need to use a preposition or not and if so, which one is the correct one.
10. NOW is the time to get all of this straight in your mind and to practise – then in the exam it will be second nature.

 

 

Key skills to develop:

 

You need to get familiar with the position and meaning of linking words and also be able to see the relationship of the sentences and phrases.

 

• Write down all the categories of linking words in your learning diary – here are some suggestions – find more words for each category

 

• Make sure you know the grammar as well as the word and function

 

• Go through model essays and look for examples of these words – add them to your list so you know how they should be used then try and use them in your next essay

 

• Try out the words even if you are not sure – your teacher’s feedback will tell you if you are right or not. Remember if you want higher bands like 7 or 8 you have to know how to use these well – if you don’t try you won’t know

 

• These linking words have a function for you and the reader – they help you organise your thoughts but they lead the reader through your writing – look again at the model essays and see how the linking words you choose above do this in these essays.

 

 

Here is a book by my great friend and former colleague Sam McCarter that will really help with writing skills

A Book On Writing You can see if it is available on your library, college or school

 

 

Things to do to learn great linking words:

 

• Look at the list of linking words on the the sharing blog – write sentences for them in the comments box. Comment on other people’s suggestions too (I’m not asking you to be critical say which ones you like or ask questions about them)

 

Don’t forget, if there is anything you don’t understand or can’t find send a message via Contact us

 

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Let’s have a go at some exercises on linking words.

 

Try this exercise – it’s from Sam’s book

 

http://www.gapfillers.co.uk/default.aspx?atk=7770

 

Don’t forget, if there is anything you don’t understand or can’t find send a message via Contact us

Now you’re done!

Good luck and let’s make great progress with IELTS!