Using Transitional Devices and Appropriate Expressions in Letters
A good letter feels easy to read because ideas connect smoothly and the language fits the reader. Today you will use transitional devices (also called cohesive devices) to guide your reader through your message, and you will choose appropriate expressions for a formal letter or an informal letter. You will apply language register, connect parts of a letter clearly, and end with a strong closing. By the end, you will draft short letter sections that sound natural, respectful, and well-organized.
🎯 Learning Goals
By the end of the lesson, you will be able to:
- Select and use at least 10 transitional devices correctly to connect ideas in a short letter paragraph.
- Rewrite at least 8 expressions by shifting them appropriately between formal and informal language register.
- Produce a two-paragraph letter draft that includes correct letter parts, smooth transitions, and a suitable closing for the target reader.
🧩 Key Ideas & Terms
- Transitional devices – words or phrases that link ideas so writing flows smoothly (also called cohesive devices).
- Cohesion – the way sentences stick together through clear links and connectors.
- Sequence – the order of steps or events (often shown with transitions like “first,” “next,” “finally”).
- Contrast – showing differences (often with “however,” “but,” “on the other hand”).
- Cause and effect – showing reasons and results (“because,” “therefore,” “as a result”).
- Language register – the level of formality you choose based on the reader and purpose.
- Appropriate expressions – greetings, requests, and closings that fit formal or informal letters.
- Formal letter – a letter written for official, respectful communication (schools, offices, leaders).
- Informal letter – a letter written to friends or family using relaxed, friendly language.
🔄 Quick Recall / Prior Knowledge
Quick check before we apply skills. Answer in your notebook, then open the suggested answers.
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Name two differences between formal and informal letters.
Show Answer
Formal letters use respectful language, complete sentences, and polite requests; they usually have official purposes and readers. Informal letters use friendly language, casual expressions, and a personal tone; they are written to people you know well.
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List the common parts of a letter in order (at least five).
Show Answer
Common parts include: heading/date, inside address (formal), salutation, body, closing, signature/name. Some letters also include a subject line.
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What does language register depend on?
Show Answer
It depends on the reader (who you write to), the purpose (why you write), and the situation (official vs personal). These factors guide how formal or informal your expressions should be.
📖 Explore the Lesson
Work through the checkpoints. Each one moves you from understanding to real letter writing.
Checkpoint 1: Why Transitions Matter in Letters
Mini-goal: Explain how transitional devices improve clarity and tone in letters.
When you write a letter, you are guiding a reader through your thoughts. The reader cannot see your facial expressions or hear your voice, so your words must do extra work. Transitional devices act like signposts. They tell your reader when you are starting a new point, adding support, giving an example, or concluding. Without transitions, a letter can feel like a list of random sentences. The reader might still understand the topic, but the message will feel rushed or confusing.
Think about a request letter to a school official. You may begin with your purpose, explain the situation, provide reasons, and end with a polite closing. If you jump from “I am writing to request…” to “My family has a problem…” to “Please approve…” without connectors, your reader may feel pressured or unsure how your ideas relate. Transitions create a respectful, organized tone. They show that you have thought carefully and you are not simply demanding something.
Transitions also protect meaning. For example, “I studied hard. I failed the test.” The reader may wonder why these sentences sit together. But when you add “However,” you show contrast: “I studied hard; however, I failed the test.” Now the relationship is clear. In letters, that clarity is important because misunderstandings can lead to wrong decisions or hurt feelings.
Guided discussion: Ask yourself: What do I want my reader to do? What steps of thinking must they follow to agree? Then choose transitions that match those steps. Use “first” when you give reasons in order. Use “for example” when you give proof. Use “therefore” when you show your conclusion.
Real-life tie-in: In real life, people often read letters quickly. A principal or office staff member may scan your message. Clear transitions help them catch your main points even when they are busy.
Mini-summary: Transitional devices help letters feel organized, respectful, and easy to follow. They show relationships between ideas, reduce misunderstanding, and support your purpose.
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What is one problem a reader might face if a letter has no transitions?
Show Answer
The reader may feel confused about how ideas connect, miss key reasons, or misunderstand the writer’s purpose because the message feels like unrelated sentences.
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Which type of transition do you use most often in daily speech: addition, contrast, sequence, or cause/effect? Why?
Show Answer
Many people use addition (“and,” “also”) most because they build on ideas. Others use cause/effect (“because”) to explain reasons. Any choice is fine if you explain your reason.
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Rewrite this pair to show contrast: “I wanted to attend. I was sick.”
Show Answer
Possible answers: “I wanted to attend; however, I was sick.” / “Although I wanted to attend, I was sick.”
