Academic Writing - Key Vocabulary

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to academic writing, including terms for essay structure, writing principles, paragraph development, and editing processes.

Outline

A structured plan for writing an essay that includes key points and structure.

Thesis Statement

A concise summary of the main point or claim of the essay.

General Statement

An introductory statement that provides background information on the essay topic.

Concluding Paragraph

The final paragraph of an essay that summarizes the main points and restates the thesis.

Development Paragraphs

Sections of the essay that elaborate on the thesis and provide supporting arguments.

Academic Essay

A formal piece of writing that presents a coherent argument on a specific topic.

Paragraph Development

The process of creating paragraphs that are structured around a single main idea.

Unity

The quality of a paragraph where all ideas are connected and support the main idea.

Coherence

The clarity and logical flow of ideas within a paragraph.

Topic Sentence

A sentence that states the main idea of a paragraph.

Brainstorming

A technique for generating ideas and solutions through spontaneous discussion.

Revision

The process of reviewing and improving the content and organization of a piece of writing.

Editing

The process of correcting grammar, punctuation, and style in writing.

Instructional Terms

Words in an essay question that indicate the required response or method of approach.

Mind Map

A visual representation of ideas and concepts to generate thinking and planning.

Word Limit

A specified maximum number of words that an essay must adhere to.

Sources

Materials such as books, articles, and websites that provide information for writing.

Audience Consideration

Understanding the audience's knowledge, expectations, and needs when writing.

Argument

A reasoned opinion or claim that is supported by evidence within the essay.

Research Findings

Data or conclusions drawn from systematic investigations used to support arguments.

Transitions

Words or phrases that help connect ideas smoothly in writing.

Persuasive Paragraph

A paragraph designed to convince the reader of a particular point of view.

Expository Paragraph

A paragraph that explains something or provides instructions.

Narrative Paragraph

A paragraph that tells a story or recounts events in a sequence.

Descriptive Paragraph

A paragraph that uses vivid details to describe a person, place, or thing.

Compare and Contrast Paragraph

A paragraph that examines similarities and differences between two subjects.

Cause and Effect Paragraph

A paragraph analyzing reasons and results of particular events or situations.

Completeness

A principle of writing ensuring all necessary information is included.

Conciseness

Using as few words as possible to convey meaning without losing clarity.

Correctness

The accuracy of language mechanics such as grammar and spelling.

Clarity

The quality of being easily understood and free from ambiguity.

Courtesy

The quality of being polite and considerate in written communication.

Homework Assignment

A task assigned to students to work on outside of class.

Critical Analysis

A detailed examination and evaluation of a text or argument.

Draft

An initial version of a piece of writing before revisions.

Salient Points

Key or most important points in the writing.

Expert Opinion

Views and conclusions drawn from authorities in a particular field.

Mechanics

The rules of writing, including punctuation and spelling.

Style

The unique way in which a writer expresses their ideas through language.

Structure

The arrangement of parts or elements in a written work.

Formatting

The organization and presentation style of written documents.