Effective Communication, Text Properties, and Conversation Strategies

Vocabulary flashcards focusing on properties of well-written text, methods of organization, coherence, cohesion, writing mechanics, personal/interpersonal communication topics, conversation strategies, and politeness markers.

Unity

A property of a well-written text meaning that all parts serve just one purpose—to elaborate or expound on the main idea conveyed.

Connectedness

The ability to weave ideas together in a text so that they flow logically and ensure the whole text makes sense.

Organization

The logical arrangement of ideas in a text to make it easier for readers to understand the intended message.

Order

The choice of what ideas or details to mention first, second, next, and so on in writing.

Deductive Approach

An organizational method where the main or general idea is expressed at the start of the message, followed by supporting details, examples, and illustrations.

Inductive Approach

An organizational method that proceeds from specific details to general ideas, summarizing everything into a main idea at the end.

Chronological Order

A method of organization used to explain history, tell a story, explain how to do/make something, or list steps in a process.

Spatial Order

A method of organization used to help readers visualize something or create a main impression using the senses.

Order of Importance

A method of organization used to persuade or rank items by their importance, benefit, or significance.

Coherence

The overall oneness of ideas, sentences, and paragraphs in a text, attained when all relevant ideas stick together logically using transitional devices.

Cohesion

The grammatical aspect of writing at the sentence level that keeps text clear by ensuring words signal reference to the same thing.

In-Group Jargon

Specialized language, slang words, shared expressions, or inside jokes used by people within a group of like-minded individuals.

Mechanics

The conventions writers follow regarding the correct use of punctuation, spelling, format, capitalization, abbreviations, contractions, acronyms, and numerals.

Personal Topics

Conversation subjects focused on self-awareness, personal values, personal goals, mental health, personal identity, and self-care.

Interpersonal Topics

Conversation subjects focused on conflict resolution, communication, empathy, leadership, teamwork, negotiation, networking, and building relationships.

Conversation Strategies

Actions or techniques speakers use to start, maintain, manage, show engagement, respond, and end conversations effectively.

Topic Nomination

The act of introducing or initiating a topic or conversation to open interaction.

Topic Control

A conversation strategy focused on keeping the discussion centered on the main topic.

Topic Shift

A strategy involving a change from one subject to another within a conversation.

Turn-taking

The organized process by which speakers alternate speaking roles during interaction.

Back Channeling

Small verbal or nonverbal signals given by a listener to show attention and active listening without interrupting the speaker.

Feedback-Giving

The act of responding to a message with comments, reactions, or questions to demonstrate understanding and clarify communication.

Topic Termination

The strategy of appropriately ending a conversation or discussion.

Politeness Markers

Expressions that indicate awareness of another person's face needs, often taking the form of indirect language, modals, or softening phrases to mitigate imposition or disagreement.