Coordination | Traditional Summary
Contextualization
In the Portuguese language, sentences can be connected in different ways to form compound periods. One of these connection methods is coordination, where sentences join without one depending on the other. In this type of structure, each sentence is syntactically independent, which means they do not have subordinate relationships among themselves. This characteristic allows for the construction of richer and more varied texts, enabling the expression of ideas in a more fluid and cohesive manner.
Coordinated sentences are fundamental not only in formal writing but also in everyday communication. For example, when we say ‘I’m going to the market and then I will make dinner’, we are using two coordinated sentences. Coordination helps to organize information and facilitates the understanding of the ideas presented. By mastering this concept, students will be able to improve their writing and interpretation skills, becoming more effective communicators.
Concept of Coordinated Sentence
Coordinated sentences are those that, within a compound period, are syntactically independent, meaning there is no subordinate relationship between them. In other words, each sentence is capable of standing alone, without the need for another sentence to complete its meaning. This independence is one of the main differentiators of coordinated sentences in relation to subordinate ones, which depend on a main sentence to make sense.
Coordinated sentences are connected by coordinating conjunctions, which serve to link the sentences in such a way that the overall message of the compound period is clear and cohesive. These conjunctions are specific words that indicate the logical relationship between the sentences, such as addition, contrast, alternation, conclusion, or explanation.
It is important to note that, even though they are independent of each other, coordinated sentences contribute to the construction of a larger and more complex idea. This union of independent sentences allows the writer or speaker to organize their ideas in a more structured way, facilitating the understanding of the reader or listener.
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Coordinated sentences are syntactically independent.
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Linked by coordinating conjunctions.
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Contribute to the construction of more complex and cohesive ideas.
Types of Coordinated Sentences
There are five main types of coordinated sentences: additive, adversative, alternative, conclusive, and explanatory. Each type serves a specific function and uses its own conjunctions to establish the relationship between the sentences.
Additive coordinated sentences express an idea of addition, using conjunctions like 'and', 'nor', 'not only... but also'. These sentences add information, highlighting a continuity or sum of actions. For example: 'He studied for the test and did all the exercises'.
Adversative coordinated sentences express an idea of contrast or opposition. The most common conjunctions are 'but', 'however', 'nevertheless', 'nonetheless', 'on the other hand'. They indicate that the second sentence presents an idea contrary to the first. An example would be: 'He studied hard, but he couldn’t pass the exam'.
Alternative coordinated sentences indicate a choice or alternation between actions. They use conjunctions like 'or', 'either... or', 'sometimes... sometimes'. These sentences show different possibilities or alternative conditions. Example: 'Either you study now, or you will have difficulties in the future'.
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Five main types: additive, adversative, alternative, conclusive, and explanatory.
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Each type has a specific function.
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Uses its own conjunctions to establish the relationship between the sentences.
Coordinating Conjunctions
Coordinating conjunctions are essential for the connection between coordinated sentences. They indicate the logical relationship between the actions or ideas expressed in the sentences. Each type of coordinated sentence has specific conjunctions that help define the nature of the established relationship.
Additive conjunctions, like 'and', 'nor', 'not only... but also', indicate addition or summation of ideas. They are used to add information that complements the previous sentence, maintaining a logical and cohesive sequence.
Adversative conjunctions, like 'but', 'however', 'nevertheless', 'nonetheless', 'on the other hand', indicate opposition or contrast between ideas. They are used when one wishes to show a contradiction or present an idea that counteracts what was previously stated.
Alternative conjunctions, like 'or', 'either... or', 'sometimes... sometimes', indicate choice or alternation between actions or conditions. They are used to present different options or possibilities, allowing the reader or listener to understand that there are alternatives to be considered.
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Coordinating conjunctions link coordinated sentences.
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Indicate the logical relationship between actions or ideas.
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Each type of coordinated sentence has specific conjunctions.
Difference between Coordination and Subordination
The main difference between coordination and subordination lies in the dependency relationship between the sentences. In coordinated sentences, the sentences are syntactically independent, while in subordinate sentences, one sentence depends on the other to complete its meaning.
In coordinated sentences, syntactic independence allows each sentence to have a complete meaning on its own, even when connected to another sentence. This feature facilitates the construction of more varied and cohesive compound periods, allowing greater flexibility in the expression of ideas.
On the other hand, in subordinate sentences, one sentence (subordinate) depends on another (main) to make sense. The subordinate sentence adds additional information or details an idea presented in the main sentence. This creates a hierarchy relationship between the sentences, where the subordinate sentence complements or specifies the main sentence.
Understanding the difference between coordination and subordination is essential for constructing clear and consistent texts. Knowing when to use each type of structure allows the writer to better organize their ideas and create more coherent and understandable texts.
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Coordinated sentences are syntactically independent.
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Subordinate sentences depend on a main sentence.
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Coordination allows greater flexibility in the expression of ideas.
To Remember
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Coordination: Connection between syntactically independent sentences.
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Coordinated Sentences: Sentences that join without a subordinate relationship, maintaining syntactic independence.
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Coordinating Conjunctions: Words that link coordinated sentences, indicating the logical relationship between them.
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Types of Coordination: Additive, adversative, alternative, conclusive, and explanatory.
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Coordination vs Subordination: Difference between independent sentences (coordination) and dependent ones (subordination).
Conclusion
During the lesson, we discussed the importance of coordinated sentences in structuring compound periods in the Portuguese language. We discussed that coordinated sentences are syntactically independent and connect through coordinating conjunctions, allowing for the construction of richer and more cohesive texts. We also explored the five main types of coordinated sentences: additive, adversative, alternative, conclusive, and explanatory, each with its specific conjunctions and distinct functions.
Understanding the difference between coordination and subordination is crucial for improving writing and text interpretation. While coordinated sentences are independent, subordinate ones depend on each other to complete their meaning, creating a hierarchy relationship between them. This distinction is fundamental for constructing clear and well-structured texts, facilitating effective communication.
The knowledge acquired about coordinated sentences not only enriches students’ formal writing skills but also contributes to clearer and more efficient everyday communication. Encouraging practice and application of this knowledge in different contexts will help students become more proficient communicators, aware of the nuances of the Portuguese language.
Study Tips
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Review the practical examples presented in class to reinforce understanding of different types of coordinated sentences and their conjunctions.
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Practice identifying and classifying coordinated sentences in various texts, such as articles, stories, and news, to strengthen syntactic analysis skills.
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Create your own sentences and texts using different types of coordination and coordinating conjunctions, experimenting with how these structures can alter the meaning and cohesion of expressed ideas.
