Midterm-Topics-Reviewer.pdf

ensure that the final product will be well structured, with a clear MIDTERM REVIEWER in EAPP focus and logical progression of ideas. 5. BALANCED - giving co...

ensure that the final product will be well structured, with a clear MIDTERM REVIEWER in EAPP focus and logical progression of ideas. 5. BALANCED - giving consideration to all sides of the issue and Prepared by Sir Ian Tulauan avoiding bias. Use hedging, or 'being cautious', is an important FOR S12A, S12B, S12C, S12D, S12E, S12F, and A11D ONLY component of academic style to make a claim less absolute. For example, when giving a hypothesis or presenting results. (The evidence suggests... or this could be caused by... the research Lesson 1 (Academic Writing) indicates.) 6. EVIDENCE-BASED - use of in-text citations and a reference Academic Text section. defined as critical, objective, specialized texts written by experts 7. CRITICAL - it’s not enough to just describe or summarize or professionals in a given field using formal language. evidence, you also need to analyze and evaluate information and based on facts with a solid basis. use it to build your own arguments. formal, objective (impersonal), and technical. 8. SPECIFIC - uses accurate and exact words and phrases, and avoids wordiness (verbosity), and redundant or unnecessary words. Non-Academic Text personal, emotional, impressionistic, or subjective in nature. Macro Skills in Communication more informal and rely more heavily on emotional appeal or the opinions of the author. 1. Reading 2. Writing 3. Listening Characteristics of Academic Writing (FOPSBECS) 4. Speaking 1. FORMAL - tends to use longer words and more complex sentences, while avoiding contractions and colloquial or informal The Structure of Academic Writing words or expressions that might be common in spoken English. 2. OBJECTIVE - the emphasis is placed on the arguments and relies on facts and the use of straightforward, scholarly manner information, rather than on the writer. As a result, academic writing and businesslike language. tends to use nouns and noun phrases more than verbs and its purpose is to proficiently impart the writer's message in the most concise way possible. adverbs. It also tends to use more passive structures, rather than active voice. aims to inform the readers or report a set of findings and articulate 3. PRECISE - to ensure the reader understands the meaning. This issues in a scholarly manner. includes the use of technical vocabulary for other disciplines to uses specific data and other empirical evidence to back up a claim. understand. 4. STRUCTURED - should be coherent, with logical progression Two Common Structures throughout, and cohesive, with the different parts of the writing clearly connected. Careful planning before writing is essential to 1. The Three-Part Essay Structure  basic structure or IBC format The kinds of instructions for a purely descriptive Introduction - purpose to clearly tell the readers the topic, assignment include: 'identify', 'report', 'record', purpose, and structure of the paper and might be 10-20% 'summarize' and 'define'. of the length of the whole paper. 2. Analytical Writing Body - elaborate directly on the topic sentence by giving not just about describing and defining, but also definitions, classifications, explanations, contrasts, rearranging the facts in a logical sequence examples, and evidence and the heart of the essay for analyzation, comparing, contrasting, relating, examining, expounding sentences. Usually the largest part. and categorizing Conclusion - begins by summarizing the main scope and Analytical writing includes descriptive writing but also ends with a more general statement about how the topic requires you to re-organize the facts and information you relates to its context. This is related to the intro and called describe into categories, groups, parts, types, or “mirror image” as the intro begins with general info and relationships. ends with specific info, the conclusion is the opposite of The kinds of instructions for an analytical assignment this. include: 'analyze', 'compare', 'contrast', 'relate', and 'examine’. 2. IMRAD Structure for thesis and dissertation and intended for an educated audience related to the area of discipline. 3. Persuasive Writing Introduction, Methods, Results and Discussion are the purpose is to convince the readers of an argument whose sections of the IMRAD structure. varied angles you thoroughly analyzed and would like to Introduction - depicts the background of the topic/central defend focus. evaluate other writers’ opinions about the topic and be Methodology - data collection methods and procedures mindful of the assumptions you’re going to make Results and Discussion - a brief summary of the key as all the features of analytical writing with the addition of findings or the results of the study. your own point of view The kinds of instructions for a persuasive assignment include: 'argue', 'evaluate', 'discuss', and 'take a position’. Rhetorical Patterns Used in Academic Writing 4. Critical Writing requires you to evaluate, assess, debate, critique, 1. Descriptive Writing disagree, and consider most basic of all types expected to weigh not just your own assumptions, but also explains a topic or issue by clarifying and giving the merits of alternative arguments information through a description It has all the features of persuasive writing, with the added it can be done by identifying, explaining, reporting, feature of at least one other point of view recording, and summarizing. While persuasive writing requires you to have your own point of view on an issue or topic, critical writing requires  you to consider at least two points of view, including your Determining the Writer’s Tone own. 1. FORMAL - to distinguish it from informal types of writing like letters The kinds of instructions for critical writing include: and essays 'critique', 'debate', 'disagree', and 'evaluate’. 