A new worksheet for B2+ students to help them add more cohesion to their writing through the use of formal linkers and connectors. Download the handout and key below:

Lead students through the worksheet. Encourage creativity in the final activity. Set students an FCE or CAE part 1 essay for homework.

Label the groups of linkers (A, B, C, D) with the titles in the box based on their function.

REASON       ADDITION      CONTRAST/CONCESSION      CONDITIONALS

1. ____________________
2. One of the main benefits of research into green energy is the impact it can have on the environment. Furthermore, by switching to renewable energy sources, we can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels such as oil.
3. The project failed to live up to the expectations of the management team. What is more, it was €100,000 over budget.
4. Construction of the solar farm was finished on time. Moreover, workers were able to increase power output by 15% in the first month.
5. ____________________
6. Many parts of the world are being ravaged by extreme weather conditions due to/owing to the impact of climate change.
7. Emissions of harmful greenhouse gases have increased owing to/due to the fact that the world’s population keeps growing.
8. Further research is needed in order to push the boundaries of our scientific knowledge.
9. Governments should provide more funding for green energy projects so as to increase their efficiency.
10. More charging stations for electric cars should be installed so that there are enough to meet demand.
11. ____________________
12. Space exploration is undoubtedly an exciting area of research. Even so, is it really the most pressing issue humankind is facing right now?
13. In spite of/Despite recent technological advancements we have seen, we still know very little about the universe.
14. In spite of/Despite the fact that time is running out, we must not give up and accept our fate.
15. Much progress has been made in this field. Nevertheless, there is still a lot to be done.
16. ____________________
17. Unless we take steps to combat climate change now, we may be too late.
18. Even if we manage to reduce emissions considerably, there is no guarantee that it will be enough.
19. We are still not sure whether or not we are alone in the universe.

Sentence Structure Rules

Group A:

• What do you notice about the way all 4 linkers are used?

Group B:

Look at the sentences and choose the correct alternative:

1. Due to/owing to + a noun // a clause (subject + verb + object)
2. Due to/owing to the fact that + a noun // a clause (subject + verb + object)
3. In order to + a verb // a clause
4. So as to + a verb // a clause
5. So that + a verb // a clause

Group C

• What do “even so” and “nevertheless” have in common?

Look at the sentences and choose the correct alternative:

1. In spite of/Despite + a noun // a clause (subject + verb + object)
2. In spite of/Despite the fact that + a noun // a clause (subject + verb + object)

Group D

Look at the linkers in group D and match them to their meaning

1. “it doesn’t matter if”
2. “If we don’t”
3. “If or not”

Practice

Complete the sentences with a linker from the previous exercise, more than one answer might be possible.

1. They brought in extra seats …………. everyone could sit down.
2. ………… you were the only man in the world, I still wouldn’t go out with you.
3. They planted trees in the garden …………… attract more wildlife.
4. His CV is impressive. ………….., I’m still not sure if he’s the right candidate.
5. …………. all their hard work, they weren’t able to complete the project on time.
6. I was unable to attend the meeting ……………. the heavy snowfall.
7. Many people have chosen to move out of the city ……………….. house prices have fallen in the countryside.
8. One benefit of city life is the superior health facilities. ……………….., there are many more job opportunities.
9. It seems like a very tempting offer. ……………….., I feel I must reject it.
10. ……………….. we run, we’re going to miss the last train.
11. I’m still not sure ……………….. we made the right decision.
12. He cancelled all his morning appointments ……………….. spend time with his family.

Creative Practice

Use linkers to upgrade these sentences for use in a C1 essay. You can also upgrade the language in the sentences.

1. Shopping in shops is good, but shopping online is better.
2. We should build more parks because they’re good for people.
3. People got sad because the pandemic was bad.
4. It doesn’t matter if you recycle, big companies are bad for the planet.
5. There are too many cars, that’s why there’s lots of pollution.
6. We should make drivers pay more to make them take the bus.
7. Veganism is good but I don’t think I could do it.
8. Books are good because they help you learn words and you imagine things.