Connecting Ideas

In this unit, students learn how to connect ideas smoothly using sequencing words (first, then, after that, finally) and linkers for reason and contrast (because, so, however). The outcomes are clearer speaking and a short, well-linked paragraph.

Objectives Language Focus Speaking Writing Practice Exit Ticket Homework Materials

SWBAT (Objectives)

Use sequencing words to describe events in order (first, then, after that, finally).
Use linkers to give reasons (because), results (so), and contrasts (however).
Speak about a familiar topic using at least 5 linkers naturally.
Write a short paragraph (90–130 words) with clear organization and cohesive linkers.

Language Focus: Linkers & Sequencing

Sequencing

• First, I checked my email.
• Then, I called my friend.
• After that, we met at a café.
• Finally, I went home.

Reason & result

• I stayed home because it was raining.
• It was raining, so I stayed home.

Contrast

• I wanted to go out. However, I was too tired.
• The movie was long; however, it was interesting.

Accuracy tips

• Use a comma before so and however when they join clauses.
• Don’t overuse “and then”. Mix: after that, later, in the end.
• “Because” answers why. “So” shows a result.

Linkers Reference (PDF) Mini Notes (PDF)

Speaking: Tell a Clear Story

Warm-up (2 minutes)

Tell your partner about your morning using 4 sequencing words: first, then, after that, finally.

Task: “A small problem” (pairs)

Choose a situation card (missed bus, lost keys, late meeting, etc.).
Explain what happened using sequencing + linkers.
Your partner asks 2 follow-up questions (Why? What happened next?).

Speaking success checklist

Used 4 sequencing words
Used because + so at least once
Used however correctly
Story is clear (listener can follow)

Speaking Cards (PDF)

Writing: A Well-Linked Paragraph

Model paragraph

Last Friday, I planned to meet my friend after work. First, I finished my tasks early, so I left the office at 5:00. Then, I took the subway downtown. I wanted to arrive on time; however, the train was delayed. Because of the delay, I texted my friend to explain. After that, we met at a small café and talked for an hour. Finally, I went home and watched a show.

Paragraph structure

Topic sentence: what the paragraph is about
Details: events in order
Linkers: because/so/however + sequencing
Closing sentence: final result or feeling

Writing task

Write 90–130 words about a day you remember (good or bad). Use: first, then, after that, finally + because, so, however (at least once each).

Optional upgrade: add 2 extra linkers: also, although, in the end.

Writing Worksheet (PDF) Mini Rubric (PDF)

Practice (Accuracy)

Practice 1: Choose the linker

1) I missed the bus, ____ I was late. (so / because)
2) I stayed home ____ it was snowing. (because / however)
3) I wanted to go out. ____, I was too tired. (However / So)

Practice 2: Put events in order

Put these in order and add sequencing words:
got home · made dinner · finished work · watched a show

Practice 3: Combine sentences

Combine using because / so / however:
• I was hungry. I cooked pasta.
• I wanted to study. I didn’t have time.

Practice Worksheet (PDF)

Exit Ticket (5 minutes)

Write 4 sentences about today using: first, then, after that, finally.
Add 1 sentence with because and 1 with however.

Exit Ticket (PDF)

Homework

Writing: rewrite your paragraph and add 2 new linkers (also, although, in the end, therefore).
Speaking: record a 60–90 second story using at least 6 linkers.
Optional: find 5 linkers in an article or blog post and copy the sentences.

Homework Sheet (PDF) ▶ Shadowing Track (MP3)

Materials & Downloads

Unit 1 Slides — PPTX
Linkers Reference — PDF · Mini Notes — PDF
Speaking Cards — PDF
Writing Worksheet — PDF · Rubric — PDF
Practice Worksheet — PDF
Exit Ticket — PDF · Homework — PDF

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