Connectives? What on earth are they?

[wol1968]

Serious question here from someone who did A-level Latin back in the dark ages and has a pretty 'traditional' knowledge of English grammar. Do 'connectives' correspond at all to any traditional parts of speech (conjunctions, prepositions etc.) or are they just any random small words that sew bits of English sentence together?

I realise I'm probably overthinking this and it's probably only the if's, but's, when's and wherever's that the teacher gives as an example (this is primary school literacy, after all) but can anyone with a relevant background (or chalkface knowledge) clear this up? I didn't think 'new grammar' could be as confusing as 'new maths'!

[jackjacksmummy]

Connectives - and, because, then.....etc.... Basically all the words that can be used to join 2 smaller sentences into one longer one.

[jellysmum77]

You are right wol it is words like; and, but, if, because etc. Words that join two clauses together (also known as conjunctions). Hope this helps xx.

[jackjacksmummy]

www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/t-l-585-connectives-display-borders

Sorry I can't link from my phone....

[LIZS]

Words that join phrases together

[mrz]

Connectives can be conjunctions, but not always. A conjunction is normally used to join two sentences (and, but, because) He isn't very tall but he is very strong.
Connectives on the other hand are used to connect thoughts and ideas. (on the other hand, likewise, obviously, furthermore, in addition)

[MMollyMum2]

They do what it says on the packet. Connect smaller sentances together.

[jellysmum77]

Also time connectives; after, then, next etc.