CohesionCohesion

Goal: to help the reader follow the flow of ideas

To do this writers use cohesive ties (words or phrases that signal their line of thought, giving indications of the structure or organization of ideas)

Form of ParagraphsForm of Paragraphs

The typical paragraph follows a certain pattern

Umbrella sentence, which is often an assertion (a.k.a.. topic sentence)

Form of ParagraphsForm of Paragraphs

Supporting detail--to substantiate assertion or provide relevant facts

Functional repetition of key wordsSignposts--but, in addition to, however, on the

other hand, first, second, third, etc.

Deductive ParagraphDeductive Paragraph

Begins with a topic sentenceBasic formula: (subject + controlling idea)Moves into specific support sentences

Advantages of the Deductive StructureAdvantages of the Deductive Structure

Highlights the most important informationAllows for speed readingAids reader comprehension and retention

Advantages of the Deductive StructureAdvantages of the Deductive Structure

Provides readers with an overview so they can then place details in context

Forces writers to articulate their message clearly and succinctly

How to Achieve CohesionHow to Achieve Cohesion

Open with a topic sentence that sets up key terms

Arrange sentences in a logical and discernible order

How to Achieve CohesionHow to Achieve Cohesion

Repeat key terms as subjects of sentencesUse old/new principle (put familiar

information first in sentences)Use traditional markers as signposts

Old/New PrincipleOld/New Principle

Information that is already known to readers is more psychologically accessible

Old/New PrincipleOld/New Principle

Therefore, arrange the order of the information in a sentence so that you 1) Begin with information that has already been

introduced, is more familiar, and is less complex 2) Move toward information that is newer, less

familiar, and more complex

Ways of Marking LogicWays of Marking Logic

Continuous relationship: Continuous markers tell readers that what follows is

what they would expect Continuous markers tell readers to go on

Ways of Marking Logic Ways of Marking Logic

Discontinuous relationship: Discontinuous markers tell readers what what follows

is NOT what they would expect. (Tells readers to expect a reversal)

Goals for Final ReportGoals for Final Report

Rewrite sections/paragraphs to include: Forecast statements Frame statements Given/new order A plan of development for each section

Rewrite paragraphs to include: Topic sentences Cohesive markers Signal words