ACE Helpdesk
Saved on this device only — nothing leaves your browser.

Module four of the writing course: signalling transition, choosing the right connecting word for the logical relationship between ideas, with four practice questions, a ranking task, a final self-check with model answers, and tap-for-Japanese help, for Japanese researchers at B1 and B2 levels

Words with a dotted line have help in Japanese. Tap them. 点線のある単語は日本語の説明があります。

Stage 1 · Foundations · Module 4

Signalling transition: joining ideas clearly

Connecting words show the reader how two ideas relate. The wrong one sends the wrong signal. Each word has a job — choose the one that matches your meaning.

The sample was small. Therefore, the results were still clear. (wrong signal — these ideas contrast)
The sample was small. However, the results were still clear.
Six jobs, and the words that do them
+
Adding — also, moreover, furthermore, in addition
≠
Contrasting — however, nevertheless, on the other hand, in contrast
→
Showing a result — therefore, thus, hence, as a result, consequently
←
Giving a reason — because, since, as, due to, owing to
eg
Giving an example — for example, for instance, such as
1·2
Ordering — first, second, finally, in conclusion
A small point — the comma
When a connecting word like however or therefore starts a sentence, put a comma after it.
However, the effect was small.
The first test failed; however, the second worked. (joining two sentences: semicolon before, comma after)
Contrast — two ideas that disagree

"The theory predicted a rise. ______, the data showed a fall."

However Therefore Moreover For example
Result — one idea causes the next

"The road was closed. ______, the team took a longer route."

Therefore However In addition For instance
Adding — one more idea of the same kind

"The method is fast. ______, it is cheap to run."

Moreover However As a result In conclusion
Reason — why something happened

"The trial was stopped ______ the funding ended."

because therefore however moreover
Put these in order — drag the best to the top

The idea: the first result was weak, but the team kept going. Drag the version that signals this best to the top.

Best — right signal
1 The first result was weak. For example, the team continued the study.
2 The first result was weak. Therefore, the team continued the study.
3 The first result was weak. Nevertheless, the team continued the study.
Worst — wrong signal
Final self-check — choose the right connector

Three pairs of ideas. For each, tap the connecting word that matches the relationship. You will see at once if it is right.

"The drug lowered blood pressure. ___ , it had no effect on weight." (the ideas contrast)

However
Therefore
Moreover

"Rainfall increased sharply. ___ , the river burst its banks." (one caused the other)

However
As a result
For example

"Many metals conduct heat well, ___ copper and aluminium." (introducing examples)

however
therefore
such as
Bonus worksheet

Keep practising away from the screen — download this module’s worksheet as a printable PDF.

Bonus Worksheet for this module

Want a person to look at your own writing?

Book a Helpdesk session