Module 4 Worksheet: Discourse Management

A short worksheet to consolidate Module 4.

Notice

  • Complete each item, then check your answer underneath.

Rule

Mixed review: signposting, hedging/boosting, and concession/counter-argument.

Practice

  1. 1) Which phrase reformulates a point more simply: “In other words” or “Firstly”?
    Answer: “In other words” — it restates an idea; “Firstly” sequences ideas.
  2. 2) Is “undoubtedly” a hedge or a booster?
    Answer: A booster — it strengthens the claim rather than softening it.
  3. 3) Rewrite as a hedge: “This approach is wrong.”
    Answer: Example: “It could be argued that this approach is flawed.”
  4. 4) Complete the concession: “Granted, the plan is risky, but ___.”
    Answer: Example: “…the potential reward makes it worth pursuing.”
  5. 5) Why do academic writers favour hedges like “tends to” over absolutes like “always”?
    Answer: Hedges avoid overstating claims and leave room for exceptions, making the argument more defensible.

Connect

Practise refining hedged and boosted claims with Error Correction.

Try Error Correction →

CEFR: C2

Azizul Hakim
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