Quiz & Flashcards on Nature of Academic Texts

Study Notes

Structure of an Academic Text

Introduction presents the main topic, research question, and significance of the study.
Literature review summarizes existing research and highlights gaps in knowledge.
Methodology explains the research design, data collection, and analysis processes.
Results section presents findings with supporting data and figures.
Discussion interprets the results, linking them back to the research question and literature.
Conclusion summarizes key findings and suggests areas for further research.

Types of Texts

Non-academic texts include personal blog posts, casual articles, and fiction, which lack rigorous structure and depth.

Language in Academic Writing

Utilizes formal language, avoiding slang, colloquialisms, and overly casual phrases.
Prefers precise and clear language, with technical terminology relevant to the field of study.

Presenting Opposing Arguments

When presenting an argument contrary to one's perspective, it's essential to remain objective and fair.
Acknowledge opposing views to strengthen one's argument and demonstrate critical thinking.

Importance of Citing Sources

Citing sources enhances credibility, allowing readers to verify information and trace the origins of ideas.
It gives credit to original authors and helps avoid plagiarism, thus maintaining academic integrity.

Tone in Academic Writing

Academic writing should convey a professional and objective tone.
Avoid emotional language and personal anecdotes to maintain formality.

Starting Point of Academic Text

The starting point is typically the identification of a research problem or question that the study seeks to address.

Features of Academic Texts

Academic texts are characterized by structured format, evidence-based arguments, critical analysis, and clear referencing of sources.

Key Factor in Writing Academic Texts

Audience awareness is crucial; understanding the target audience guides the level of detail and complexity used in the writing.

Purpose of Scanning

Scanning an academic text allows readers to quickly identify key themes, concepts, and relevant information without a deep reading.

Acknowledging Sources

Acknowledging sources reinforces the foundation of arguments made and illustrates engagement with existing scholarship.

Characteristics Not Found in Academic Texts

Personal opinions without evidence and informal language are typically absent in academic texts, which rely on researched and validated content.

Description

Explore the nature and characteristics of academic texts, including essays, research papers, reports, projects, articles, theses, and dissertations. Learn about the basic structure of academic texts, which typically consist of an introduction, body, and conclusion.