Which term refers to the ability to construct cohesive texts from phrases and sentences?

Which term refers to the ability to construct cohesive texts from phrases and sentences?

• A. Strategic competence
• B. Discourse competence
• C. Linguistic competence
• D. Epenthesis

Answer: (B)

The ability to build a cohesive text from phrases and sentences is discourse competence. This means linking ideas across larger stretches of writing or speech, using transitions and connectors, and keeping the topic thread clear so the text flows smoothly. It also involves using reference (like pronouns) and repetition of key terms to show how ideas relate and to signal cohesion from one sentence to the next. For example, crafting a paragraph with a clear topic sentence, supporting details, and a concluding sentence, while weaving in transitions like however, first, and therefore, demonstrates this skill. The other options focus on different areas: strategic competence is about choosing tactics to handle communication problems, linguistic competence is about knowledge of grammar and vocabulary, and epenthesis is a phonological process of inserting sounds.

The ability to build a cohesive text from phrases and sentences is discourse competence. This means linking ideas across larger stretches of writing or speech, using transitions and connectors, and keeping the topic thread clear so the text flows smoothly. It also involves using reference (like pronouns) and repetition of key terms to show how ideas relate and to signal cohesion from one sentence to the next. For example, crafting a paragraph with a clear topic sentence, supporting details, and a concluding sentence, while weaving in transitions like however, first, and therefore, demonstrates this skill. The other options focus on different areas: strategic competence is about choosing tactics to handle communication problems, linguistic competence is about knowledge of grammar and vocabulary, and epenthesis is a phonological process of inserting sounds.