Checkpoint 2: A Practical Toolkit of Transitional Devices
Mini-goal: Choose transitions by function (sequence, addition, contrast, example, cause/effect, conclusion).
Not all transitions do the same job. When you pick the right transition, you make your letter sound natural and logical. When you pick the wrong one, you confuse your reader. A helpful way to choose transitions is to ask: “What relationship do I want to show between these ideas?” The main relationships you will use in letters are sequence (order), addition (more points), example (proof), contrast (difference), cause/effect (reasons and results), and conclusion (wrapping up).
Here is a quick toolkit. Use it as a reference while you draft, but do not overuse it. Too many transitions can make writing feel unnatural. Aim for clear connections, not fancy vocabulary.
| Purpose | Common Transitional Devices | Letter Use |
|---|---|---|
| Sequence | first, next, then, after that, finally | Explain steps, timeline, or ordered reasons |
| Addition | also, moreover, in addition, besides | Add supporting reasons or details |
| Example | for example, for instance, such as | Provide proof or illustration |
| Contrast | however, but, although, on the other hand | Show difference or limitation |
| Cause/Effect | because, since, therefore, as a result | Explain reasons and outcomes |
| Conclusion | in conclusion, to sum up, overall, in short | Wrap up and lead into your closing |
Guided discussion: Notice that some transitions are stronger than others. “And” is common, but “in addition” may sound more formal. “But” is simple, but “however” can sound more official. That means transitions also connect to language register. In a formal letter, you often choose transitions that sound more structured. In an informal letter, simpler transitions may feel more natural.
Real-life tie-in: When you apply for something (a scholarship, a club position, permission), a clear sequence and cause/effect transitions make your reasons sound fair and logical. People trust organized thinking.
Mini-summary: Choose transitions based on the relationship you want to show. A simple toolkit helps you match transitions to purpose and adjust them for formal or informal register.
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Which transition would best show an example: “____, our school library has only ten reading books”?
Show Answer
“For example,” “For instance,” or “Such as” would work. A common choice is “For example,”
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Which is more formal: “and” or “moreover”? How can you tell?
Show Answer
“Moreover” is typically more formal because it appears often in academic or official writing and signals a structured addition of points.
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Write one sentence using a cause/effect transition to explain a request.
Show Answer
Example: “Because our classroom lacks proper ventilation, I respectfully request permission to open the windows during class.”
Checkpoint 3: Appropriate Expressions for Greetings, Requests, and Closings
Mini-goal: Select expressions that fit formal and informal letters.
Transitional devices help ideas connect, but letters also need the right expressions to sound polite, friendly, or official. Appropriate expressions include greetings (salutations), polite requests, and closings. These expressions signal your relationship with the reader. If you use an informal greeting in a formal letter, you may sound disrespectful. If you use a very formal tone with a close friend, you may sound distant or unnatural.
Start with greetings. In a formal letter, greetings often include titles and last names: “Dear Mr. Santos,” “Dear Principal Reyes,” or “Dear Sir/Madam,” when you do not know the name. In informal letters, greetings are warmer and personal: “Hi Ate Mia,” “Hello Kuya,” “Dear Friend,” or simply the person’s name.
Now look at requests. Formal requests use respectful modal verbs and polite structures: “I would like to request…,” “May I ask for…,” “I respectfully seek your approval…,” or “Could you please…?” Informal requests can be direct but still kind: “Can you help me with…?” “Could you send me…?” “Let me know if you can…” The key is matching the request to the reader. A request to a school office should avoid slang and should show respect.
Closings also matter. Formal closings include “Respectfully,” “Sincerely,” “Yours faithfully,” or “Thank you for your time and consideration.” Informal closings include “Best,” “Take care,” “See you soon,” or “Love.” Choose a closing that fits your relationship and purpose.
Guided discussion: Ask yourself: What is my role? What is the reader’s role? If the reader has authority (principal, office, leader), choose formal expressions. If the reader is close (friend, cousin), informal expressions can be fine. Always aim for kindness and clarity.
Real-life tie-in: When you write to request help or make an apology, your greeting and closing can either build trust or create tension. Appropriate expressions help you build positive relationships.
Mini-summary: Appropriate expressions (greetings, request phrases, and closings) show respect and relationship. Choose formal or informal expressions based on the reader and purpose.
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Which greeting fits a formal letter to a principal?
Show Answer
Examples: “Dear Principal (Name),” or “Dear Principal Reyes,”
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Rewrite this to be more formal: “Hey, can you sign this for me?”
Show Answer
Possible answer: “Good day. Could you please sign this document for me?” or “May I respectfully request your signature on this document?”
