MODULE 1: Understanding Text as Connected Discourse

Subject: Reading and Writing Skills

Grade Level: Senior High School
Semester: 2nd Semester

Introduction
Greetings students to the thrilling pathways of methods for choosing and arranging
information. Are you thrilled about what’s included in this new lesson?
Nowadays, we are inundated with an abundance of information from books,
newspapers,
magazines, and the web. We must also devise efficient methods for handling the
information we
collected. Therefore, a key component of effective reading and writing is our capacity to
produce, choose, and structure ideas. These can be achieved through brainstorming,
creating a
graphic organizer, outlining, and several other methods.
In this module, you will explore an in-depth examination of methods for choosing and
arranging
information. The exercises will aid you in grasping the methods, which will ultimately
assist you
in utilizing these different approaches in your writing

What I Need to know

By the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
• Define text and discourse.
• Describe text as connected discourse
• Differentiate text and discourse
What I Know
Pre-Test
Activity 1: Fill in the Blanks
Directions: Read each statement carefully and fill in the blanks with the correct word
or phrase that best completes the sentence.
1. A text is a ________ unit of language used for communication.
2. 2. It is considered connected discourse when its sentences and ideas are ________
and logically linked.
3. The two main properties of a well-formed text are ________ and coherence.
4. ________ refers to the use of linguistic elements such as pronouns, conjunctions,
and transitions to connect ideas smoothly.
5. Coherence ensures that the text makes ________ sense and is easy to understand.
6. A text can be spoken or written and may take forms such as narratives, ________,
and arguments.
7. The relationship between sentences and ideas is maintained through ________
devices like repetition, synonyms, and parallel structure.
8. In discourse analysis, ________ refers to the way texts achieve their purpose in
communication.
9. A well-structured text should follow a clear ________, whether chronological, cause-
effect, or problem-solution.
10. The study of text as connected discourse helps in improving reading comprehension
and ________ skills.

What’s In
TEXT DISCOURSE

a text is anything that conveys a set Discourse comes from the

of meanings to the person who Latin discursus, which means “a
examines it. You might have thought running about.” This illustrates the
that texts were limited to written basic idea of relaying information
materials, such as books, magazines, through the natural rhythm and flow
newspapers, and ‘zines (an informal of language.
term for magazine that refers
especially to fanzines and webzines).

TEXT AS CONNECTED DISCOURSE:

Text becomes a connected discourse when it is discussed two or more
people in a spoken conversation. As such, 1 scope of analysis covers not
only the study of grammati... cohesion and structure of sentences in the
text itself, but it also covers the study of the agents, social purpose and
medium of the text as a connected discourse.
Thus, it promotes communication and interaction among different people
and sharing of information and ideas for personal, academic, or
professional purposes.
 TEXT DISCOURSE

A written form of communication A spoken, written, visual or audial

information, which is a non- form, communicating information
interactive nature. that is interactive in nature

Agent is not crucial Agent is crucial

Non-interactive in nature Interactive in nature

Grammatical cohesion and structure Agents involved in the

of sentences are analyzed communication, the social purpose
and the medium utilized are
analyzed.
Usually in written form Can be either in written, verbal,
visual or audio form
Example: press reports, street signs, Example: dialogues, conversations,
document, etc interaction in audio-visual
programmes, etc.

What’s New
Activity 2:
Directions: Spot the Difference, Compare the two passages below and answer the
following questions:

Passage A: "Lisa loves reading books. She enjoys mysteries the most. The sun is
bright today. Reading makes her happy."
Passage B: "Lisa loves reading books, especially mysteries. She finds them exciting
and engaging. On bright, sunny days, she enjoys sitting outside with a good book."
 Questions:
1. Which passage is easier to understand? Why?
2. How does Passage B connect ideas more effectively?

