This document discusses different types of linking words used to connect ideas: AND words that add similar ideas, BUT words that contrast ideas, and BECAUSE words that explain why. It provides examples of each type of linking word and how they are used in sentences to join two ideas. The document emphasizes that linking words are important for fluency when communicating more than one idea in speaking or answering questions.

1. Linking words
• These words are used to connect two ideas.
• They can be divided into three groups:
• 1. AND words that add similar ideas e.g.
– We went to the cinema and we went to a restaurant
– We went to the cinema, we also went to a restaurant.
– We went to the cinema, we went to a restaurant, too.
• 2. BUT words that contrast ideas e.g.
– We went to the cinema, but it was closed.
– We went to the cinema, however, it was closed.
– Although we went to the cinema, it was closed.
• 3. Because words that explain why e.g.
– We stayed at home because it was raining.
– It was raining so we stayed at home.
– As it was raining, we stayed at home.

2. AND words
• These words are used to add similar ideas.
• A dog is a good companion. + A dog gives you exercise.
• A dog is a good companion and gives you exercise.
– This is a simple linking word.
• A dog is a good companion, it also gives you exercise.
– Also (también) is used as an adverb: it is placed before the
main verb.
• A dog is a companion, it gives you exercise, too.
– Too is similar to also except it is at the end of the sentence.

3. AND words
• In addition to being a good companion, a dog gives
you exercise.
– This linking word can be at the beginning or in the middle
e.g. A dog is a good companion, in addition, it gives you
exercise) . If you use in addition to – remember to use the
ing form of the next verb.
• A dog is a good companion, moreover, it gives you
exercise.
– Moreover/Furthermore (ademas/ por otra parte) are used
in the middle of a sentence (with 2 commas) or at the
beginning of the second idea.

4. BUT words
These words are used to connect contrasting Ideas
• A dog is a good companion. vs. It is expensive .
• A dog is a good companion, but it is expensive.
• “But” is a simple way to contrast ideas. It is used in the middle
of a sentence but not at the beginning.
• A dog is a good companion, however, it is expensive.
• However is used in the middle of the two ideas with a comma
before and after ,however, (sin embargo).
• Although a dog is a good companion, it is expensive.
• It is used at the beginning of the two ideas and there is a
comma at the end of the first phrase.

5. BUT words
• Despite being a good companion, it is expensive.
• Despite is used at the beginning or in the middle ( a pesar de.).
• It is also used with a noun (despite the bad weather,..) or with an ing form
(despite being/having). IN SPITE OF being a good companion, a dog is ….
• On the one hand a dog is a good companion, but on the other it is
expensive to keep.
– This phrase can ONLY be used when there is a contrast. One part is used at the
beginning and the other in the middle. (Por un lado …….. pero por otro…)
• The advantage of a dog is that it is a good companion. The
disadvantage is that it is expensive to look after.
– This expression has two parts. It can begin – the advantage is that or the
advantage of …..

6. Because words
• These words are used to give reasons and
explanations.
• I´m studying English because I want to work
abroad.
• Since/As I want to work abroad I’m studying
English. ( similar to because at the beginning)
• I want to work abroad, so I’m studying
English.
• I want to work abroad, therefore, I’m studying
English. (more formal)

7. Why are linking words important?
• It is good for your fluency to communicate at
least two ideas when you speak or answer a
question.
• Did you go to the cinema?
• Yes I did. We went to see Avatar and it was
brilliant because the special effects were so
good and I also went for dinner at a restaurant.
( Now that is a good answer