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What closing fits an informal letter to a close friend?
Show Answer
Examples: “Take care,” “Best,” “See you soon,” or “Your friend,”
Checkpoint 4: Blending Transitions and Expressions in a Letter Body
Mini-goal: Build a smooth body paragraph that includes clear transitions and a polite tone.
Now you will blend two skills: connecting ideas with transitions and maintaining the right language register with appropriate expressions. Many learners can do these skills separately, but real writing requires them together. A letter body often follows a simple flow: state purpose, give background, provide reasons, then make a request or share feelings. Transitions help the flow, and expressions shape the tone.
Imagine you are writing a formal letter to request permission to join a school activity. If you write: “I want to join. I am interested. I am good at it. Please accept me,” the message is understandable, but it sounds abrupt and childish. Now compare a smoother version: “I am writing to request permission to join the Science Club. First, I have a strong interest in experiments and research. In addition, I have joined our class projects and worked well with my group. Therefore, I respectfully ask for the opportunity to participate in the club’s activities.” The message flows, the tone is respectful, and the request feels reasonable.
A useful drafting trick is to write your paragraph in simple sentences first, then add transitions where needed. Ask: Where do I add another reason? Where do I show cause and effect? Where do I give an example? Then choose transitions that match. After that, revise your expressions: change “I want” to “I would like,” change “Give me” to “Could you please provide,” and adjust greetings/closings as needed.
Guided discussion: Choose one paragraph purpose (request, apology, invitation, thank-you). Then choose two transitions you will use and two polite expressions you will use. This creates a plan before you write. Planning prevents messy paragraphs.
Real-life tie-in: When you write to ask for help, people often judge your message by its tone. Smooth transitions and polite expressions make your request more likely to be accepted because it feels thoughtful and respectful.
Mini-summary: Strong letter paragraphs blend transitions and appropriate expressions. Write simply first, then revise for flow (transitions) and tone (register and polite expressions).
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What transition would best introduce a second reason in a request paragraph?
Show Answer
Examples: “In addition,” “Moreover,” or “Also,”
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Which is more formal: “I want to ask” or “I would like to request”? Why?
Show Answer
“I would like to request” is more formal because it uses a polite structure and sounds respectful, especially in official situations.
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Improve this sentence using a transition: “I missed class. I was sick.”
Show Answer
Possible answers: “I missed class because I was sick.” / “I was sick; therefore, I missed class.”
Checkpoint 5: Revising for Register and Cohesion
Mini-goal: Spot mismatched register and weak cohesion, then revise efficiently.
Good writers revise with purpose. When you revise letters, two common problems appear: mismatched register and weak cohesion. Mismatched register happens when your expressions do not fit the reader. For example, writing “Hey!” to an office worker, or writing “To whom it may concern” to a close friend. Weak cohesion happens when sentences do not connect clearly or when transitions are missing or incorrect.
Use a simple revision scan. First, scan your greeting and closing. Ask: Do they match the relationship? Next, scan your request sentences. Are they polite and clear? Then scan your transitions. Circle every transition you used. Check if each one truly matches the relationship between ideas. For instance, “therefore” shows a result, so it should come after a reason. “However” shows contrast, so it should come before an opposing idea. If you used “however” but you are not contrasting anything, replace it with “in addition” or remove it.
Another helpful strategy is to check paragraph flow using a “reader test.” Cover your first sentence and read the second sentence. Does it still make sense? If not, you may need a transition or a clearer link. Then do the same from sentence to sentence. This test is quick, and it shows you where a reader might get lost.
Also watch for overuse. If every sentence begins with “Moreover” or “In addition,” your letter will sound robotic. You can combine short sentences, use pronouns carefully, or add one strong transition per idea shift. The goal is natural flow, not decoration.
Guided discussion: Choose one paragraph and revise it twice: first for register (expressions), then for cohesion (transitions). Doing it in two passes keeps revision simple and focused.
Real-life tie-in: In real situations, a well-revised letter can help you get permission, solve a problem, or fix a misunderstanding. Revision can change outcomes.
Mini-summary: Revise letters by scanning for register match (expressions) and cohesion (transitions). Check if each transition fits the idea relationship and avoid overuse.
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Why might “therefore” be wrong at the start of a paragraph?
Show Answer
“Therefore” shows a result. If you start with it, the reader may not know what reason it refers to yet. You usually need a cause before a result.
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What is one sign that your register is too informal for a formal letter?
Show Answer
Using slang, casual greetings like “Hey,” emojis, or very direct demands like “Give me…” are signs it may be too informal.