What Is It
Text as connected discourse refers to language that is structured and meaningful. It
goes beyond individual sentences, linking ideas through cohesion (linguistic elements
like pronouns, conjunctions, and repetition) and coherence (logical flow and
organization).
Characteristics of Text as connected Discourse


 Coherence and Cohesion  A connected discourse exhibits both

coherence (ideas logically flow and
make sense) and cohesion
(sentences and paragraphs are
linked together).
 Logical Organization  Ideas are arranged in a structured
manner, often with a clear
introduction, body paragraphs, and
conclusion, to present information in
a logical and easy-to-follow manner.
 Transitional Words and Phrases  These words and phrases (e.g.,
"however," "therefore," "in addition,"
"similarly") help connect ideas and
show the relationship between
sentences and paragraphs,
enhancing the flow and readability
of the text.
 Purpose and Context  A connected discourse typically
serves a specific purpose, whether
it's to inform, persuade, or entertain,
and is often written with a particular
audience and context in mind.
 Grammatical correctness  The text should be free from
grammatical errors and use
 appropriate language for the
intended purpose and audience.
 Unity  All parts of the text contribute to the
overall meaning and purpose,
creating a sense of wholeness and
completeness.
 Interconnectedness  Sentences and paragraphs are not
isolated but rather build upon each
other, creating a unified and
meaningful whole.
 Use of language  The language used should be clear,
concise, and appropriate for the
topic and audience.
 Structure  The text may have headings,
subheadings, and other
organizational elements to guide
the reader.

Examples of Text as connected discourse:

 News Articles: News articles present information in a structured and logical manner,
using transitions and connections to build a narrative.
 Essays: Essays often use a clear thesis statement, supporting paragraphs, and a
conclusion to create a cohesive argument.
 Narratives: Narratives use storytelling techniques to create a sense of flow and
connection between events.
 Instructions or Procedures: Instructions and procedures use clear, concise
language and logical steps to guide the reader.
 Position Papers: Position papers present a viewpoint on a topic, using evidence and
reasoning to support the argument.
.

What’s More
Activity 3: Cohesion Hunt:
Directions: Read the paragraph below and underline or highlight words that create
cohesion (e.g., pronouns, conjunctions, or repeated words).
 "Jake loves basketball. He plays every afternoon with his friends. They enjoy practicing
together because it helps them improve their skills. Since their last game, they have
been training harder."

What I Have Learned

Directions: Complete the following statements:
1. A text is considered connected discourse when _____________.
2. Cohesion in a text is achieved through the use of _____________.
3. Coherence refers to how well the ideas in a text _____________.
4. One way to maintain logical flow in discourse is by using _____________.
5. Pronouns and conjunctions help connect ideas by _____________.

What I Can Do
Activity 4: Cohesion Devices Scavenger Hunt
Directions: Identify and insert appropriate cohesion devices in the given text to improve
coherence.
Instructions:
Task 1: Read the text below carefully. Some linking words and phrases are missing.
Task 2: Fill in the blanks with the most suitable cohesion devices (e.g., "because,"
"therefore," "however," "for example," etc.).
Task 3: After filling in the blanks, identify the type of cohesion device you used
(contrast, cause and effect, addition, etc.).
Text with Missing Devices:
Sarah wanted to visit the museum. She had heard that there was an interesting
exhibition on ancient artifacts. _________, she decided to go on Saturday. ________,
the weather was perfect for a walk, and she could enjoy the outdoors as well. She took
a bus to the museum, ________ she didn’t want to drive and risk getting lost in the city.
________, she was excited to learn more about ancient history, especially about the
Egyptian mummies. _______, the museum was closed for renovations, so she had to
reschedule her visit.
ASSESSMENT
Directions: Read each question carefully and choose the best answer.
1. What is the main purpose of connected discourse?
a) To confuse the reader
b) To create a logical flow of ideas
c) To use as many words as possible
d) To write random sentences
2. Which of the following is an example of a cohesive device?
a) Running fast
b) However, therefore, in addition
c) A large house
d) Reading books
3. What makes a text coherent?
a) Unrelated sentences
b) Logical sequence of ideas
c) The use of complicated words
d) Random placement of information
4. What is an important element of cohesion in writing?
a) Using consistent pronouns and linking words
b) Writing in different tenses randomly
c) Avoiding transition words
d) Changing topics frequently
5. Which of the following sentences is the best example of coherence?
a) I like ice cream. My friend is tall. Dogs are cute.
b) The sun is bright. It helps plants grow. Photosynthesis is important for plants.
c) School is fun. I eat pizza on weekends. Cars are expensive.
d) I love reading. Chocolate is tasty. People sleep at night.
6. Which transition word shows contrast?
a) In addition b) Because c) However d) Therefore
7. Which sentence contains proper cohesion?
a) I love basketball. He is my best friend. The game was exciting.
b) My brother likes to cook. He prepares dinner every night. His meals are delicious.
c) The car is red. The dog is barking. The sun is hot.
d) She sings beautifully. The flowers are blooming. We went shopping.
8. Which sentence does NOT use a transition word correctly?
a) I wanted to go to the park. However, it started raining.
b) She studied hard for the test. As a result, she passed with high a score.
c) He likes pizza. In contrast, he enjoys playing basketball.
d) We went to the mall. Then, we watched a movie.
9. Why is repetition of key ideas important in connected discourse?
a) To make the text longer
b) To confuse the reader
c) To reinforce the main idea
d) To avoid using pronouns
10. What should you use to make sure your sentences are linked properly?
a) Cohesive devices like pronouns and transition words
b) Unrelated facts and ideas
c) Random punctuation marks
d) A completely new topic in every sentence
Directions: Read each question 3carefully and choose the best answer.

