EAPP Reviewer: Subject-Verb Agreement, Academic Writing, and Academic Language

These flashcards cover the fundamental rules of Subject-Verb Agreement, the characteristics and structure of Academic Writing, and the distinctions between Academic and Social Language.

What is Subject-Verb Agreement (SVA)?

The grammar rule stating that the verb must agree with its subject in number: singular subjects take singular verbs, and plural subjects take plural verbs.

According to Rule 1, what form does a singular subject take in the present tense?

A singular verb, which usually ends in -s or -es.

According to Rule 1, what form does a plural subject take?

The base form of the verb.

What is the general rule for subjects joined by "and"?

Use a plural verb because there are two or more subjects.

What is the exception to the Rule 2 "and" rule?

If the two subjects refer to one idea, one thing, or one unit, use a singular verb (e.g., "Peanut butter and jelly is my favorite sandwich").

What determines the verb when subjects are joined by "or" or "nor"?

The verb agrees with the subject closest to it.

Which indefinite pronouns are always singular?

Everyone, Someone, Anybody, Nobody, Nothing, Each, Either, and Neither.

Which indefinite pronouns are always plural?

Many, Few, Several, and Both.

Which indefinite pronouns can be singular or plural depending on the noun following "of"?

All, Some, None, and Most.

When do collective nouns like "team" or "family" use a singular verb?

When the group acts as one unit (e.g., "The team wins every game").

When do collective nouns use a plural verb?

When the members of the group act individually (e.g., "The family are choosing their own meals").

What verb form do titles of books, movies, songs, and gerunds always take?

Singular verbs.

In "There Is / There Are" sentences, where is the subject found?

The subject comes after the verb.

How are amounts of time, money, and distance treated in Subject-Verb Agreement?

They use singular verbs when representing one whole unit (e.g., "Five dollars is enough").

What is Academic Writing?

A formal style of writing used in schools, colleges, and research institutions to communicate ideas, facts, and research clearly and logically.

What are three characteristics of an Academic Text?

It is critical, objective, and specialized, using facts, evidence, and logical reasoning.

What are some examples of academic texts?

Essay, Research Paper, Report, Journal Article, Thesis, and Dissertation.

What is the rule for contractions in academic formality?

Use expanded forms (e.g., "Do not" instead of "Don't").

Why are one-word verbs preferred over phrasal verbs in academic writing?

Single-word verbs are more precise (e.g., "Investigate" instead of "Look into").

What is "Objectivity" in academic writing?

Presenting information without personal opinions or emotions, focusing on facts and evidence, and using the third-person point of view.

What does "Explicitness" mean in academic writing?

Expressing ideas clearly and logically using transition words like "therefore," "however," or "consequently" to connect ideas.

What is the definition of "Caution" in academic writing?

Avoiding sweeping generalizations or statements not supported by evidence (e.g., "Many teenagers…" instead of "Teenagers are…").

What are the three major parts of an academic text structure?

Introduction, Body, and Conclusion.

What are the five purposes of Academic Text mentioned in the reviewer?

To Inform, To Explain, To Analyze, To Persuade Using Evidence, and To Present Findings and Contribute to Knowledge.

What is Academic Language?

The formal language used in schools and professional workplaces that avoids slang and focuses on facts, evidence, and precision.

What are the three layers of Academic Language?

Vocabulary, Structure (Syntax), and Discourse (Tone and Flow).

What is the difference between Cross-Disciplinary and Domain-Specific vocabulary?

Cross-Disciplinary words are used in almost every subject (e.g., "Analyze"), while Domain-Specific words are technical terms used only in a particular subject (e.g., "Photosynthesis").

How does syntax differ between Academic and Social language?

Academic syntax uses longer, more detailed sentences and the passive voice, while Social language uses simple, everyday language.

What is Social Language?

The informal, relaxed language used in everyday conversations with friends and family, often including slang, acronyms (e.g., "LOL"), and emojis.