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What is one way to avoid overusing transitions?
Show Answer
Use transitions only when you shift ideas, combine related sentences, and vary sentence structure so not every sentence begins with a transition.
Checkpoint 6: Mini Draft Task — One Message, Two Registers
Mini-goal: Draft the same message in both formal and informal versions using transitions and appropriate expressions.
This checkpoint is your final practice before independent writing. You will write the same basic message twice: one as a formal letter paragraph and one as an informal letter paragraph. This task proves that you can control register and still keep your writing cohesive.
Step 1: Choose a message. Pick one: (a) request permission, (b) explain an absence, (c) invite someone, or (d) apologize. Write the purpose in one sentence. Example: “I want to explain why I missed class and request make-up work.”
Step 2: Draft the formal version. Use a respectful opening expression, at least three transitions (one sequence or addition, one example or cause/effect, one conclusion), and a polite request. Make your sentences complete and clear. Avoid slang. Example transitions you might use: “First,” “because,” “therefore,” “in conclusion.” Keep your tone calm and respectful.
Step 3: Draft the informal version. Keep the same purpose but adjust the expressions. Use a friendly greeting, simpler transitions, and a warm closing. Your transitions can be simpler (“also,” “so,” “but”) as long as the message flows. The tone should match a friend or family member.
Step 4: Compare and reflect. Look at both versions side by side. The content should match, but the wording and expressions should change. If both drafts sound the same, your register control is not strong yet. Revise until each one clearly fits its reader.
Real-life tie-in: In real life, you often share the same message with different people. You may explain an issue to a teacher formally and to a friend informally. Being able to shift register helps you communicate successfully in both situations.
Mini-summary: Writing one message in two registers builds control. Use transitions for flow and appropriate expressions for tone so each draft fits its reader.
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What changed most between your formal and informal versions: greeting, request phrasing, or transitions?
Show Answer
Often the biggest changes are greeting and request phrasing. Transitions may also shift from formal (“therefore”) to simpler (“so”), depending on the reader.
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Name one formal expression you used that you would not use with a close friend.
Show Answer
Examples: “I respectfully request…,” “Thank you for your time and consideration,” “Yours sincerely,”
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What is one transition you used to show cause and effect?
Show Answer
Examples: “because,” “since,” “therefore,” “as a result.”
💡 Example in Action
Study the worked examples. Notice how transitions and expressions work together. Answers are hidden.
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Pick the best transition (sequence)
“____, I would like to explain the reason for my absence. ____ , I will submit the missed activity tomorrow.”Show Answer
Possible answer: “First, I would like to explain the reason for my absence. Next, I will submit the missed activity tomorrow.”
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Shift to formal register
Informal: “Hi Ma’am, I can’t come today. I’m sick.”Show Answer
Formal version: “Good day, Ma’am. I am unable to attend class today because I am not feeling well.”
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Add a respectful request with transitions
Draft: “I missed the quiz. Can I take it tomorrow?”Show Answer
Improved: “Because I was absent during the quiz, I respectfully request permission to take it tomorrow. Thank you for your understanding.”
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Show contrast correctly
Combine: “I studied for the interview. I felt nervous.”Show Answer
Possible answers: “I studied for the interview; however, I still felt nervous.” / “Although I studied for the interview, I still felt nervous.”
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Two closings, two registers
Write one closing line for a formal letter and one for an informal letter.Show Answer
Formal: “Thank you for your time and consideration. Respectfully,”
Informal: “Thanks for reading. Take care,”
📝 Try It Out
Complete the tasks in your notebook. Then check the suggested answers.
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Add a transition: “I want to request permission. I will join the contest.”
Show Answer
Example: “I want to request permission because I will join the contest.”
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Choose the best transition (addition): “I finished my tasks. ____ , I helped my groupmate.”
Show Answer
Possible answers: “In addition,” “Moreover,” “Also.” A simple answer is “In addition,”
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Replace with a more formal expression: “I need your help ASAP.”
Show Answer
Possible answer: “I would appreciate your assistance at your earliest convenience.”
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Replace with a more informal expression: “I respectfully request your immediate response.”
Show Answer
Possible answer: “Can you reply when you can?” or “Let me know when you can.”
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Add an example transition: “Many learners struggle with internet access. ____ , some travel far to find a signal.”
Show Answer
Example: “For example, some travel far to find a signal.”
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Write a formal greeting for a letter to a barangay official.
Show Answer
Example: “Dear Barangay Captain (Name),” or “Dear Sir/Madam,”
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Write an informal greeting for a letter to your cousin.
