Sequencing and Structuring
Introducing Evidence and Analysis
Contrasting and Nuancing
Causality and Logical Impact
Concluding and Synthesizing
100

Chávez’s decisions hurt the economy. ___, he gave jobs to people who were loyal to him even if they were not qualified.

For instance

100

________ Chávez had been in the military before, some military leaders didn’t like him.

Although

100

Some military leaders tried to overthrow Chavez.____, Chavez replaced leaders who didn’t agree with him.

As a result, For this reason, Consequently

100

Today, people wish they could change the mistakes that Chávez made. ____, the country’s future is uncertain.

In conclusion, In short, To sum up, In light of this,

200

_____ Chávez’s supporters thought he was helping Venezuela’s poor, the country’s government became a dictatorship where people had little say in how the country was run.

While

200

Today, about 75% of Venezuelans live on less than $1.90 a day. _______ many teachers, workers, and retirees are struggling to survive.

Consequently, As a result, For this reason

200

_______ many people remember how Chávez's social programs helped the poor, but they also remember how he hurt the economy and democracy. 

Overall, In conclusion, All things considered

300

Chávez’s social programs made life better for many people at first. Poverty dropped, and more people had access to healthcare, education, and other services. _______, these programs were heavily reliant on money from oil revenue which was unstable.

However

300

________  Chávez increasing government control over the economy, fewer goods were produced and economic problems grew in Venezuela.

Due to

300

_________, it will be up to the people of Venezuela to decide if they want to keep following Maduro or if they will fight for a better future. 

Ultimately

400

When oil prices dropped, the economy fell apart. _____,many people became poor.

Subsequently

400

February 2nd marks two decades since Hugo Chavez first assumed the presidency of Venezuela. Today, the Bolivarian Revolution that Chavez led until his death in 2013 is at its most critical moment: the economy is in ruins, three million Venezuelans have emigrated in recent years, and his successor, Nicolás Maduro, rules as a dictator while Juan Guaidó took the oath as interim president with the support of the international community. _______, understanding Chavez’s legacy is fundamental to grasp the current situation.

In this context, In light of this

400

After Chávez’s presidency ended, Maduro became the leader of Venezuela. ______ Maduro continued similar policies, which led to high inflation and made it harder for many people to afford basic needs.

Thus,

400

_________ Maduro has managed to stay in power through a combination of emotional appeals, manipulation of public opinion, and the use of rhetoric.

In conclusion, To sum up, In short, To conclude, As shown above

500

Chávez’s government was unable to make social programs sustainable without steady oil income. ______, after his death, many of the social advances Chávez made were undone by the economic collapse.

As a result, Thus, Therefore, Consequently, Hence