What are Connectors?
Connectors are words or phrases used to link ideas, sentences, or paragraphs. They help improve the flow and coherence of writing or speech.
Types of Connectors
- Coordinating Conjunctions: Connect clauses of equal importance.
Examples: and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet.
- Subordinating Conjunctions: Connect dependent clauses to independent clauses.
Examples: because, although, since, unless.
- Conjunctive Adverbs: Link independent clauses with transitional meaning.
Examples: however, therefore, moreover, consequently.
Examples of Connectors in Sentences:
- I wanted to go out, but it started raining.
- She studied hard; however, she didn’t pass the exam.
- We will go hiking if the weather is nice.
What are Focus Structures?
Focus structures are grammatical constructions used to emphasize specific parts of a sentence. These structures help direct the reader's or listener's attention to important information.
Common Focus Structures
- It-Cleft Sentences: Used to emphasize a specific part of a sentence.
Example: It was John who broke the vase.
- What-Cleft Sentences: Focus on a particular idea or thing.
Example: What I need is a good book to read.
- Inversion: Rearranges the normal word order for emphasis.
Example: Never have I seen such a beautiful sunset.
Examples of Focus Structures in Sentences:
- It-Cleft: It was Sarah who suggested the idea.
- What-Cleft: What he enjoys most is playing the guitar.
- Inversion: Rarely do we find such dedication in employees.
How to Use Connectors and Focus Structures
- Identify the relationship between ideas you want to connect (e.g., contrast, cause-effect, addition).
- Choose appropriate connectors for clarity and coherence.
- Use focus structures to emphasize key points or details.
Practice Exercises
- Complete the sentence using an appropriate connector:
The project was delayed ________ the team faced unexpected challenges.
Your Answer: ____________________________
Answer: because
- Rewrite the sentence as an It-cleft sentence:
John found the missing keys.
Your Answer: ____________________________
Answer: It was John who found the missing keys.
- Create an inversion sentence for emphasis:
Original: She had never been so happy.
Your Answer: ____________________________
Answer: Never had she been so happy.