Module 3: Transitions That Live Inside Paragraphs
Meta Description:
Most IELTS students only use transitions at the start of sentences. Band 7+ writers use them throughout the paragraph. Learn where to place transitions — and how to upgrade your writing fast.
Key Insight
Transitions are not just for beginnings.
They don’t belong only at the start of a sentence.
They live inside sentences, between clauses, and across ideas — creating rhythm and logic.
This is what separates Band 6 “add-on writing” from Band 7+ flow-based writing.
Psychological Hook (Repeat throughout this module):
“Transitions don’t sit on top of writing — they live inside it.”
Teaching Points
1. The 4 Transition Types You Must Master
| Type | Purpose | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Additive | Add more ideas | also, in addition, furthermore, not only… but also |
| Contrastive | Show differences | however, although, whereas, despite this |
| Causal | Show cause/effect | because, since, therefore, as a result |
| Conclusive | Summarize or close | in conclusion, overall, ultimately, to sum up |
2. Where Should Transitions Go?
Band 6 habit: Always at the start of a sentence
“Also, it helps students.”
“However, this is bad.”
Band 7+ habit: Use transitions inside sentences and between clauses
“In addition to reducing cost, this policy also improves efficiency.”
“While some argue it is unnecessary, others believe it is essential — especially in urban areas.”
Transitions at the start, middle, or even end can work — if they guide logic.
Example Upgrade: From Band 6 to Band 7
Band 6:
“There are many reasons why people agree with this. Also, they think it is good.”
Band 7:
“In addition to the financial savings it offers, this policy is also supported for its positive effect on social mobility — a factor that many believe is crucial for long-term success.”
Why is it better?
- Adds internal transition (“in addition to…”)
- Uses “also” inside the sentence
- Shows advanced fluency and reasoning
Transition Toolkit: Use These Naturally
Additive
- In addition
- Not only that, but…
- What’s more
- Moreover
Contrastive
- However
- Despite this
- On the other hand
- While X, Y…
Causal
- Because of this
- Therefore
- As a result
- Since…
Conclusive
- Overall
- In conclusion
- Ultimately
- To sum up
Exercise 1: Match the Transition
Instructions: Choose the best transition to fill each gap.
- Some believe students should learn online. ______, others prefer face-to-face learning.
a) In conclusion
b) On the other hand
c) For example
Answer: b) On the other hand - The internet has many benefits. ______, it allows people to access knowledge instantly.
a) In addition
b) Despite this
c) Therefore
Answer: a) In addition - Air pollution is rising. ______, governments must take action to reduce emissions.
a) Because
b) As a result
c) Not only that
Answer: b) As a result - ______ people believe education is important, others argue that experience matters more.
a) While
b) In conclusion
c) Moreover
Answer: a) While
Exercise 2: Rewrite a Body Paragraph Using Transitions
Original Band 6 Paragraph:
Some people think fast food is bad. It causes health problems. Also, people eat it because it is cheap. This is a big issue.
Your Rewrite (Use at least 5 transitions from the toolkit):
(Student writes here)
Model Band 7+ Rewrite:
While some enjoy fast food for its convenience, many experts highlight its negative impact on health. Because it is high in fat, sugar, and salt, frequent consumption can lead to serious medical issues such as obesity and diabetes. In addition, people often choose it not for the taste, but because it is more affordable than healthy alternatives. As a result, lower-income communities are more likely to suffer from diet-related illnesses. Overall, this trend reflects a growing gap between accessibility and nutrition.
Transition Self-Check Chart
| Feature | Present? |
|---|---|
| At least 1 additive transition | ☐ |
| At least 1 contrastive transition | ☐ |
| At least 1 causal transition | ☐ |
| Transition placed inside a sentence | ☐ |
| Paragraph flows logically (not just lists) | ☐ |
Final Reminder
“Transitions don’t sit on top of writing — they live inside it.”
Use them to guide, connect, and build flow. Not to decorate.
Next Step: Download the Transition Toolkit + Practice Worksheet
Get:
- The full transition list
- 10 paragraph practice sentences
- A Band 7+ transition cheat sheet
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