Additional Activities
Activity 5: Real-World Example
Find a short news article or blog post. Identify and list at least five cohesive devices
used (e.g., pronouns, conjunctions, repeated words) and explain how they help connect
the ideas.
 Lesson 2: Deepening Understanding of Connected Discourse

What I Know

Pre- Test
Instructions: Answer the following questions according to the given directions.
A. Modified True or False
Directions: Write TRUE if the statement is correct. If FALSE, underline the incorrect
word and write the correct term.
__________1. Cohesion refers to the logical flow of ideas in discourse, ensuring that the
message is clearly understood.
__________2. Discourse markers such as "however" and "therefore" help improve the flow
of ideas in connected discourse.
__________3. A paragraph achieves unity when it contains multiple unrelated ideas in
different sentences.
__________4. In spoken discourse, pauses and intonation play no role in clarifying
meaning.
__________5. Connected discourse is important only in written communication and does
not apply to spoken language.
B. Fill in the Blanks
6. ________ and ________ are two essential features of connected discourse that
ensure coherence and logical flow.
7. Words like "in addition," "on the other hand," and "therefore" are called ________
because they help connect ideas smoothly.
8. A well-structured paragraph consists of a ________ sentence, supporting details, and
a concluding sentence.
9. The use of pronouns, synonyms, and repetition of key ideas helps establish
________ in a text.
10. In spoken discourse, ________ and ________ help convey the speaker’s intent and
make the message clearer.

What’s In
Now that we've explored how texts connect ideas to form meaningful communication
through connected discourse, let's apply these concepts specifically to different types of
writing. Each writing style requires distinct strategies to achieve coherence and
cohesion in its communication.
 Components of connected discourse: These topics are central to analyzing how
language functions to convey meaning, maintain coherence, and facilitate
understanding in extended communication.

* Coherence and Cohesion – Understanding logical flow and connectors in discourse.

* Discourse Markers – Exploring transition words, pronouns, and reference devices.
* Implicit Meaning and Inference – Identifying unstated ideas in conversations and texts.
* Context and Register – Analyzing how tone, formality, and audience affect meaning.
* Types of Connected Discourse – Studying narratives, arguments, explanations, and
descriptions.
* Listening and Reading Strategies – Developing skills to process extended discourse
effectively.

Types of Connected Discourse:

