Linking ideas: connectives and cohesion · Year 5

Cohesion is what makes a text flow, so the sentences and paragraphs link together. Connectives (however, therefore, firstly, for example) show how one idea relates to the next. Pronouns and other words that refer back (it, they, this, there) link ideas without repeating the same words.

Key facts

  • Adding an idea: also, in addition, furthermore, moreover.
  • Contrast: however, on the other hand, nevertheless. Result: therefore, as a result, consequently.
  • Order: firstly, next, then, finally. Example: for example, for instance.
  • At the start of a sentence, a connective is followed by a comma: However, most of the class passed.
  • Referring back: The museum opened in 1990. It has 300 paintings. It means the museum, so the writer doesn't repeat it.

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