1. SIGNALLING YOUR READERS: How to use transitions

2. Purpose of Transitions Signal a new purpose or task – Level 1 transitions which generally open paragraphs – Introduce new topics, new reasons, conclusion Signal a relationship between ideas – Level 2 transitions that appear within paragraphs – Cause/Effect, Comparison, Contrast, An example, etc Signal a connection or link – Level 2 transitions that appear within paragraphs – Time, place, importance, additional thought, more information Signal a shift in voice – Level 2 transitions used to move from the writer to a quote and back. – They signal that the words belong to someone else

3. Why use transitions 1.COHESION – Transitions are the best method of preventing an essay from sounding disconnected. 2.READER COMPREHENSION – Transitions help a writer use less words to express an idea in a way that that allows the reader to understand your message correctly.

4. Steps – Easier than you think The most common mistake when using transitions is selecting a word that expresses the wrong relationship. For example: This writer started her first paragraph with.. Additionally, Hamlet wanted revenge on his mother. She was sleeping with her dead husband’s brother. Hamlet was mad about this. By starting with Additionally the reader thought something had been left out as addition suggests that the writer is adding to an earlier idea. She also could have added a cause and effect transition word and then been able to use less sentences and help the reader understand the relationship between sleeping with the brother and Hamlet being angry.

5. So … Step 1 – first identify what relationship are establishing. For example… Are you starting a new paragraph? Is this adding to what you were saying? Is there a specific relationship such a comparison that you are trying to make? Then Step 2 – pick a word from the word wall or handout that is used for that relationship. HINT – if you don’t know what the word means look it up or don’t use it!

6. Transitions for Quotes Do NOT take an entire statement and then explain it. If you think you have a large chunck that must be place in your paper such as a chart or definition see Ms. Harper or your teacher for help. You can also consult MLA Handbook on line. BAD EXAMPLE: ‘’ Hamlet’s act of vengeance portrays the degradation of his mental state as his sense of loyalty and betrayal are in conflict. ’’ (Shakespeare 48). This means he is confused and going crazy.

7. Frames you may use Source author verb ‘’quote’’ According to Source author verb ‘’quote’’ ‘’ quote’’ verb that Author credibility source author verb quote NOTE – make sure the verb you select is what the author was doing in the source. For example, if he/she was arguing that use argues.

8. HUH? Examples to clarify Source author (Mary Shelly) verb (compares) ‘’quote’’ Mary Shelly compares ‘’Frankenstein’s innocence is that of child’’ (8). Author credibility source author verb quote Scientist and 30 year international aid worker, Nancy Finkelstein endorses the use of solar powered filtration systems as ‘’a cost effective and efficient method that would provide water to thousands of Africans in need. ’’ (Globe 4)

9. HUH? What about the rest of it? Quotes that just appear in a sentence confuse the reader. – Who is talking here? (if you didn’t use correct citations) – How does this relate to what you were saying?

10. HUH? What about the rest of it? BAD EXAMPLE: America has a problem with drinking and driving. In 2004 drunk drivers killed almost 17,000 people and injured 500,000 others. While many are quick condemn drinking and driving, they are also quick to defend or offer excuses for such behavior, especially when the offendor is a friend. ‘’Many people local people who know the driver are suprised when they head about the accident, and they are quick to defend him. They tell me he was a war hero. His parent’s aren’t well. He’s an alcoholic. Or my favorite: ‘He’s a good guy when he doesn’t drink.’ ‘’ (Russell 150) When are we going to get tough with drunk drivers?

11. HUH? What about the rest of it? NOW IT IS A GOOD EXAMPLE America has a problem with drinking and driving. In 2004 drunk drivers killed almost 17,000 people and injured 500,000 others. While many are quick condemn drinking and driving, they are also quick to defend or offer excuses for such behavior, especially when the offendor is a friend. Ruth Russell, whose family’s life was shattered by a drunk driver, recalls that ‘’many people local people who know the driver are suprised when they head about the accident, and they are quick to defend him. They tell me he was a war hero. His parent’s aren’t well. He’s an alcoholic. Or my favorite: ‘He’s a good guy when he doesn’t drink.’ ‘’ (150) When are we going to get tough with drunk drivers? Note didn’t keep the Russell here because it was already stated in the paragraph What frame was used? Source Credibility Verb By telling us that this person is recalling (remembering) what she was told and that her family was injured gives the reader a personal example to support what was said early without saying This is an example of what one person experienced when her family was injured. (LESS WORK!!)

12. Resources Word Wall Poster Hand out of Transitions (just ask if you need)