EAPP 11: Origins of Language, Contexts & Restrictions of Academic Writing, Definition of Terms

Bow-Wow Theory

A theory that suggests language began by imitating natural sounds (e.g., animal cries, environmental noises).

Pooh-Pooh Theory

Originated from instinctive emotional interjections like pain, joy, or surprise (e.g., “Ouch!” or “Wow!”).

Ding-Dong Theory

A theory that suggests speech arose in harmony with the natural essence of objects—sounds matched their meanings.

Revelationist Theory

Language was divinely gifted to humans by God, not invented by humans.

Revelationist-Conventionalist

God provided a foundational language, which humans then expanded upon.

KISS Principle

Keep It Short and Simple

Coherence

Refers to the arrangement of ideas.

Emphasis

Highlighting the most important points in writing.

Unity

All ideas in a paragraph relate to a single main idea.

Language

Method of human communication (spoken or written).

Lingua Franca

A commonly used language for communication between speakers of different native languages.

Context Clues

Hints in a text that help readers understand unfamiliar words.

Communication Process

• The exchange of understanding between sender and receiver.

• Offers understanding amid the communicative transaction.

Denotation

The literal meaning of a word.

Connotation

The implied or emotional meaning of a word.

Paraphrase

Restating information in your own words to show understanding.

Thesis Statement

A clear, concise sentence, usually at the end of the introduction, stating the main idea or argument of an essay/research paper.

• Tells the reader:

1. What the paper is about

2. The writer’s position or opinion

3. The main points to be discussed or proven

Slang

Informal or casual language.

Contraction

Shortening of words. (e.g., it is → it’s)

Redundancy

Unnecessary repetition of words & definitions. (e.g., “etc.” means “and others,” so saying “and etc.” would equate to “and and others.”)

Verbal Deadwood

Stretching sentences.

Fragmented Sentences

Incomplete sentences.

Double Negative

Using two negatives in a sentence (e.g., “I don’t have no time”).

Double Comparison

Using two comparative forms (e.g., “more better”).