Introduction to Coherence

Study Skill 12.2 Introduction to Coherence

 

Introductory Activity: Paragraphs in Action

To begin our exploration of coherence, let's read another set of sample paragraphs: 

 Example Paragraph 1

My bedtime routine helps me to be more efficient and organized.  First, I prepare my book bag and clothes for tomorrow. I put everything I need for school into my book bag. However, I do not put my lunch in my bag at this time because it needs to stay in the refrigerator until the morning. I also lay out my choice of clothing for the next day.  For example, if the weather will be cold, I will make sure to lay out a jumper to wear. Next, I put on my pajamas and place my dirty clothing in the laundry basket. Then, I wash my face with a special soap my mom bought for me. After my face is clean, it is time to brush and floss my teeth.  Finally, I am ready to go to bed and get some sleep before another exciting day. Following this routine helps me save time in the morning and insures I don’t forget anything I need for school the next day.

Now let's take a look at another version of this paragraph:

 Example Paragraph 2

After school I have a lot of chores to complete. I help my mom cook dinner and sometimes I help do the dishes.  My homework is the first thing I do after school. I have a dog named Sunny and I take her for a walk. If I have time, I like to play video games with my brother or watch a movie.  I go to bed.

Now that you have read these two paragraphs, think about your answers to these questions:

  1. Which paragraph do you feel is the easiest to read and understand?  

  2. Read each paragraph out loud.  Which one reads more smoothly?

  3. Which paragraph is more coherent?  Why?

Introduction to the Concept

A strong paragraph has three important characteristics:  structure, unity, coherence.

  1. Structure includes the topic sentence, the supporting sentences, and the clincher (concluding sentence).  
  2. Unity is achieved by connecting the supporting sentences to the topic.
  3. Coherence is made by using transitions, which are like signposts for the reader.

We compared the structure of a paragraph to a flower. The stem is the topic sentence, it anchors the paragraph as the statement of the topic and main idea.  The leaves, like the supporting sentences, provides support for the bloom, which is the clincher. All of these parts working together create unity.

Paragraph structure.png

The third characteristic of a paragraph is coherence.  Coherence is the bridge that links all the ideas of the paragraph together. When you have strong coherence, your writing is easy to read and flows smoothly. It is easy for the reader to see the order of events and understand how each idea or event is related.

In Skill 1.1 of this module we focused on structure and unity. Skill 1.2 we will focus on coherence.

Introduction to Coherence

Coherence refers to the tools that we use to link all the ideas of a paragraph together.  In writing, we often say a piece "reads smoothly" or has a "good flow." If you write with coherence, you create a paragraph that is easy to read and follow from beginning to end.

One of the best ways to create coherence in your writing is to use transition words. These words help you bridge the gap between one idea, sentence, or paragraph and the next in your writing.  There are different types of transitions and it is important to know when to use each one. Remember, these are sign posts for your reader.  Using inappropriate transitions can lead your reader in the wrong direction and this decreases the coherence of your essay.

In this section, we will cover the following types of transitions:

    • Transitions to show order of events (chronology)
    • Transitions to compare and contrast
    • Transitions to identify examples or other support

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Special Focus: Writing in a Second Language

Have you ever wondered why it is so difficult to think in English instead of translating everything in your head?  This video provides some fantastic tips on how to think more like a native English speaker. While your native language is amazing, sometimes you want or need to respond quickly in a conversation in English.  Take a look at this video and learn how your brain works with language and get some ideas on making the language transition smoother and more natural.

 Video: How to Think in English

Watch this video to learn more about how to stop translating in your head and use fluent, natural English without hesitations.

Source: Go Natural English