Transitions Composition

Transitions O Transitions are: O connective words, phrases, or sentences that show the relationship between ideas. O cues that help the reader interpret ideas and evidence the way that you, the writer, want them understood. O invaluable because they clarify the content of a written work by showing relationships between ideas and by maintaining a clear flow of thought throughout.

Within and Between Sentences O Transitions within or between two sentences in a paragraph are often only a word or a phrase. O No Transition: Rudolpho is incredibly tall. He does not play basketball. O With Transition: Rudolpho is incredibly tall; nevertheless, he does not play basketball.

Between Paragraphs O Transitions between paragraphs should: O connect one paragraph to another O bridge the gaps that can occur when the idea in one paragraph ends and a new idea begins. O clearly show the shift between ideas O be used to both remind the reader of the previous paragraph and look forward to the idea discussed in the paragraph that follows. O form entire sentences O show the reader how the paragraph is important in relation to the other ideas put forth in the thesis.

Between Paragraphs Cont’d O Two strategies: O Use a transitional word and connect paragraph ideas in the topic sentence. O While some states have abolished the death penalty, voters in other states still believe it is an effective deterrent for crime. O Use repetition in each topic sentence. O Gay marriage must be legalized because homosexuals deserve the same inalienable rights as heteroxsexuals. O Gay marriage must be legalized because homosexuals do not choose their sexual identity. O Gay marriage must be legalized because homosexuals must be protected from hate crimes.

What Transitions Are Not O Transitions are not inserted randomly. O Consider the context of the sentence and choose a transition that makes sense. O Transitions are not used to preview the content of the next paragraph in the clincher. O Connect ideas between paragraphs in topic sentences.