Connectives in Action: Conjunctions and Prepositions in the Construction of Cohesive Texts

Objectives

1. Identify and classify the main conjunctions and prepositions used as connectors in texts.

2. Understand the function and use of conjunctions and prepositions for textual cohesion.

3. Apply conjunctions and prepositions correctly in practical exercises and market situations.

Contextualization

Connectives, such as conjunctions and prepositions, are essential for constructing cohesive and clear texts. They function as 'bridges' that link ideas within a text, facilitating comprehension and the flow of reading. Imagine trying to understand a text without these elements: the sentences would seem fragmented and disconnected. Knowing and using these connectives correctly is fundamental not only for academic success but also for effective communication in the job market, where clarity and precision are highly valued. For example, in areas like marketing and advertising, the precise choice of conjunctions and prepositions can alter the impact of an advertising message, directly influencing consumer behavior.

Relevance of the Theme

In the corporate environment, the ability to write emails, reports, and documents with textual cohesion can be a competitive advantage. Professionals who master the use of connectives can convey their ideas more clearly and persuasively. Furthermore, understanding and applying these elements is crucial to avoid misunderstandings and ensure accuracy in communication, skills highly valued in today's scenario.

Conjunctions

Conjunctions are words that link clauses or terms of the same function within a clause. They are essential for creating cohesion and logic in texts, allowing ideas to be connected clearly and fluently.

• Definition: Words that link clauses or equivalent terms.

• Types: Coordinating and subordinating, each with specific functions.

• Function: Create cohesion and logic in texts.

Prepositions

Prepositions are words that introduce a term, relating it to another term in the clause. They are fundamental for establishing relationships of meaning between words, such as time, place, cause, manner, among others.

• Definition: Words that introduce a term, relating it to another.

• Meaning Relationships: Time, place, cause, manner, etc.

• Function: Establish relationships of meaning between words.

Differences between Conjunctions and Prepositions

Although both serve as connectives, conjunctions and prepositions have distinct functions. Conjunctions link clauses or terms of the same function, while prepositions introduce terms, relating them to others.

• Conjunctions: Link clauses or terms of the same function.

• Prepositions: Introduce terms and establish relationships of meaning.

• Importance: Each has a specific role in structuring the text.

Practical Applications

• Writing professional emails: Use of connectives for clarity and cohesion.
• Producing reports: Application of conjunctions and prepositions to organize information.
• Marketing and Advertising: Precise choice of connectives to influence consumer perception.

Key Terms

• Conjunctions: Words that link clauses or terms of the same function.

• Prepositions: Words that introduce a term, relating it to another.

• Textual Cohesion: Clarity and fluency in linking ideas in a text.

Questions

• How can the correct choice of connectives influence the clarity of a text?

• In what situations in the job market is textual cohesion crucial?

• What challenges did you encounter when trying to construct a cohesive text?

Conclusion

To Reflect

Connectives, especially conjunctions and prepositions, play a crucial role in constructing cohesive and clear texts. The ability to use them correctly not only improves the quality of writing but also enhances communication in various professional areas. By mastering these linguistic tools, you will be able to construct more coherent and effective messages, whether writing emails, reports, or advertising campaigns. Reflect on how connectives facilitate the understanding of your ideas and consider the importance of choosing the most appropriate terms for each context.

Mini Challenge - Cohesive Rewriting Challenge

Rewrite a paragraph using conjunctions and prepositions to improve textual cohesion.

• Choose a paragraph from a text you wrote recently or provided by the teacher.
• Identify the sentences or clauses that can be better connected using conjunctions and prepositions.
• Rewrite the paragraph, inserting the appropriate connectives to improve the cohesion and clarity of the text.
• Compare the original version with the rewritten one and reflect on the changes in the flow and understanding of the text.