Expository Writing (Informative)
Expository writing seeks to explain, inform, or describe a subject. It requires clear and
logical connections between ideas to ensure the reader understands the information
being presented. Cohesion: To maintain cohesion, an expository text will use
transitional phrases (e.g., "for example," "as a result," "in addition") to connect ideas and
guide the reader through the argument or explanation.
Coherence: The ideas should flow logically, from one point to the next. For instance, a
report on the effects of deforestation might begin with an introduction to the issue,
followed by detailed sections on environmental, social, and economic impacts, each
building on the previous one. Connected Discourse Example: "Deforestation has a
profound impact on biodiversity. In addition, it contributes significantly to climate
change. For instance, trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere."
Narrative Writing (Storytelling)
In narrative writing, connected discourse ensures that events, characters, and settings
are coherently presented, so the reader can follow the story effortlessly.
Cohesion: In narratives, pronouns, conjunctions, and time markers (e.g., "then," "later,"
"afterward") are used to link ideas. These help establish relationships between
characters and events, ensuring the plot unfolds smoothly.
Coherence: Narratives should maintain a clear sequence of events, often using a
structured format (e.g., introduction, conflict, climax, resolution) that connects each part
 of the story. Connected Discourse Example: "Maria looked out the window. Suddenly,
she saw a figure in the distance. Her heart raced as she realized it was the person she
had been waiting for. Without hesitation, she ran toward the gate."
Descriptive Writing
In descriptive writing, the goal is to paint a vivid picture, and connected discourse helps
guide the reader through the details in a logical and immersive way.
Cohesion: Descriptive writing often uses spatial and temporal transitions (e.g., "to the
left," "next," "beyond the horizon") to guide the reader’s attention from one detail to the
next.
Coherence: The description should follow a clear pattern, whether from general to
specific details or moving through a scene in a systematic manner (e.g., top to bottom,
left to right). Connected Discourse Example: "The room was dimly lit. On the left side,
an old wooden desk sat covered in dust. Next to it, a chair was slightly tilted, as if
someone had just left in a hurry."
Persuasive Writing
Persuasive writing aims to convince the reader of a particular point of view, and
connected discourse is essential to construct a logical, compelling argument.
Cohesion: Transitions like "therefore," "as a result," and "in contrast" help to link points
and ensure the argument progresses in a structured way.
Coherence: Each argument and piece of evidence should be connected logically,
building up to the final persuasive appeal. The writer may also address and refute
counterarguments to strengthen their position. Connected Discourse Example:
"Recycling is crucial for the environment. Not only does it reduce waste, but it also
conserves natural resources. For instance, recycling paper helps reduce deforestation."
Creative Writing (Poetry, Fiction)
Creative writing is about expression and imagination, but connected discourse is still
necessary to ensure the reader is engaged and the flow of ideas, feelings, and events is
clear.
Cohesion: Even in creative writing, cohesion is maintained through the use of words
and phrases that link parts of the narrative or poem (e.g., repetition, imagery,
alliteration).
Coherence: While creative writing may experiment with form, tone, and structure, there
still needs to be an underlying logical progression that readers can follow. Connected
Discourse Example: "The moonlight bathed the forest in silver. Every shadow seemed
to whisper, and the trees swayed gently, their branches reaching for the sky.
Somewhere in the distance, a wolf howled, adding to the eerie symphony."
Technical Writing
In technical writing, clarity and precision are paramount, and connected discourse
ensures that instructions, explanations, or data are presented logically and
understandably.
Cohesion: Technical writing uses clear, direct language and transitions such as "next,"
"then," and "finally" to ensure readers can follow steps or understand complex systems.
Coherence: Information is typically presented in a clear, structured format—whether it's
a process, a set of instructions, or a description of a system. Connected Discourse
Example: "To set up the printer, first, plug the power cable into the back of the device.
Next, turn on the printer using the power button on the side. Finally, connect the printer
to your computer via the USB cable."
Argumentative Writing
Argumentative writing involves presenting a claim supported by evidence, and
connected discourse is essential for structuring the argument in a way that is logical and
persuasive.
Cohesion: Writers use transitional phrases such as "on the other hand," "for example,"
and "in conclusion" to connect different points and guide the reader through the
argument.
Coherence: The argument must be structured logically, with each paragraph or section
providing supporting evidence for the claim, and the writer must address opposing
views. Connected Discourse Example: "The use of renewable energy is not only
environmentally responsible but also economically beneficial. For example, countries
that have invested in solar and wind energy have seen a decrease in energy costs. In
contrast, relying on fossil fuels often results in volatile prices and environmental
degradation."
Academic Writing
In academic writing, connected discourse is crucial for ensuring that complex ideas and
research findings are presented in a structured, easy-to-understand manner.
Cohesion: Academic writing often uses academic connectors such as "therefore," "in
conclusion," "for instance," and "however" to link ideas and evidence.
Coherence: Each section of an academic paper (e.g., introduction, literature review,
methodology, results, discussion) should be logically organized, and ideas should build
on each other. Connected Discourse Example: "The role of technology in education has
been widely discussed. Research indicates, however, that while technology can
enhance learning, it must be used appropriately. For example, studies show that
interactive tools can improve engagement when integrated into classroom teaching."
What’s New
Activity 6
Directions: Rearrange the Sentences. The sentences below are jumbled. Rewrite them
in a logical order to form a coherent paragraph.

1. The sun was setting, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink.
2. Emma decided to take a walk in the park.
3. As she walked, she listened to the birds singing.
4. It was a peaceful way to end her day.

