Coherence — English definition
Defined in 2 courses:
- A clear relationship among parts of a text that helps a reader follow its meaning. (English 7: Reading, Evidence & Expression)
- The quality of an essay whose parts connect and each visibly advances the whole, so it reads as one argument rather than a stack of paragraphs. (English 12: Complex Texts, Independent Inquiry & Public Voice)
Where it is taught
- Paragraphs: Evidence, Commentary & Coherence — Argument, Counterclaims & Revision, English 7: Reading, Evidence & Expression, Grade 7
- The Extended Argument — Research & Source-Based Writing, English 12: Complex Texts, Independent Inquiry & Public Voice, Grade 12
In use
Transitions express relationships such as contrast or consequence; adding however to an unrelated sentence does not create coherence.
Paragraphs: Evidence, Commentary & Coherence
Questions using coherence
Problem 1
Answer and explanation
A clear relationship among parts of a text that helps a reader follow its meaning. A paragraph develops one main function within a larger response. A topic sentence may state a claim, introduce a contrast, or explain a step. Decide what the reader should understand by the end before adding supporting sentences.
Use the model to discuss reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; written work needs human marking.
Problem 2
Answer and explanation
A clear relationship among parts of a text that helps a reader follow its meaning. The unit case offers this example to examine: Leila increasingly treats a flaw as a reason to revise rather than hide her work. In paragraph 7 she wants to put away the unreadable card but moves it nearer the door instead. The contrast between her impulse and action shows a changed response to embarrassment. The table detail can be omitted unless the paragraph explains its relationship to that claim. Identify the wording or choice that fits the term. A different accurate example is acceptable.
Use the model to discuss reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; written work needs human marking.
Problem 3
- A paragraph formula guarantees reasoning.
- “This is important” fully explains the relevance of evidence.
- coherence: A clear relationship among parts of a text that helps a reader follow its meaning.
- Every correct response must exactly copy the model wording.
Answer and explanation
coherence: A clear relationship among parts of a text that helps a reader follow its meaning.
A clear relationship among parts of a text that helps a reader follow its meaning. Leila increasingly treats a flaw as a reason to revise rather than hide her work. In paragraph 7 she wants to put away the unreadable card but moves it nearer the door instead. The contrast between her impulse and action shows a changed response to embarrassment. The table detail can be omitted unless the paragraph explains its relationship to that claim.
Problem 4
Answer and explanation
A clear relationship among parts of a text that helps a reader follow its meaning. A paragraph develops one main function within a larger response. A topic sentence may state a claim, introduce a contrast, or explain a step. Decide what the reader should understand by the end before adding supporting sentences.
Use the model to discuss reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; written work needs human marking.