Contextualization

Theoretical Introduction

To understand the organization of texts, we need to explore two fundamental concepts of linguistics: cohesion and coherence. Cohesion refers to the connection, link, between the words, expressions, or sentences of the text. It is responsible for the interrelation between the elements of discourse, linking ideas and avoiding repetitions, providing fluency to the text.

Coherence, on the other hand, is related to the connection of ideas, to the internal logic of the text. It allows us to interpret the text as a unified whole, not as isolated parts. For coherence to exist, it is necessary that the information and ideas contained in the text are in harmony, that there is no contradiction between them.

These concepts do not operate in isolation, but together to give meaning and structure to the text. Cohesion and coherence are essential for good writing and need to be understood and practiced to develop efficient writing skills.

Contextualization

Every human being is a social being and language is a fundamental tool for communication and interaction among individuals. Therefore, the ability to understand and produce coherent and cohesive texts is extremely relevant for effective communication.

In the real world, we use cohesion and coherence all the time, whether when writing an email to a teacher, drafting an essay for ENEM, giving a presentation at work, or simply telling a story to a friend. Mastery of these concepts can open doors to many opportunities, such as achieving a good score on a test, performing well at work, or even having an engaging conversation.

Practical Activity

Title: "Textuality in Action: Exploring Cohesion and Coherence in Real Texts"

Project Objective

The objective of this project is to apply the concepts of cohesion and coherence in the analysis and production of texts, through reading, discussion, and reworking of real texts.

Detailed Project Description

Students will be divided into groups of 3 to 5 members. Each group will receive a different text to work on. The texts can be news articles, blog posts, excerpts from books, among others.

Students will analyze their assigned text, identifying cohesion resources and evidence of coherence. Then, they will have the challenge of rewriting the text, maintaining its original meaning, but using different cohesion mechanisms and altering the text structure to increase its coherence, if necessary.

This will require students to put into practice their technical skills, such as identifying synonyms, antonyms, homonyms, proper use of pronouns, correct use of connectors, among others. In addition, the project will stimulate socio-emotional skills such as time management, communication, problem-solving, and creative thinking, as they will need to collaborate and organize themselves to complete the task.

Necessary Materials

• Real texts for analysis (chosen by the teacher)
• Paper and pen for notes
• Computer with word processor
• Reference books and/or internet access for research

Step by Step

1. Formation of groups and delivery of assigned texts.
2. Reading the text and group discussion about the subject of the text and its purpose.
3. Identification of cohesion resources and evidence of coherence in the original text. Taking notes of this information.
4. Planning the text reworking.
5. Text rewriting: the group must maintain the original meaning, but use different cohesion mechanisms and, if necessary, adjust the text structure to increase its coherence.
6. Text revision: the group must check if the new text maintains the original meaning and if the cohesion and coherence mechanisms used are appropriate.
7. Preparation of the final report on the rewriting process and the conclusions drawn.

Project Delivery

The project will be completed with the delivery of the report, which must be written jointly by the group members and divided into:

1. Introduction: Contextualization of the subject, explaining the relevance of cohesion and coherence to textuality, and the project's objective.

2. Development: In this section, students should present the original text and the reworked text, indicating the cohesion resources used and the coherence strategies employed. The methodology used for rewriting the text should also be explained.

3. Conclusion: Review of the project's objectives, presentation of the learnings obtained, and the conclusions drawn from the experience.

4. Bibliography: Indication of the sources used for research and analysis.

Our main goal is for students to understand and apply the concepts of cohesion and coherence effectively, using these tools to improve their textual competence and communicative skills.