Linking words for IELTS writing

Getting a high score in IELTS writing can depend on your ability to show how accurately you can answer the question and the complexity of your vocabulary and grammar. Linking words can be a great way to add flow to your writing, as well as increasing the richness of your language. All things that will get you the high marks you are looking for!

What is a linking word?

Linking words do exactly what they say. They link sentences together to create a flow and precision to your writing, these will make your answers easier and more pleasant to read and will add extra depth.

Good examples of linking words can be used to indicate time, show a location, compare and contrast, clarify and add extra information.

Check out these linking words below 

Download our free sequencing word worksheet

Click here >> Sequencing the first idea  

How to practice linking words in your Skype English lessons

There are multiple ways you can get into the right habit of using linking words when describing events, or giving answers to questions. Linking words do not have to be limited to just the writing section of the test, but can also be used effectively for the speaking parts as well.

English lessons by Skype can be a great way to practice key vocabulary, with your teacher explaining how and when to add extra sequencing words to boost your score in the exam.

Let’s look at an example question using linking words.

Question :

• What are you studying now?

Answer : (with no linking words)

I am studying economics, I have been studying for 2 years. I will finish studying in May. I enjoy my studies and want to continue in the future.

This answer does not contain linking words. As you can read, it is quite robotic and does not flow well, it does not sound like a well rounded answer.

Answer : (with linking words)

Currently I am studying economics which I have been studying for 2 years. I plan to finish studying in May in just a couple of months. I enjoy my studies and want to continue in the future, therefore I might start a masters degree in September, even though I am very busy.  

You can see that with the addition of linking vocabulary such as ‘therefore’ and ‘even though’ add extra depth and flow is added to the style of the writing or speaking.

Your teacher will be able to show you how to add these expressions and vocabulary to enhance your answers, gaining you higher scores in the exam!

English lessons by Skype are now a common way to learn English, but how do you know if these lessons are right for you?

First it is important to look at your reasons for learning a language. Do you need English for school, work or perhaps for studying for an exam such as IELTS?

Skype English lessons for teenagers

English lessons by Skype can be a great way to study for all of the above reasons. Young people studying English at school often feel the same about their lessons, they get to study vocabulary and grammar, but rarely have the opportunity to talk in their lessons. This is where English lessons by Skype can come in useful. You will be able utilise your new found vocabulary with a native speaker, testing how much of the vocabulary you know and checking that you are getting the pronunciation and and expressions correct. It is no good learning vocabulary if you do not also practice it and use it in real life situations.

School work can also be quite boring, if your English lessons at school involve learning and memorizing grammar, then where is the fun? With a teacher you can play games, discuss cool topics and really get to know each other, much more interesting than just learning vocabulary!

English lessons by Skype for work

We also see many people learning English by Skype who need it for their work. These days many jobs require a very good level of English to help you succeed and achieve promotion. A set back can be time, a busy work life does not leave much spare time for language lessons at the end of the day. So an advantage of English lessons by Skype is that you can choose exactly the time and date of the lessons. It is possible very early in the morning, late at night and even on the weekend.

With this flexibility you can be sure to manage you lessons effectively and fit them around your schedule, not the other way round. Lessons can be focussed on your job, perhaps you need English for marketing, human resources, advertising or just speaking to customers. Or they can be more general for everyday business needs such as emailing, telephone calls or taking part in meetings. Whatever your business needs there is probably a Skype lesson that is suited to you.

Exam preparation by Skype

Lastly what about exam lessons? IELTS is a very popular exam that many students need to take before moving onto other training, such as a university degree in England.

IELTS lessons by Skype can be a real advantage for some students, especially if you live in an area where there are not many native speaking teacher.

Skype lessons mean you can take advantage of a professionally trained native instructor without having to leave you country or study abroad. This can save you money and provide more opportunities. ESL’s Skype teachers are highly experienced in the IELTS exam and we specialise in providing training for all aspect of the exam.