BRIDGING SENTENCES, BUILDING STORIES: COHESION IN ESL NARRATIVES
- Zanurin Mohamad Safar
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
Modelling the use of cohesive devices is essential for ESL writers learning to craft effective narrative essays. Would you concur with me? Cohesive devices such as conjunctions, transitional phrases, and pronouns help link ideas smoothly, guiding readers through the story’s progression. For the SPM 1119/2 candidates who prefer to write a story in Part 3 of the SPM 1119/2 paper, these tools may not come intuitively, so explicit modelling by English Language teachers does provide concrete examples of how to connect sentences and paragraphs logically.
By analysing well-written narratives, I am positive students can observe how writers use time markers (e.g., “then,” “after that”), cause-effect links (e.g., “because,” “so”), and referential words (e.g., “he,” “it”) to maintain flow and clarity. This exposure helps learners internalise patterns and apply them in their own writing. Moreover, modelling encourages awareness of tone, pacing, and coherence, which are vital for engaging storytelling. Ultimately, it empowers ESL writers to express their ideas more fluently and confidently, enhancing both their academic performance and personal voice in English. Here are 20 complete-sentence examples that demonstrate how cohesive devices can be effectively used in a narrative essay. Each sentence shows a different type of connector (time, contrast, addition, cause–effect, sequence, etc.).
Time / Sequence
At first, Kumar couldn’t believe what had just happened before his eyes.
After a few minutes, everyone started to panic and run for shelter.
Then, something unexpected changed the course of the entire day.
Before long, the sky turned dark and thunder roared across the resort.
In the end, we realised that the experience had taught us a valuable lesson.
Addition / Continuation
Moreover, my friends supported me even when I almost gave up.
Besides that, the teacher encouraged us to take responsibility for our actions.
Furthermore, the incident strengthened our friendship and trust in each other.
Not only that, but we also learnt the importance of teamwork and patience.
Contrast / Unexpected Turn
However, things did not go as smoothly as we had planned.
On the other hand, my brother chose to stay calm and think rationally.
In contrast, I was completely overwhelmed by fear and confusion.
Although it seemed hopeless, we decided to try one last time.
Cause and Effect
As a result, we missed the last bus and had to walk home.
Therefore, I promised myself never to repeat the same mistake again.
Consequently, our hard work paid off when we finally won the competition.
Because of that incident, I learnt to appreciate the value of honesty.
Emphasis / Conclusion
Indeed, that day remains one of the most unforgettable moments of my life.
In fact, it was the turning point that made me a more responsible person.
To sum up, the experience taught me courage, patience, and gratitude.
