Understanding Discourse Management
Discourse management evaluates a student's ability to produce extended, coherent stretches of language [10]. At the B1 level, the CEFRL (p. 58) states learners can sustain a straightforward description presented as a linear sequence of points [11]. However, reaching a B2 Band 5 requires candidates to produce extended stretches of language with very little hesitation and a range of cohesive devices [10].
lightbulb
Teacher Tip
"Create board games where landing on a space requires a student to speak on a topic for 30, 60, or 90 seconds. This forces them to stretch their answers and naturally employ cohesive devices [13]."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are cohesive devices?
add
Cohesive devices are words and phrases that show connections between ideas, such as 'therefore', 'as a result', or 'on the other hand' [14].
How can I teach them interactively?
add
Give students slips of paper with linkers like 'however' or 'therefore' and have them roleplay as strangers on a train, requiring them to use all their assigned phrases within a time limit [15].