2. CASUAL – used for non-academic topics because this is more conversational The Language Used in Academic Writing 3. SARCASTIC - expressing dissatisfaction and used to lighten the impact uses professional and businesslike language to sound scholarly free of jargon, colloquial expressions, and politically incorrect terms Writing Considerations for Academic Papers uses language that is concise, precise, formal, logical, and PURPOSE of writing must be clear – language, style, and tone inclusive must be appropriate to convey your purpose. It is formal by avoiding casual or conversational language, such as The LANGUAGE used in writing must be appropriate and formal. contractions or informal vocabulary. It is impersonal and objective AUDIENCE’s knowledge and background must be considered. by avoiding direct reference to people or feelings, and instead Your audience will determine the language of your paper. emphasizing objects, facts, and ideas. STATEMENTS must be backed up with strong and valid evidence it should be explicit, formal, and factual as well as objective and that involves deliberate, thorough, and careful thought – research. analytical in nature. Determining the Relevance of the Text Topics, Themes, and Ideas for Academic Writing 1. Literal Meaning choice of topic is an important factor in academic writing No hidden meanings are disguised in the form of satire or topics may range from strictly academic topics to personal issues sarcasm, double meanings, or puzzling statements. be prepared for data-gathering and immerse yourself in the What is stated = what actually appears in the text procedure to arrive at valid, scientific, and empirical evidence. 2. Implied Meaning must cite facts and counterarguments “a conclusion that can be drawn from something, the output should be written in a style and manner that suits although it is not explicitly stated” academic writing This kind of meaning can only be arrived at after analyzing the hidden or implied meaning of the text. Determining the Writer’s Purpose 1. INFORM – seeks to inform, teach, and add knowledge LESSON 2 (Reading Academic Texts) 2. ENTERTAIN – seeks to entertain in the form of creative non-fiction 3. PERSUADE – influence readers to take a particular stance or belief Academic writing is a PROCESS that starts with posting a question, (cause and effect) problematizing a concept, evaluating an opinion, and ends in answering 4. INSPIRE – uplift or lighten someone’s mood the question or questions posted, clarifying the problem, or arguing for a stand. SQ3R (Survey-Question-Read-Recite-Review) 1. SKIMMING Skimming reading is a fast-reading technique used to The method was introduced by Francis P. Robinson, an American quickly identify key ideas, facts, and figures in a text. education philosopher in his 1946 book Effective Study. The Skimming is used to get a general understanding of the method offers a more efficient and active approach to reading content or to identify the main topics. textbook material. 2. SCANNING is a comprehension. strategy that helps students think about the Scanning reading is a reading technique that involves text they are reading while they're reading. quickly skimming a text in order to locate specific information. Scanning reading requires the reader to skim the text in What is critical? order to quickly identify the desired information. inclined to find fault or criticism pertaining to a crisis or turning point Ramage, Bean, and Johnson (2006) identified the following requirements extremely important for critical thinking: relating to criticism or careful analysis, such as literary or film criticism. The ability to pose questions The ability to analyze a problem in all its dimensions – to define its Critical reading involves SCRUTINIZING any information that you read or key terms, determine its causes, understand its history, appreciate hear. It means NOT EASILY BELIEVING information offered to you by text. its human dimension and its connection to one’s own personal “CRITICAL Reading is an active process of discovery.” – Gary Goshgarian. experience, and appreciate what makes it complex The interaction happens when you question the writer’s claims and The ability to find, gather, and interpret data, facts, and other assertions; and when you comment on the writer’s ideas. information relevant to the problem The ability to analyze competing approaches and answers, to construct arguments for and against alternatives, and to choose Why do we need to comprehend? the best solution in the light of values, objectives, and other criteria that you determine and articulate Reading comprehension helps us better understand the written The ability to write an effective argument justifying your choice word and how to effectively communicate with others. while acknowledging counterarguments It enables us to extract and comprehend meaningful information from the text. Reading Strategies and Techniques It helps us to build on our existing knowledge and develop our 1. ANNOTATE WHAT YOU READ critical thinking skills. One of the ways to interact with the writer is to WRITE ON It increases our vocabulary and improves our writing and speaking THE TEXT. You can underline, circle, or highlight words, abilities. phrases, or sentences that contain important details, or you can write marginal notes asking questions or commenting on the ideas of the writer. SKIMMING VS. SCANNING  There are no clear or definite guidelines for annotating a Written texts are shorter and THE LANGUAGE HAS MORE text; you can create your own style. For instance, you can GRAMMATICAL COMPLEXITY, including more subordinate clauses and circle unfamiliar words or underline ideas that you think are more passives. questionable. 