Academic Text and Language Essentials

Flashcards based on lecture notes regarding the characteristics of academic texts, types of writing, and the distinction between academic and social language.

Academic Text

A text written by professionals in a given field, well-edited, and often taking years to publish, using formal language and specific jargons.

Jargons

Words and terms specific to a particular field of study or profession.

Persuasive Academic Text

A type of text that includes argument, recommendation, interpretation, or evaluation of the work of others with the addition of one's own point of view, supported by evidence.

Descriptive Academic Text

A text that provides facts and information to identify, report, record, summarize, or define, such as a case study.

Analytical Academic Text

A text that organizes facts and information into categories, groups, parts, types, or relationships, such as research.

Critical Thinking Academic Text

A text that requires the author to consider at least two points of view, including their own, to critique, debate, disagree, and evaluate.

Non-Academic Texts

Texts that usually deliver simple basic information, are easily understood by any reader, and are personal, emotional, impressionistic, or subjective in nature.

Complexity

A characteristic of academic text addressing complex issues that require higher-order thinking skills.

Citation

The practice of acknowledging the source of ideas, research, findings, data, or quoted text within a paper to avoid plagiarism.

Evidence-based arguments

Opinions based on credible data, facts, and research findings rather than personal opinions or beliefs.

Tone

The attitude conveyed in a piece of writing where arguments are fairly presented.

Academic Language (Characteristic)

The use of formal language, third-person point of view, and specific jargons without using ambiguous words.

Structure

The formal, logical, and cohesive arrangement of various parts connected to form a unified whole.

Thesis-driven

A characteristic where the starting point of a text is a particular perspective, idea, or position applied to a chosen research problem.

Social Language

Simple, informal language used when talking with family and friends that allows the use of contemporary or slang terms.

Academic Language (Definition)

The oral, written, auditory, and visual proficiency required to learn effectively in schools and describe complex ideas.

Audience

The 'who' factor that shapes academic writing.

Purpose

The 'why' factor that shapes academic writing.

Organization

The 'how' factor that shapes academic writing.

Style

The 'what' factor that shapes academic writing.

Academic English in Science

Helps explain experiments, chemical reactions, and scientific concepts clearly.

Academic English in Mathematics

Helps students understand and explain solutions, formulas, and problem-solving processes.

Academic English in Social Sciences

Helps students present arguments, discuss issues, and write research papers effectively in fields like Psychology and Sociology.

Academic English in Engineering

Allows students to write reports and communicate technical information clearly to others.

Academic English in Business and Industry

Assists professionals in communicating plans, ideas, and information effectively with clients and coworkers.