The term 'discourse marker' may sound like a big word but it actually refers to words that we hear and say all the time!
Discourse markers are words and phrases used to connect, organize, or structure the flow of a conversation or piece of text. We know them by the more common terms linking words, sentence connectors and transition words. These words help to link ideas, show relationships between different parts of a discussion, manage turn-taking in conversations, and express attitudes or emotions. They help listeners or readers follow the flow of thoughts or ideas and are therefore important for coherence, a criteria being tested in the IELTS speaking and writing tests. Looking at the Speaking Band Descriptors, you'll see the phrase '...connectives and discourse markers' under the criteria of Fluency and Coherence specifically from Band 4 or 5 upwards. In the Writing Band Descriptors, you'll see the equivalent phrase '...cohesive devices.' To get a Band 7, the band descriptors say that a test taker must be able to 'use a range of connectives and discourse markers with some flexibility.' In other words, if a test-taker wants to sound more coherent and achieve a high band score, then using discourse markers appropriately is necessary. 'Appropriate' is the key word here. You can't just force discourse markers into every sentence, or else you will lose points if the sentence sounds strange or out of place. A test-taker should also be careful not to use discourse markers as fillers. You'll find the assessment criterion "May over-use certain connectives and discourse markers" listed under Band 5. 'You know' and 'like' are two discourse markers that get overused and may lead to a lower score.
Here is a list of common discourse markers and their functions in sentences: 1. Sequencing: Words that show the order or sequence of ideas.
2. Addition: Words that add information or ideas.
3. Contrast: Words that show a contrast or contradiction.
4. Result or Consequence: Words indicating a cause-and-effect relationship.
5. Clarification or Example: Words used to clarify or provide examples.
6. Showing attitude or opinion: Words used to indicate your attitude or opinion towards the topic:
7. Generalization: Words use to make broad statements
There are many more markers with other functions besides the ones discussed in this list. Hopefully you got some ideas about how useful they are to structure not only your spoken and written responses in the IELTS, but also everyday communication in the real world. Next time you listen to conversations or read passages, try to note how these words and phrases are used so that you can also integrate them in your own speaking and writing.
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A review of the IELTS Speaking Band Descriptors would show that repetition is something that would give a test-taker lower band scores of around 4 or 5 in fluency and coherence. This is because frequent repetitions demonstrate limited vocabulary and communication skills. Here are some strategies to minimize repetition in your responses:
1. Describe and specify.
2. Learn to paraphrase.
Of course, some degree of repetition is normal in conversation, and examiners understand this. The key is to avoid excessive and unnecessary repetition by employing the strategies mentioned above while maintaining natural and fluent speech. When preparing for the IELTS speaking test, it's important to focus on specific skills and strategies to perform well. The IELTS speaking test consists of either a face-to-face interview with an examiner or through a video call. Here are the core skills to work on:
1. Fluency and Coherence
2. Lexical Resource (Vocabulary)
3. Grammatical Range and Accuracy
4. Pronunciation and Intonation
5. Listening and Responding
6. Confidence and Relaxation
The IELTS speaking test is an opportunity to showcase your English language skills. Familiarize yourself with the test format and scoring criteria, and tailor your practice to address your specific strengths and weaknesses. |