EnglishMaking a strong contrast
Choose although, despite, or however for each gap.
- ___ the high price, many students bought the app.
- ___ the app was expensive, many students bought it.
- The app was expensive; ___, many students bought it.
- ___ feeling tired, Sara finished her homework.
- ___ Sara felt tired, she finished her homework.
- The bus was late; ___, we arrived on time.
- ___ the noise, I could concentrate.
- ___ the café was noisy, I could concentrate.
Linker | What follows? | Example |
|---|---|---|
although / though | subject + verb | Although the café was noisy, I could concentrate. |
despite / in spite of | noun or verb-ing | Despite the noise, I could concentrate. |
however | a new complete idea | The café was noisy; however, I could concentrate. |
Building coherent arguments
Put the ideas into a logical argument
Arrange the sentences from the general topic to supporting points and then to contrast or result.
Arrange the ideas to form a coherent argument.
- Many schools want to use tablets in class.
- Tablets give students quick access to information.
- However, they can also distract learners.
Arrange the ideas to form a coherent argument.
- More people move to big cities for work.
- Consequently, public transport can become crowded.
- Nevertheless, cities offer many opportunities.
Arrange the ideas to form a coherent argument.
- Remote work saves commuting time.
- Moreover, workers can often choose a quieter workspace.
- On the other hand, remote work can feel lonely.
Choose the correct pattern
Look carefully at the words after the gap.
- [___] the long journey, I enjoy living outside the city.
- [___] I live outside the city, I enjoy the quiet.
Complete each short argument
Choose a linker that matches the relationship between the ideas.
- Online lessons are flexible. Add a supporting benefit: [___] , students can study from different places.
- Some people prefer city life because there are many jobs. Add a contrasting point: [___] , housing can be expensive.
- [___] having limited space, city centres can offer excellent services.
- The school improved its internet connection. Show the result: [___] , students could use online resources more easily.
Listening to a school debate
Listen for each speaker’s main position, evidence, and linking words.
- What are Maya’s two main arguments for more technology in schools?
- What are Leo’s two main concerns?
- Name two linking words you hear. What relationship does each one show?
- Who is more convincing for you, and why?
Comparing two places
Compare the two places.
- Describe what you can see.
- Give one argument for and one argument against living in each place.
- Use at least four linkers from this word bank:
however · although · despite · whereas · while · moreover · on the other hand · therefore
Mini debate: remote work or office work?
Topic: Remote work is better than office work.
Choose a side:
- Side A: Remote work is better.
- Side B: Office work is better.
Your argument plan
Point | Useful ideas |
|---|---|
Productivity | quiet workspace, fewer interruptions, supervision |
Travel | commuting time, transport costs, tiredness |
Teamwork | online meetings, quick questions, relationships |
Work-life balance | flexible hours, clear boundaries, isolation |
Useful language
- Although remote work is flexible, ...
- Remote work saves time; however, ...
- Moreover, ...
- On the other hand, ...
- I understand your point; nevertheless, ...
- Therefore, I believe that ...
Speaking sequence
- Give a short opening argument for your side.
- Respond to one point from the other side.
- Give your final opinion.
Use however, although, moreover, and on the other hand.
Write a balanced argument
Write 80–150 words.
Question: Is technology in schools mostly positive?
Use this structure:
- On the one hand, ...
- However, ...
- Although ..., ...
- On the other hand, ...
- Add one linker for addition or result: moreover, furthermore, therefore, consequently, or as a result.
- In conclusion, ...
Check before you finish:
Focus | Question |
|---|---|
Grammar | Does although have a full clause after it? Does despite have a noun or verb-ing form? |
Coherence | Does every sentence connect clearly to the next one? |
Vocabulary | Have you used precise words for benefits and drawbacks? |
Key language to take away
Purpose | Linkers |
|---|---|
Contrast clause | although / though + subject + verb |
Contrast with a noun or activity | despite / in spite of + noun or verb-ing |
Contrast between complete ideas | however, nevertheless, on the other hand |
Compare two sides | whereas, while |
Add a supporting point | moreover, furthermore |
Show a result | therefore, as a result, consequently |
Decide whether each statement is correct.
For next time
Write about 100 words on this question:
Students should wear school uniforms.
Present both sides of the argument and use at least five target linkers.
