Gamification: Transitional Words & Phrases Challenges

Freshman English Writing

Comparison and Contrast Essay

Prompt: Would you prefer spending a vacation somewhere in the wild or in a fancy hotel? What makes the difference?

Game: Transitional Words & Phrases Challenges

GAME INSTRUCTION

Step 1

Divide the class into two groups to play the game. The two groups will compete with each other, and whichever receives the higher points in the end wins the game. Everyone should take turns in playing the game. No one should play twice. 

Step 2

Get your phones or tablets ready. Key in the game pin: XXX. 

Step 3

There will be five questions. For each question, a set of sentences will be displayed, with one transitional word or phrase blanked out. You will choose the most appropriate transitional word or phrase that you think would best connect sentences. To win points, each correct answer should be accompanied by explanation of why one choice of a transitional word/phrase is better than the others.

ASSIGNMENT (AFTER THE GAME)

This activity prepares you to polish your first draft. To revise your first draft, . . . 

Step 1

Read your first draft. Circle all the transitional words and phrases you used. Do they effectively connect ideas to orient readers to intra- and extra- paragraph cohesion? Are there any logical connectors missing that hinders readers from following your drift? You may consider peer editing to address this potential problem. 

Step 2

Look at the transitional words/phrases in the handout. Identify their meanings and incorporate them into your essay whenever appropriate as best as you can.