CEFR - Common European Framework Written Cohesion and Coherence Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which statement best distinguishes 'cohesion' from 'coherence' in written text according to the CEFR framework?
- Cohesion refers to the logical flow of ideas, while coherence refers to the use of linking words.
- Cohesion is the use of advanced vocabulary, while coherence is the use of correct grammar.
- Cohesion is primarily about paragraph structure, while coherence is about sentence-level accuracy.
- Cohesion concerns the grammatical and lexical links connecting sentences, while coherence is the overall logical unity of the text. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Cohesion concerns the grammatical and lexical links connecting sentences, while coherence is the overall logical unity of the text.
Cohesion refers to the specific linguistic devices (e.g., pronouns, conjunctions, repetition) that create explicit links between sentences and clauses. Coherence is the broader, more conceptual quality of a text being logical, unified, and making sense as a whole. A text can be cohesive (using many linking words) but still lack overall coherence if the ideas are not logically connected.
Question 2: A learner writes the following paragraph: 'The company's profits grew by 15% last year. A new CEO was appointed in January. The marketing department uses social media extensively. The headquarters will be moved to a new city.' According to CEFR criteria, which aspect of this B1-level writing most needs improvement to reach a B2 level?
- Coherence and cohesion (Correct answer)
- Grammatical accuracy
- Vocabulary range
- Orthographic control (spelling and punctuation)
Correct answer: Coherence and cohesion
The sentences are grammatically correct and individually understandable, but they are presented as a disconnected list. To meet B2 standards, the writer must use cohesive devices to link these ideas into a coherent argument or narrative, showing the relationships between them (e.g., 'The company's profits grew... largely because the new CEO, appointed in January, supported the marketing department's extensive use of social media.').
Question 3: A key indicator of a writer's progression from CEFR level B2 to C1 in written production is the ability to...
- use basic connectors like 'and', 'but', and 'so' correctly.
- write simple, grammatically correct sentences about familiar topics.
- use a wide variety of organizational patterns and cohesive devices with flexibility and subtlety. (Correct answer)
- avoid all spelling and punctuation errors in their writing.
Correct answer: use a wide variety of organizational patterns and cohesive devices with flexibility and subtlety.
While a B2 writer can produce clear, detailed text and use linking words, a C1 writer demonstrates greater mastery by handling complex subjects in a well-structured text, showing controlled use of various organizational patterns and a wide range of connectors and cohesive devices subtly and effectively. The emphasis at C1 is on flexibility, control, and nuance.
Question 4: In the sentence, 'The study revealed a significant correlation between the two variables; nevertheless, the sample size was too small to draw definitive conclusions.' What is the primary function of the cohesive device 'nevertheless'?
- To signal an additional, supporting point.
- To introduce a contrasting idea or concession. (Correct answer)
- To indicate a cause-and-effect relationship.
- To provide a specific example of the previous statement.
Correct answer: To introduce a contrasting idea or concession.
'Nevertheless' is an adverbial connector used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or qualifies what has just been said. It functions similarly to 'however' or 'in spite of that,' signaling to the reader that a counterpoint or limitation is about to be presented. This demonstrates an understanding of how specific cohesive devices manage the logical flow of an argument.
Question 5: A writer produces the following text: 'The city has invested heavily in public transport. Therefore, many residents still prefer to drive their own cars due to convenience.' What is the primary weakness in this text concerning cohesion?
- The vocabulary is too simplistic.
- The second sentence is a run-on sentence.
- The punctuation is incorrect.
- The linking word 'Therefore' establishes a faulty logical connection. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: The linking word 'Therefore' establishes a faulty logical connection.
The word 'Therefore' signals that the second sentence is a direct result of the first. However, the fact that residents prefer to drive is a contrast to the city's investment, not a result of it. A more appropriate cohesive device would be 'However,' 'Nonetheless,' or 'Despite this,' which would correctly signal the contrasting relationship between the two ideas.
Question 6: According to the CEFR, what is the principal goal of using organizational patterns and cohesive devices in a written text?
- To create a clear, smoothly flowing, and well-structured piece of writing that the reader can easily follow. (Correct answer)
- To demonstrate the writer's ability to use complex grammatical structures and advanced vocabulary.
- To ensure the text meets a specific word count required for an examination or assignment.
- To strictly follow a single, prescribed format for all types of written communication.
Correct answer: To create a clear, smoothly flowing, and well-structured piece of writing that the reader can easily follow.
The ultimate purpose of cohesion and coherence is to ensure the text is a unified, logical whole. The CEFR C1 descriptor for Coherence and Cohesion states that a user can 'produce clear, smoothly flowing, well-structured speech [and text], showing controlled use of organisational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices,' which helps the recipient understand the message effectively.
CEFR - Common European Framework Written Cohesion and Coherence Questions and Answers
Which statement best distinguishes 'cohesion' from 'coherence' in written text according to the CEFR framework?