What Is It
A well-connected text has a clear structure, logical flow, and links between ideas. This is
essential in essays, reports, and even daily conversations.

What’s More
Activity 7:
Directions: In a ½ sheet of paper, Fix the Paragraph. The paragraph below lacks
proper cohesion and coherence. Rewrite it to improve it’s flow and connections.

"Tom woke up late. He ate breakfast. His shoes were missing. He ran to school.
He was nervous about the test."

What I Have Learned

Directions: Summarize the key points by completing the statement:

1. Connected discourse is important in communication because _____________.

2. A well-structured discourse maintains coherence by _____________.
3. One way to ensure cohesion in a text is by using _____________.
4. Logical organization in discourse helps readers _____________.
5.To make a text connected, I should use ____________."

What I Can Do
Activity 8:. Write and Connect

Directions: In a 1 whole sheet of paper, Write a short personal experience (5-6

sentences), and use a transition words like however, therefore, because, after that,
and in addition to make it coherent and cohesive.

Example of a short personal experience

My First Time Cooking Alone I have always wanted to cook a full meal by myself.
However, I had never tried it before because I was afraid of making mistakes.
Therefore, I decided to start with something simple pasta. Because I followed the recipe
carefully, everything was going well at first. After that, I accidentally added too much
salt, making the sauce too salty. In addition, I forgot to check the pasta, so it became
overcooked. In the end, the meal was not perfect, but I learned valuable lessons for
next time!

Assessment

Multiple Choice: Choose the best answer.

1. What ensures logical flow in a text?
a) Random ideas
b) Coherence
c) Unrelated sentences
d) Isolated phrases
2. Which of the following is an example of cohesion?
a) Using transition words like “however” and “therefore”
b) Adding random ideas
c) Writing unrelated sentences
d) Ignoring logical flow
3. Which of the following best defines coherence?
a) The logical connection between ideas in a text
b) The use of correct punctuation
c) The length of a paragraph
d) The number of words used
4. Which sentence best demonstrates cohesion?
a) "She loves music. The sky is blue. Running is fun."
b) "She loves music because it helps her relax."
c) "The book is interesting. The dog barked. I like pizza."
d) "School starts at 8 AM. It is cold outside. The door is locked."
5. Which of the following is an example of a cohesive device?
a) "However"
b) "Apple"
c) "Jumping"
d) "Laptop"
6. What is the primary goal of cohesion in discourse?
a) To add more words
b) To create smooth transitions between sentences
c) To confuse the reader
d) To use complex vocabulary
7. Which of the following can improve coherence in a text?
a) Organizing ideas logically
b) Using unrelated sentences
c) Avoiding transitions
d) Writing in a random order
8. What is the relationship between cohesion and coherence?
a) They are the same thing
b) Cohesion focuses on word connections, while coherence focuses on logical flow
c) Cohesion is more important than coherence
d) Coherence is only needed in academic writing
9. What role do pronouns play in cohesion?
a) They link sentences by referring to previously mentioned nouns
b) They add more words to a sentence
c) They make sentences unrelated
d) They change the meaning of a text
10. Why is connected discourse important in communication?
a) It helps people understand ideas more clearly
b) It makes writing more difficult
c) It is only used in books
d) It confuses the reader

Additional Activities

Activity 9: Text Analysis

Directions: Choose a short story or essay and highlight the words, phrases, or
techniques used to maintain cohesion and coherence.

Answer Keys:
Assessment

Lesson 1 Lesson 2

1. B 1. B - Coherence
2. B 2. A - Using transition words like “however”
3. B and “therefore”
4. A 3. A - The logical connection between
5. B ideas in a text
6. C 4. B - “She loves music because it helps
7. B her relax
8. C 5. A - However
9. C 6. B - To create smooth transitions
10. A between sentences
7. A - Organizing ideas logically
8. B - Cohesion focuses on word
connections, while coherence focuses on
logical flow
9. A - They link sentences by referring to
previously mentioned nouns
10. A - It helps people understand ideas
more clearly

References

Halliday, M.A.K., & Hasan, R. (1976).

Cohesion in English.
Gee, J.P. (2014). An Introduction to Discourse Analysis: Theory and
Method.
Brown, G., & Yule, G. (1983). Discourse Analysis.
Tennen, D. (2007). Talking Voices:
Repetition, Dialogue, and Imagery in Conversational Discourse.
Cook, G. (1990). Discourse.