2. OUTLINE THE TEXT In order to fully engage in a dialogue with the text or with 5 Features of Academic Language the writer of the text, YOU NEED TO IDENTIFY THE MAIN POINTS OF THE WRITER AND LIST THEM DOWN so you 1. FORMALITY can also identify the ideas that the writer has raised to Reflects the dignified stance in writing as a member of the support his/her stand. academic community. You don’t necessarily have to write a structured sentence The language you use requires precision to make it a or topic outline for this purpose; you can just write a bullet “legitimate” piece of academic writing. or in numbers. formality can be achieved through the following ways: 3. SUMMARIZE THE TEXT choosing expanded modal forms over contracted forms, Aside from outlining, you can also get the main points of choosing one-verb form over two-word verbs, choosing the text you are reading and WRITE ITS GIST IN YOUR expanded terms over their abbreviated equivalents, and OWN WORDS. This will test how much you have avoiding colloquial/slang/idiomatic expressions. understood the text and will help you evaluate it critically. 2. OBJECTIVITY A summary is usually one paragraph long. Academic Writing requires special knowledge and the use 4. EVALUATE THE TEXT of more complex language and general objectives. The most challenging part of critical reading is the process based on facts and evidence and an unbiased style of of EVALUATING WHAT YOU ARE READING. This is the writing point where the other three techniques – annotating, Objectivity can be achieved by: avoiding the use of outlining, and summarizing – will be helpful. personal pronouns, avoiding rhetorical questions, and avoiding emotive language that shows biases and lessens objectivity. 3. EXPLICITNESS LESSON 3 (Features of Academic Language) EXPLICIT – to fully & clearly express something Academic writing in English is LINEAR, which means it has one central Academic writing demands the USE OF SIGNPOSTS & point or theme with every part contributing to the main line of argument, SIGNALS that allow readers to trace the relationships in without digressions or repetitions. the parts of a study. Make use of TRANSITIONAL MARKERS to guide readers WRITTEN language is relatively more complex than spoken language. It 4. CAUTION has language that has longer words, it is lexically denser, and it has a more Academic writing requires care since knowledge is built varied vocabulary. It uses more noun-based phrases than verb-based from proven theories and concepts. phrases. Therefore, caution is needed to avoid sweeping generalizations.  Use these devices to observe caution: modal verbs, It is a one-sentence summary that guides, controls and unifies adverbs of frequency, and verbs indicating caution ideas when writing a paper. The concept of cautious language, often called "hedging" Present the topic of your paper and also make a comment about or "vague language" is the use of linguistic devices to your position in relation to the topic. express hesitation or uncertainty, as well as to You can think of a thesis statement as the "glue" that holds a piece demonstrate politeness and indirectness. of persuasive writing together. 5. STRUCTURE The thesis statement comes as a result of pre-writing. Sentences need to be constructed in such a way that they show a level of complexity that reflects the sophistication of an academic writer. Format of a Thesis Statement COMBINING IDEAS EFFECTIVELY - This involves the skill of connecting and integrating multiple ideas within a Topic + Position + Reasons (3 variables) + Concession sentence or paragraph. It's important to create logical and Do not forget that a thesis statement is different from a topic sentence. A cohesive relationships between different points you're thesis statement is the central idea of the whole paper while a topic making. sentence is the main idea of one paragraph only. In a short explanation, a NOMINALIZATION - Nominalization is the process of thesis statement has a wider scope of ideas than a topic sentence. turning verbs or adjectives into nouns. This technique can add a level of formality and precision to your writing. It allows you to express complex ideas in a concise manner. Components of a Thesis Statement PASSIVATION - This refers to the process of making the object of an action the subject of a sentence. In other 1. TOPIC – the general subject of the text or essay words, it allows you to emphasize what is being acted E.g., Coronavirus upon rather than the doer of the action. This can be 2. POSITION/CONTROLLING IDEA – the view, stand, opinion, or particularly useful when the focus should be on the result feeling or outcome of an action. E.g., People should strictly follow health protocols. 3. REASONS/SUB-TOPIC – explanation or justification of your position Lesson 4 (Thesis Statement) E.g., to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus 4. CONCESSION – opposing viewpoint, counterargument What Is a Thesis Statement? A declarative sentence and not a question. Serves as the backbone of a paper Types of Thesis Statements A sentence that expresses an attitude, condition, opinion, 1. Explicit – straightforward and obviously written in the text. It is position, or feeling about the subject. usually located at the end of an introduction It’s a road map as it tells the reader what to expect from the rest 2. Implicit – not written in a text and the readers will be the ones to of the paper. formulate based on their understanding of the text.  