Casa ESL · C1 Advanced · Unit 7 of 20 · Step 1
Discourse Markers for Academic Writing
Name
Date
Vocabulary
gentrification
nounThe process of renovating deteriorated urban neighbourhoods, often displacing lower-income residents.
"Gentrification has transformed the city centre but displaced long-standing communities."
infrastructure
nounThe basic physical systems of a city or region, such as transport, power, and water.
"Aging infrastructure poses a significant challenge for urban planners."
sustainability
nounThe ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting resources.
"Sustainability must be at the heart of any modern urban development plan."
densification
nounThe process of increasing the population density of an urban area.
"Densification is often proposed as an alternative to suburban sprawl."
stakeholder
nounA person or group with an interest or concern in a particular matter.
"All stakeholders must be consulted before major planning decisions are made."
zoning
nounThe division of a city into areas where specific land uses are permitted.
"Mixed-use zoning has become increasingly popular in progressive city plans."
retrofit
verbTo add new technology or features to older systems or buildings.
"The council voted to retrofit existing buildings with energy-efficient systems."
congestion
nounThe state of being overcrowded, especially with traffic or people.
"Traffic congestion costs the city billions in lost productivity each year."
Grammar Focus
Discourse markers for academic writing
Discourse markers signal logical relationships between ideas. Addition: Furthermore, Moreover, In addition, What is more. Contrast: However, Nevertheless, Conversely, On the other hand. Concession: Notwithstanding, Granted, Admittedly, Be that as it may. Consequence/Result: Consequently, As a result, Hence, It follows that. Reformulation: In other words, That is to say, To put it differently. Summary: In light of the above, On balance, To sum up. Choosing the right marker strengthens the coherence and persuasiveness of academic arguments.
Furthermore, the data suggests that densification reduces per-capita carbon emissions.
Nevertheless, the social costs of gentrification cannot be overlooked.
Notwithstanding these challenges, the policy has broad support among urban planners.
In light of the evidence presented, a comprehensive review of zoning regulations is warranted.
Exercises
Exercise 1
Choose the most appropriate discourse marker to complete each sentence.
1. The project was completed on time and under budget. , the quality of materials used has been questioned.
2. Densification can reduce urban sprawl. , it places additional pressure on existing infrastructure.
3. the objections raised by residents, the council approved the development.
4. Traffic congestion has worsened significantly. , the council has proposed a congestion charge.
5. Mixed-use zoning encourages walkability. , it can stimulate local economies by integrating residential and commercial spaces.
Exercise 2
Match each discourse marker to its primary function.
Reading
Reimagining the City
Urban planning in the twenty-first century faces a paradox: cities must accommodate growing populations while simultaneously reducing their environmental impact. Densification — the strategy of building upward rather than outward — has been proposed as a solution. Furthermore, compact cities can support more efficient public transport networks and reduce dependence on private vehicles. Nevertheless, densification brings significant challenges. Infrastructure that was designed for lower population densities may be unable to cope, leading to congestion, overcrowded schools, and strained utilities. Moreover, the process of urban renewal frequently triggers gentrification, displacing the very communities the developments claim to serve. Notwithstanding these concerns, many planners argue that the alternative — continued suburban sprawl — is environmentally unsustainable and socially isolating. In light of the evidence, a balanced approach seems essential: one that combines densification with investment in infrastructure, genuinely affordable housing, and meaningful consultation with stakeholders. Admittedly, achieving this balance is easier in theory than in practice. Consequently, the most successful examples tend to be cities with strong governance structures and a long-term planning horizon.
1. What paradox does urban planning face, according to the passage?
2. What solution does the passage recommend, and what does it acknowledge about that solution?
Speaking
Discuss these questions with a partner or your teacher.
Writing
Write an academic paragraph (6–8 sentences) arguing for or against a specific urban planning policy. Use at least six different discourse markers to organise your argument.
Example: Congestion charging has been implemented in several major cities with notable success. Furthermore, revenue generated from the charges can be reinvested in public transport. Nevertheless, critics argue that such measures disproportionately affect lower-income commuters. Admittedly, this is a valid concern. Consequently, any congestion charge scheme should include exemptions or subsidies for vulnerable groups. In light of the evidence from London and Stockholm, the benefits appear to outweigh the costs.
Answer Key — For Teacher Use
Exercise 1
1. Nevertheless · 2. However · 3. Notwithstanding · 4. Consequently · 5. Furthermore
Exercise 2
1. Furthermore → Addition — adding a supporting point · 2. Nevertheless → Contrast — introducing an opposing point · 3. Consequently → Result — showing a logical outcome · 4. Notwithstanding → Concession — acknowledging despite opposition · 5. In light of → Summary — drawing on preceding evidence
Reading Comprehension
1. Cities must accommodate growing populations while simultaneously reducing their environmental impact. · 2. The passage recommends a balanced approach combining densification with infrastructure investment, affordable housing, and stakeholder consultation, but admits this is easier in theory than in practice.