IELTS Marking Guide-Coherence and Cohesion

Coherence and Cohesion in English

Coherence and cohesion are fundamental aspects of effective communication in English, especially in academic and professional writing. They are crucial for conveying ideas logically, ensuring clarity, and structuring information in a way that readers can easily follow. These concepts play a vital role in language proficiency assessments, such as the IELTS and TOEFL, where they are evaluated as part of writing and speaking criteria. This article explores the meanings, importance, and practical strategies for achieving coherence and cohesion in English.

Understanding Coherence and Cohesion

Coherence

Coherence refers to the logical connection and flow of ideas in a text. A coherent piece of writing or speech presents ideas in an organized manner, ensuring that each sentence or paragraph contributes to the central argument or theme. Coherence is about what is being communicated and how well the ideas are connected logically.

Characteristics of Coherence:

1. Logical order: Ideas are organized in a sequence that makes sense.
2. Relevance: Each sentence and paragraph relates to the main topic.
3. Clarity: The writer’s or speaker’s purpose is clear.

Example of Coherence:

• Poor: “Technology has changed the way we live. Many people use social media. AI is advancing rapidly.”
• Better: “Technology has transformed modern life in numerous ways. For instance, social media platforms have revolutionized communication, while advancements in artificial intelligence are reshaping industries.”

Cohesion

Cohesion refers to the grammatical and lexical links that hold a text together. It ensures that the relationship between sentences and paragraphs is smooth and interconnected. Cohesion is about how ideas are tied together using linguistic devices such as pronouns, conjunctions, and transitional phrases.

Features of Cohesion:

1. Use of linking words (e.g., however, therefore, in addition).
2. Reference words (e.g., pronouns like “this,” “that,” “they”).
3. Repetition and paraphrasing for emphasis.
4. Logical connectors and conjunctions (e.g., “and,” “but,” “because”).

Example of Cohesion:

• Poor: “I enjoy hiking. Hiking is good for health. It reduces stress.”
• Better: “I enjoy hiking because it is good for health and helps reduce stress.”

Importance of Coherence and Cohesion

1. Clarity of Ideas
   Coherence and cohesion ensure that the reader or listener can understand the main idea without confusion. Disjointed or poorly connected sentences can obscure the intended message.
2. Logical Flow
   Organizing ideas logically and linking them effectively prevents abrupt shifts in topics or arguments, making the text more engaging.
3. Improved Comprehension
   When ideas are presented coherently and cohesively, readers can easily follow the argument or narrative, enhancing comprehension.
4. Higher Scores in Language Assessments
   In tests like IELTS and TOEFL, coherence and cohesion are key criteria for evaluating writing and speaking skills. A well-organized essay or speech with appropriate transitions and links can significantly improve scores.

Strategies to Achieve Coherence in Writing

1. Organize Ideas

• Use a clear structure: Start with an introduction, followed by body paragraphs, and conclude with a summary.
• Plan your content: Before writing, outline your main points and supporting details.

2. Use Topic Sentences
   Each paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea. This ensures that the reader knows what the paragraph is about.
3. Maintain Relevance
   Avoid including irrelevant details that do not contribute to the main argument.
4. Follow a Logical Order

• Chronological order: When describing a sequence of events.
• Order of importance: Presenting the most critical points first.
• Cause and effect: Explaining relationships between actions and outcomes.

5. Use Paragraphing Effectively
   Each paragraph should focus on a single idea or theme, contributing to the overall coherence of the text.

Strategies to Achieve Cohesion in Writing

1. Use Linking Words and Phrases

• To add information: Moreover, in addition, furthermore.
• To contrast: However, on the other hand, nevertheless.
• To show cause and effect: Therefore, consequently, as a result.
• To give examples: For instance, such as, to illustrate.

Example:
Without cohesion: “Climate change is a pressing issue. Governments are taking action. Renewable energy is being promoted.”
With cohesion: “Climate change is a pressing issue. As a result, governments are taking action by promoting renewable energy.”

2. Employ Pronouns for Reference
   Pronouns like “this,” “that,” “it,” and “they” can refer back to previously mentioned ideas, creating a smoother connection.
   Example: “The report highlights several challenges. These include a lack of funding and public awareness.”
3. Use Substitution and Synonyms
   Avoid repetition by substituting words or phrases with synonyms or paraphrasing.
   Example: “The city’s infrastructure is outdated. This antiquated system requires immediate upgrades.”
4. Repeat Key Words Thoughtfully
   Repeating important terms can reinforce the central theme, but excessive repetition should be avoided.
5. Use Conjunctions and Relative Clauses
   Conjunctions like “and,” “but,” and “because,” and relative clauses like “which” and “that,” help link ideas naturally.

Coherence and Cohesion in Speaking

Coherence in Speaking

1. Plan Your Answer
   For tasks like IELTS Speaking Part 2, take a few seconds to organize your thoughts. Begin with a clear introduction, develop your ideas, and conclude logically.
2. Use Logical Sequencing
   Arrange your points systematically. For example:

• “Firstly, I believe that…”
• “Another reason is…”
• “Finally, I would like to add that…”

3. Avoid Tangents
   Stick to the topic and avoid discussing unrelated ideas.

Cohesion in Speaking

1. Use Linking Words
   Incorporate connectors such as “so,” “because,” “although,” and “as a result” to link sentences smoothly.
2. Refer Back to Earlier Points
   Use phrases like “As I mentioned earlier…” or “This connects to my previous point…” to show cohesion.
3. Use Pronouns and Synonyms
   Instead of repeating the same words, use pronouns or synonyms to maintain fluency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overusing Linking Words
   Excessive use of connectors like “however” or “therefore” can make the text seem forced. Use them naturally and only when necessary.
2. Repetition Without Purpose
   Repeating the same words or phrases without adding value can hinder cohesion.
3. Disjointed Ideas
   Jumping between unrelated topics without transitions disrupts coherence.
4. Lack of Paragraphing
   Failing to divide text into paragraphs can make it difficult for readers to follow your argument.

Examples of Coherence and Cohesion

Example 1: Academic Writing Task 2

Question: “Some people believe that governments should invest more in public transport to reduce traffic congestion. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

Without Coherence and Cohesion:
“Public transport is important. Traffic is a problem. Many people use cars. The government should do something. It can be expensive.”

With Coherence and Cohesion:
“Traffic congestion has become a significant issue in many urban areas. One effective way to address this problem is by investing in public transport. For instance, improving bus and train networks can encourage more people to use them instead of private vehicles. Consequently, this would reduce the number of cars on the road and alleviate congestion. Although such investments may initially be costly, the long-term benefits for the environment and public health make them worthwhile.”

Conclusion

Coherence and cohesion are essential for effective communication in English. While coherence ensures the logical flow of ideas, cohesion connects these ideas through grammatical and lexical means. Achieving a high level of coherence and cohesion requires planning, organized thought, and the appropriate use of linking devices. By understanding these concepts and practicing regularly, writers and speakers can enhance their ability to express ideas clearly and persuasively, improving both their proficiency and their performance in language assessments.

For more on coherence and cohesion, please click