Page 38 - DENG401_Advance Communication Skills

Unit 1: Simple Rule for Pronunciation & Intonation

1.4 Linking Notes

Because of the influence of their first language (‘L1’) pronunciation, learners of English transform
words, phrases and sentences to match their own language sounds. They sometimes consult the
language rules of their mother tongue and this sometimes results in error. We can also talk
about adjustments in connected speech. This is how words fit together. Native speakers put their
words together in various ways in order to make their speech fluid and interesting. Because of
the influence of their first language pronunciation, learners of English transform words, phrases
and sentences to match their own language sounds. They sometimes consult the language rules
of their mother tongue and this sometimes results in error. Some examples in relation...will
follow:
(a) ‘Linking’ is what happens when speakers connect the final sound of one word with the
beginning sound of the next word (blackand white). Linking is common in English and it
appears throughout the activities in this syllabus. You may wish to point them out to your
students as they appear.
(b) One common form of ‘assimilation’ is when two words influence each other and become
one sound (have to -> hafta, has to -> hasta and use to -> usta) such forms may also be
highlighted in the lessons.
(c) ‘Epenthesis’ is what happens when speakers add a sound before (word-initial) within
(word-internal) or after (word-final) a word or phrase. This additional sound can sometimes
cause misunderstandings in communication or (inappropriate) ridicule from native
speakers (Oh no!).

Linking words help you to connect ideas and sentences, so that people can follow your ideas.
You can use linking words to link ideas in our talking and writing. Linking words enable our
ideas to flow logically and cohesively.
You can use linking words to add ideas together, contrast ideas, or show the reason for something.
There are three main types of linking words:
1. Conjunctions
2. Sentence connectors
3. Subordinators

To sequence ideas
1. First /firstly, second/secondly, third/thirdly etc.
2. Next, last, finally
3. In addition, moreover
4. Further/furthermore
5. Another
6. Also

7. In conclusion
8. To summarise
9. After that/thereafter
Note: We normally use these words at the beginning of the sentence to give a summary of what
we have said or written.

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