Connectors: The Key to Effective Communication

Objectives

1. Understand the function of connectors in the English language.

2. Identify and use connectors correctly in sentences and texts.

3. Develop reading and text comprehension skills.

4. Enhance writing expression skills in English.

Contextualization

Connectors are words or expressions that help link ideas in a sentence or text, providing better fluency and coherence. They are essential for effective communication, allowing information to be presented clearly and logically. Without connectors, our sentences and texts can seem disconnected and difficult to understand. For example, imagine trying to tell a story or explain a concept without using words like 'and', 'but', 'therefore', or 'because'. It would be much more complicated, right? In the job market, connectors are used in various fields, such as journalism, where they help structure news stories coherently, and in business, where they are fundamental for writing clear emails and reports.

Relevance of the Theme

The topic of connectors is of extreme importance in the current context, as clarity and coherence in written communication are essential skills in both academic environments and the job market. Proper use of connectors significantly contributes to text comprehension, facilitating the exchange of information and ideas effectively. Furthermore, the ability to structure cohesive texts is valued in various professions, such as journalism, business, and programming, highlighting the practical and professional relevance of this knowledge.

Definition of Connectors

Connectors are words or expressions that link ideas in a sentence or text, providing better fluency and coherence. They are essential for effective communication, allowing information to be presented clearly and logically.

• Connectors help link ideas and improve the fluency of the text.

• They are essential for effective communication.

• Without connectors, sentences and texts can seem disconnected and difficult to understand.

Types of Connectors

There are several types of connectors, each with a specific function. Among them, we can highlight connectors of addition, contrast, cause and consequence, among others. Each type of connector plays an important role in building cohesive sentences and texts.

• Addition connectors: and, also, besides, furthermore.

• Contrast connectors: but, however, although, yet.

• Cause and consequence connectors: because, so, therefore, as a result.

Use of Connectors in Long Texts

Connectors are particularly important in long texts, as they help structure ideas clearly and logically. They guide the reader through the text, facilitating understanding and coherence of the information presented.

• Connectors guide the reader through the text.

• They facilitate the understanding and coherence of the information.

• They are essential for structuring long texts.

Practical Applications

• In journalism, connectors help structure news and articles clearly and coherently.
• In business, the ability to write well-structured emails and reports is crucial for internal and external communication.
• In programming, connectors are used in code documentation to explain the logic behind algorithms and processes.

Key Terms

• Connectors: Words or expressions that link ideas in a sentence or text.

• Coherence: The quality of a text whose parts are logically and harmoniously connected.

• Cohesion: The connection between parts of a text that guarantees its unity and clarity.

Questions

• How can the absence of connectors affect the clarity and coherence of a text?

• In what ways can connectors change the meaning of a sentence?

• Why is the skill of using connectors appropriately important in the job market?

Conclusion

To Reflect

Connectors are fundamental elements in the structuring of sentences and texts in English. They not only link ideas but also ensure that communication is clear, coherent, and logical. Throughout this lesson, we saw how connectors play a crucial role in reading and writing, improving the fluency and comprehension of texts. We reflected on the importance of connectors in various areas of the job market, such as journalism, business, and programming. The ability to use connectors appropriately is a valuable skill that can facilitate communication and the exchange of information both in academic and professional environments.

Mini Challenge - Creating a Cohesive Text with Connectors

This mini-challenge will help consolidate your understanding of using connectors to build cohesive and coherent texts.

• Divide into groups of 3 to 4 people.
• Each group will receive a list of connectors (e.g., and, but, because, so, therefore).
• Create a coherent paragraph using at least five of the provided connectors.
• Share your paragraph with the class and explain how the connectors helped give meaning to the text.
• Discuss with your peers the different ways the connectors were used and their importance.