Discourse and Genre

This set of flashcards covers key terms and definitions related to discourse analysis and genre as discussed in the lecture notes.

Genre

A category of communicative events that follows certain conventions and serves a distinct purpose.

Discourse

Written or spoken communication that involves the use of language in context.

Rhetorical Structure

The organization of a text based on the purpose or argument it aims to convey.

Generic Structure

The organizational pattern that is typical for a particular genre.

Communicative Purpose

The intended effect that a text's author aims to achieve with their audience.

Literature Review

A section in academic writing that surveys existing research on a given topic.

Academic Essay

A written work that presents an argument or a proposition, supported by evidence and analysis.

Metadiscourse

Language used to describe the structure, organization, and interaction of a text with its audience.

Social Context

The environment and circumstances that influence how a genre is produced and understood.

Genre Chain

A sequence of related genres that informs or supports one another within a communicative context.

CARS Framework

Create a Research Space model that outlines the typical structure of the introduction of research articles.

Hedge

A linguistic device used by authors to express uncertainty or to soften claims.

Prototype

An idealized instance that serves as a reference point for identifying members of a genre category.

Written Genres

Forms of text that are produced in written form, such as essays and reports.

Spoken Genres

Forms of communication that occur in spoken interaction, like conversations and speeches.

Schematic Structure

The formal organization of a text as defined by its genre.

Internal Memo

A genre that has changed due to technological advances, typically used within organizations.

Formal Register

A style of language that is more sophisticated or complex, often used in academic and professional writing.

Genre Analysis

The study of how genres function in specific contexts and how they are recognized based on their features.

Academic Discourse

The type of communication used within academic settings, characterized by specific conventions and structures.

Constraint

Limits that genres impose on how language is used in particular communicative events.

Choice

The options available to language users within the rules of a genre.

Intercultural Rhetoric

The study of how different cultures express and structure communication.

Figures and Tables

Visual representations that can be part of academic texts to support arguments or present data.

Reader Engagement

Strategies authors use to connect with their audience and maintain interest.

Textual Borrowings

References or instances of using content from other texts within a new work.