General English Level 6 V 3
UNIT 01 Eat up! TOPIC 02 Food trends
LANGUAGE FOCUS 05 Linking sentences
In this activity you will learn about linking words of addition, contrast, cause and effect.

Read this paragraph.

For many American adults, winter is the season when their eating habits are most unhealthy. The winter period includes important festivals such as Christmas and Thanksgiving. According to the results from a national survey, more than half of all respondents said they tend to eat and drink more during the winter holiday season. Also, 54% of people report that the type of food they eat during winter is more fattening than the food that they eat during other seasons. Consequently , 51% of people who had gained weight over the year, gained the most weight over winter. Nevertheless , this could all change in the future. At least 55% of respondents said they would be prepared to make their favourite holiday dishes less fattening.

Also, consequently and nevertheless are examples of linking words (sometimes called linking adjuncts).

We use linking words to show the connection between the ideas in one sentence and the ideas in another sentence. Here are some of the most common types of linking words.

1. Linking words of addition

To introduce additional (or more) information we use linking words (or expressions) of addition.

also besides that besides
furthermore in addition to additionally
what is more moreover as well
too on top of that


Examples

Chefs know that in today's busy world, time is all-important for most people. Furthermore, they realise that people want a wide variety of food reflecting cuisines from all over the world.

Eating fatty foods is bad for your heart. In addition, it causes high cholesterol levels.

Sushi is cheap and convenient to eat. Besides that, it is very healthy.

I love Thai food. I love Japanese food, too.

2. Linking words of contrast

To introduce information which contrasts with information that has come before, we use linking words of contrast.

however even so on the contrary
nonetheless by contrast in contrast
yet in spite of still
instead on the other hand nevertheless
alternatively


Examples

Traditionally in Western cultures we have always eaten with a knife and fork. However, these days we do not use a knife and fork for almost 75% of food we eat.

I love eating spicy food. My husband, on the other hand , can't stand it.

Families always used to sit down together to eat at the table. In contrast, many families today eat in front of the television.

3. Linking words of cause and effect

To introduce something that is the result something mentioned in a previous sentence, we use linking words of cause and effect.

as a result because of this thus
as a consequence thereby accordingly
so therefore hence
consequently


Examples

As a result of the growing popularity of eating on the run, restaurants are providing Americans with more of their breakfast meals.

Consumers are demanding more convenient ways to do their shopping. Consequently, many companies and supermarket chains now offer their products on line.

People lead busier lives these days. Therefore, our eating habits have changed.

Rental prices are rising. As a consequence, young people are living at home with their parents for longer.

The world is becoming increasingly globalised. Because of this, we are exposed to cuisine from all over the world.

Now go to 06 PRACTICE Make your own paragraph.