Show Answer
Example: “Hi Cousin!” / “Hello (Name)!” / “Dear (Name),”
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Combine using cause/effect: “The road was flooded. Classes were suspended.”
Show Answer
Possible answer: “Because the road was flooded, classes were suspended.”
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Write one formal closing line (not the signature yet).
Show Answer
Example: “Thank you for your time and consideration.”
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Draft a 4–5 sentence paragraph for a formal request letter using at least three transitions and one polite request phrase.
Show Answer
Sample (one possible answer): “Good day. I am writing to request permission to attend the district training. First, the training will help me improve my skills in public speaking. In addition, I can share what I learn with my classmates. Therefore, I respectfully ask for your approval to join the activity. Thank you for your kind consideration.”
✅ Check Yourself
Answer the items. Then open the answers to self-check.
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Multiple-choice: Which transition shows contrast?
a) therefore
b) however
c) for example
d) firstShow Answer
b) however
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Multiple-choice: Which transition shows cause?
a) because
b) finally
c) in conclusion
d) moreoverShow Answer
a) because
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Multiple-choice: Which transition introduces an example?
a) on the other hand
b) as a result
c) for instance
d) firstShow Answer
c) for instance
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Short answer: Define transitional devices in your own words.
Show Answer
They are words or phrases that connect ideas and show relationships like order, addition, contrast, cause/effect, and conclusion.
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Multiple-choice: Which greeting fits a formal letter?
a) Hey bro!
b) Yo!
c) Dear Mr. Cruz,
d) Hi bestie!Show Answer
c) Dear Mr. Cruz,
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Multiple-choice: Which closing fits a formal letter?
a) See ya!
b) Respectfully,
c) LOL,
d) Later!Show Answer
b) Respectfully,
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Short answer: Why should you adjust language register in letters?
Show Answer
Because the reader and purpose change. Using the correct register shows respect, builds trust, and helps your message succeed.
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Fill in the blank (addition): “I completed the report. ____ , I checked the grammar.”
Show Answer
Possible answers: “In addition,” “Also,” “Moreover.”
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Fill in the blank (result): “The rain was heavy; ____ , the event was postponed.”
Show Answer
Possible answers: “therefore,” “as a result,”
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Identify the problem: “Dear Sir/Madam, What’s up? I need this now.”
Show Answer
The greeting is formal but the body is too informal and demanding. The register is inconsistent and disrespectful for a formal letter.
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Rewrite to be more formal: “Can you give me the form?”
Show Answer
Possible answer: “Could you please provide me with the form?”
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Rewrite to be more informal: “I respectfully request your immediate feedback.”
Show Answer
Possible answer: “Can you tell me what you think when you can?”
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Multiple-choice: Which option best shows sequence?
a) however
b) first
c) therefore
d) for exampleShow Answer
b) first
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Short answer: Give one way to avoid overusing transitions.
Show Answer
Use transitions only when ideas shift, combine related sentences, and vary sentence structure instead of starting every sentence with a transition.
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Mini-task: Write a 2–3 sentence closing for a formal request letter using one conclusion transition.
Show Answer
Sample: “In conclusion, I hope you will consider my request. Thank you for your time and consideration. Respectfully,”
🚀 Go Further
Try these extensions if you want more challenge or deeper practice.
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Create a “transition bank” in your notebook with at least 30 transitions grouped by purpose.
Show Answer
Teacher guidance: Ask learners to group transitions by function (sequence, addition, contrast, example, cause/effect, conclusion) and add one example sentence per group.
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Write the same request letter in two versions: one to a principal (formal) and one to a friend (informal).
Show Answer
Teacher guidance: Check that content stays similar but expressions shift (greeting, request phrases, transitions, and closing). Use peer review to spot register mismatches.
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Find three transitions you overuse and replace them with alternatives in your draft.
Show Answer
Teacher guidance: Encourage variety without forcing uncommon words. Clear and accurate transitions are more important than difficult vocabulary.
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Create a short “cohesion test”: remove transitions from a paragraph, then rewrite it by adding better ones.
Show Answer
Teacher guidance: Focus on whether the added transitions match meaning relationships; discuss why certain transitions change meaning.
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Draft a formal letter that includes one paragraph of contrast (a “problem vs solution” paragraph) using at least three contrast transitions.
Show Answer
Teacher guidance: Support learners in forming “Although/However/On the other hand” structures correctly and keeping the tone respectful.
🔗 My Reflection
Notebook task: Write 8–10 sentences.
- Which transitions helped your letter sound clearer, and why?
- Which expressions did you change to match formal or informal register?
- What is one situation this week where you might need to write a letter, and how will you make it cohesive and appropriate?
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