Choose a transition from the logical relationship
Identify contrast, consequence, addition, example or sequence before selecting a connector.
What you will tackle
- Identify logical relationships within and between sentences
- Select transitions for contrast, concession, cause/result, addition, example and sequence
- Check punctuation separately from logical fit
Predict the relationship first
‘However’ signals contrast or qualification, ‘therefore’ a conclusion, ‘for example’ an illustration and ‘moreover’ an additional supporting point. Chronological words describe sequence, which does not by itself establish causation.
Logic does not excuse a faulty boundary
A conjunctive adverb such as however is not a coordinating conjunction. Two independent clauses may be joined as ‘The method is quick; however, it is costly.’ The same logical relationship can be expressed with a complete new sentence instead.
Build your notes, then practise
Work on paper before opening an explanation. Guided tasks provide a starting point; independent tasks remove the scaffolding; application tasks ask you to justify a method or interpretation in context.
Guided practice
Guided 1
Choose a transition: ‘Digital copies reduce routine handling of the manuscripts. ____, researchers sometimes need to inspect the originals.’ Explain why ‘therefore’ is weaker than ‘however’ here.
Show a starting hint
Describe the connection without using any transition word first.
Compare with the explained answer
- The second sentence limits the implication of the first.
- However introduces that contrast or qualification.
- Therefore would suggest that reduced handling causes a need to inspect originals, which is not the relationship stated.
Answer / response criteria: However.
Independent practice
Independent 1
Supply suitable transitions: ‘The road was flooded. ____, the bus used another route.’ ‘Several birds use tools. ____, some crows bend twigs.’ ‘The sample was weighed; ____, it was heated.’
Compare with the explained answer
- The first relationship is consequence: therefore or consequently.
- The second illustrates a general claim: for example.
- The third gives sequence: next or then.
Answer / response criteria: For example: Consequently; For example; next.
Application practice
Application 1
Combine these facts in a coherent two-sentence explanation: the new lamp uses less energy; it costs more initially; its running cost may offset that difference with sufficient use. Choose transitions that preserve the trade-off and condition.
Compare with the explained answer
- Introduce the initial-cost contrast with however or although.
- Connect potential savings to sufficient use with a conditional phrase.
- Avoid claiming savings are guaranteed for every buyer.
Answer / response criteria: ‘The new lamp uses less energy; however, it costs more initially. With sufficient use, lower running costs may offset that difference.’
What can you explain now?
Combine these facts in a coherent two-sentence explanation: the new lamp uses less energy; it costs more initially; its running cost may offset that difference with sufficient use. Choose transitions that preserve the trade-off and condition.
Compare with the explanation
‘The new lamp uses less energy; however, it costs more initially. With sufficient use, lower running costs may offset that difference.’
Explain the reasoning before comparing. This review records your self-assessment rather than an official score or mastery decision.
After trying it yourself, choose your next review. This is your self-assessment.
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Source and review status
Core coverage follows the detailed SAT skills in Appendix B of the September 2026 framework. The conditional School Day Essay is separate. The framework is maintained rather than issued as an annual subject syllabus.
Original teaching and explained self-check practice are available. Independent subject-specialist review and difficulty calibration remain pending; this is not an exam-board endorsement or a mastery certificate.
Official source specification / guide