Questions and Answers
What is an academic text?
Theories and concepts related to a specific discipline.
Which of the following are characteristics of academic texts? (Select all that apply)
Academic texts often use informal language.
False
What type of language is used in academic texts?
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Academic texts are ___-based.
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What are some examples of academic texts?
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Which of the following is an informal example of language?
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Phrasal verbs are a combination of a verb with either an adverb or a preposition.
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What is the purpose of formal writing?
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Match the following terms with their respective meanings:
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Language in academic texts may differ based on the ___ involved.
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Study Notes
Academic Texts
- Academic texts are theories and concepts related to specific disciplines, providing in-depth information and logical explanations.
- They contribute to the world of knowledge by being research-based, evidenced, and objective.
Nature and Characteristics
- Organized and coherent with clear and precise language.
- Impersonal tone, avoiding first-person pronouns.
- Evidence-based writing reinforces arguments and claims.
Examples of Academic Texts
- Common academic texts include articles, theses, literature reviews, formal essays, book reports, business letters, resumes, and application letters.
Language in Academic vs Informal Contexts
- Formal Language: Structured, objective tone, and professional, primarily used in academic and professional settings.
- Informal Language: Casual, spontaneous, and often subjective, common in conversations with friends and family.
Differences in Usage
- Contractions: Formal avoids them (e.g., "could not" vs. "couldn't").
- Phrasal Verbs: More precise terminology is used in formal context (e.g., "combat" vs. "fight off").
- Slang/Colloquialism: Academic writing uses standard vocabulary instead of informal expressions (e.g., "doing their best" vs. "going nuts").
Pronouns in Writing
- Formal writing favors third-person pronouns to maintain an objective perspective.
- First-person pronouns in informal writing make it more personal (e.g., "I believe" vs. "It is believed").
Structure and Purpose of Writing
- Informal Writing: Loosely structured, focuses on personal viewpoints.
- Formal Writing: Clearly stated thesis with one argument developed at a time, presenting facts and critical evaluations.
Vocabulary Differences
- Informal writing uses everyday language, slang, and contractions.
- Formal writing incorporates technical lexicon relevant to the subject and avoids personal pronouns.
Language Differences Across Disciplines
- Words can have varied meanings based on the field of study; for instance:
- "Plan": In education, refers to lesson planning; in engineering, it denotes construction specifications.
- "Table": In hospitality, refers to furniture; in statistics, it signifies data representation.
- "Vessel": In medicine, identifies a body part; in maritime context, it describes a large ship.
Summary
- Understanding the nature of academic texts, their distinctions from informal writing, and the context-specific meanings of language enhances effective communication across disciplines.
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Description
This lecture focuses on academic texts from various disciplines, providing students with essential insights into English for Academic and Professional Purposes. Discover the structure and elements that make up effective academic writing and how to apply them across different fields of study.
