Discourse Markers & Text Cohesion Flashcards

Which of the following best describes 'coherence' in a written text?

Answer: The logical flow and unity of ideas across the text

Coherence refers to the logical organization and flow of ideas in a text, ensuring that the overall message is clear and unified.

"She didn't enjoy the movie. _______, she stayed until the end." The relationship between these sentences is best described as:

Answer: Concession

This is a concessive relationship—she stayed despite not enjoying the movie, which is an unexpected or contrasting outcome.

Which pair of sentences is most correctly connected by the marker 'in contrast'?

Answer: She likes reading. In contrast, her brother prefers video games.

Option B correctly uses 'in contrast' to highlight a clear difference in preferences between two comparable subjects (she vs. her brother).

What is the function of the phrase 'to summarize' in academic writing?

Answer: To signal that the writer is condensing the main points

'To summarize' signals that the writer is condensing the main points of the discussion, typically near the end of a section or essay.

"The researchers collected data, _______ analyzed it, and _______ published their findings." Which markers correctly show sequence?

Answer: then / finally

'Then' and 'finally' are sequential discourse markers that indicate the chronological order of steps in a process.

Which sentence uses a discourse marker to add reinforcing information?

Answer: The report was late. Moreover, it contained several errors.

'Moreover' is an additive discourse marker used to add information that reinforces or expands upon the previous point.

In which scenario would 'on the other hand' be most appropriately used?

Answer: When presenting an opposing or alternative perspective

'On the other hand' is used to introduce a contrasting or alternative viewpoint, signaling that the writer is presenting the other side of an issue.