Instructions
Welcome, Cohesion Detective! Your mission is to investigate weak texts and transform them into strong, persuasive arguments. A text with good cohesion flows logically, with all the sentences and ideas connected like puzzle pieces. You will learn to strengthen texts by improving their sequence, structure, and evidence.
- Read the explanation for each section carefully.
- Complete the tasks in each part. They get more challenging as you go!
- Use the "Hint Box" in Part 2 if you need some extra clues.
- Try the optional "Challenge Zone" to test your new skills at a higher level.
- Check your work against the "Answer Key" at the end.
Part 1: The Mixed-Up Message (Improving Sequence)
A logical sequence is the first step to cohesion. The sentences below form a paragraph, but they've been scrambled! Your task is to restore the correct order by writing the number (1-5) that represents the logical sequence in the space provided.
Topic: The benefits of video games.
(____) Furthermore, many multiplayer games require teamwork and communication, helping players develop valuable social skills.
(____) For example, puzzle-based games like Portal or The Legend of Zelda can significantly improve problem-solving abilities.
(____) Despite common misconceptions, playing video games can offer significant cognitive and social benefits.
(____) Therefore, instead of being seen as just a simple pastime, video games should be recognized for their potential to help players learn and grow.
(____) These games challenge players to think critically and creatively to overcome obstacles.
Part 2: Building Bridges (Strengthening Internal Structure)
Good writers use "bridge" words and phrases (also called transitions) to connect ideas smoothly. The paragraph below is choppy and disconnected. Rewrite it in the space provided, adding transition words to improve its flow and cohesion. Use the Hint Box for ideas!
To add an idea: In addition, Furthermore, Moreover, Also
To show a result: As a result, Consequently, Therefore, Thus
To show contrast: However, On the other hand, Nevertheless
To give an example: For instance, For example, Specifically
Original Choppy Paragraph:
Schools should start later in the morning. Teenagers are often sleep-deprived. Their natural sleep cycles shift during adolescence. A later start time would align with their biology. Students would be more alert in class. Academic performance would improve.
Your Cohesive Rewrite:
Part 3: The Evidence Lab (Substantiating Claims)
A strong argument isn't just well-structured; it's backed by evidence. Your task is to match each Claim with the most appropriate piece of Evidence that substantiates it. Write the letter of the correct Evidence in the box next to the Claim.
| Claims | Evidence |
|---|---|
| 1. Increasing the amount of green space in urban areas can improve residents' mental well-being. | A. Dr. Elena Vance, a leading economist, states, "Local businesses often see a 15% increase in foot traffic when located near well-maintained public parks." |
| 2. School uniform policies may reduce instances of bullying related to clothing choices. | B. A 2022 study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that individuals who spent at least 20 minutes a day in a park reported lower levels of stress and anxiety. |
| 3. Public parks provide a measurable economic benefit to nearby businesses. | C. According to a report from the Longwood School District, "After implementing a uniform policy, reported incidents of peer-to-peer conflict over apparel dropped by over 40% in one year." |
Challenge Zone (Optional Extension)
Now, put all your skills together. Write a short, cohesive paragraph (3-5 sentences) arguing for or against the topic: "Should students be required to learn a musical instrument in school?"
Make sure your paragraph includes:
- A clear and logical sequence of ideas.
- At least two transition words or phrases.
- One piece of evidence to support your claim (you can create a realistic-sounding statistic or quote).
Real-World Connection
Think beyond school essays. List two real-life situations where building a cohesive, well-structured, and evidence-based argument would be an important skill.
- __________________________________________________________________________________
- __________________________________________________________________________________
Answer Key
Part 1: The Mixed-Up Message
The correct order is:
(3) Furthermore, many multiplayer games require teamwork and communication, helping players develop valuable social skills.
(2) For example, puzzle-based games like Portal or The Legend of Zelda can significantly improve problem-solving abilities.
(1) Despite common misconceptions, playing video games can offer significant cognitive and social benefits.
(5) Therefore, instead of being seen as just a simple pastime, video games should be recognized for their potential to help players learn and grow.
(4) These games challenge players to think critically and creatively to overcome obstacles.
Part 2: Building Bridges
(Note: Your answer may be slightly different, but it should use transition words to connect the ideas smoothly. This is one possible example.)
Schools should start later in the morning because teenagers are often sleep-deprived. This is largely due to the fact that their natural sleep cycles shift during adolescence. As a result, a later start time would align better with their biology. Consequently, students would be more alert in class. Therefore, academic performance would likely improve.
Part 3: The Evidence Lab
1. B
2. C
3. A
Challenge Zone
(Answers will vary. A good answer will follow the instructions. Here is an example.)
Requiring all students to learn a musical instrument is a beneficial policy because it enhances brain development. For instance, numerous studies show that learning music improves memory and abstract reasoning skills. Furthermore, a 2023 report from the National Arts Council stated that students with musical training consistently score higher on standardized math tests. Therefore, this requirement is an investment in students' overall academic success.
Real-World Connection
(Answers will vary, but may include examples like:)
1. Asking your parents for more responsibilities or a later curfew (presenting a logical case with evidence of your maturity).
2. Participating in a town hall meeting or writing an email to a local official about an issue you care about (like building a new skate park).
3. Debating with a friend about a topic you disagree on in a respectful, logical way.
4. Pitching an idea for a new club or event to a teacher or principal.