Check if you need to define your terms (“society”, “socialism”, “commercialism”) and then decide on the most appropriate place How Are Thesis Statements Used? to do so. A thesis statement is usually stated clearly in the introductory Use your own words and avoid quoting as it will make a distinct paragraph of a persuasive text and repeated again (in slightly impression on the readers. You will lose credibility if you plagiarize different words) throughout the body paragraphs, and in the or only become a copyist. On the other hand, you will gain conclusion paragraph as well. credibility by putting your own words and ideas together. Throughout the body paragraphs, this thesis statement is A well-crafted thesis statement signals a writer who has reinforced and elaborated upon. Each paragraph should intelligence, commitment, and enthusiasm. contribute to supporting and strengthening the main argument. This helps maintain a consistent focus on the central idea. In the conclusion paragraph, the thesis statement is revisited, Maintaining a formal style in crafting a thesis statement is essential for though not in a repetitive manner. Instead, it's restated in slightly several reasons: different words to provide a sense of closure and reinforce the 1. Credibility: A formal tone lends credibility to your statement. It main message of the text. This helps to leave a lasting impression conveys a sense of professionalism and expertise, which can on the reader regarding the key point being made. make your argument more convincing. Thesis statements provide structure to persuasive writing and 2. Clarity and Precision: Formal language tends to be more help readers to understand where the writing is headed. precise and clearer. This ensures that your thesis statement is easily understood by a wide audience. 3. Respect for the Audience: Using a formal style shows respect Formulating a Thesis Statement for your readers. It acknowledges their intelligence and their You should provide a thesis statement at the introduction or expectation of a well-structured, well-researched argument. beginning of your essay to establish your position and give your 4. Academic Standards: In academic and professional settings, a readers a sense of direction. formal style aligns with established norms. It demonstrates As advice, do not bury your thesis statement in the middle of your that you understand and can adhere to the expected essay or late in the paper. standards of writing. Be as clear and as specific as possible; avoid vague words (You 5. Professionalism: If your thesis is intended for academic or will continue to refine your thesis as you revise your argument/s, professional evaluation, a formal style is a reflection of your so your thesis will evolve and gain definition as you obtain a better professionalism. It shows that you take the task seriously and sense of where your argument is taking you.) are committed to presenting your ideas in a rigorous and scholarly manner. 6. Avoiding Bias: A formal style helps to minimize personal biases Tips for Writing a Thesis Statement and emotional language. This ensures that your argument is based on evidence and logical reasoning rather than Avoid technical language/ jargon unless you are confident that subjective opinions. your audience will be familiar with it.  Remember, a formal style in writing not only enhances the quality Introduce the topic of the essay, (in other words, inform of your thesis statement but also helps establish you as a competent and the reader of and provide a context for the topic being reliable communicator on the topic at hand. discussed) Introduce the main idea (otherwise known as the thesis or claim) of the essay; Introduce the purpose of the essay Lesson 5 (Essay and its components) (will it inform, argue, persuade, describe, narrate, classify, etc.?). What is an essay? Parts of an Introduction An essay is a short piece of writing that aims to provide information about a certain topic from a limited or personal point Hook - The first sentence of the introduction should of view. captivate your reader’s interest. One of the most important skills to develop is writing strong Background Information - Give an overview of essays efficiently. AND THE FOUNDATION OF THAT SKILL IS important academic work or debates on the topic and KNOWING HOW TO STRUCTURE AN ESSAY. explain difficult terms Every great essay has three (3) essential parts. While the Thesis Statement - It is the most important part of your structure might sound simple, including all the essential essay because it provides focus and signals your components for each part is important. position on the topic 2. BODY The way you structure your essay is crucial to presenting composed of paragraphs that focus on each topic your argument coherently. A well-structured essay helps your reader presented in the argument. follow the logic of your ideas and understand your overall point. An essay includes body paragraphs, which develop the The structure of an essay is divided into an introduction that presents main idea (thesis or claim) of the essay. your topic and thesis statement, a body containing your in-depth analysis An effective body paragraph should: and arguments, and a conclusion that wraps up your ideas. Explain, illustrate, discuss, or provide evidence to Components of an Essay support the main idea (thesis or claim) of the essay; 1. INTRODUCTION Discuss only one aspect of the main idea (whenever An essay begins with a brief introduction, which prepares you move on to a new supporting point, start a new the audience to read the essay. body paragraph) Work together with the other body paragraphs to An effective introduction should: support your essay’s main idea Catch the reader’s attention, which can be done, for Work together with the other body paragraphs to example, by using a direct announcement, a quotation, a create a clear, cohesive paper (clarity and coherence question, a definition, an unusual comparison, or a can be achieved through the use of transitions). controversial position  Parts of a Body A Challenge or a Question - a memorable or impactful sentence that leaves the reader with a strong final Topic Sentence - introduces the main idea of the impression. paragraph and does not begin with a pronoun or a subordinating conjunction. Supporting Details - refer to the sentences that LESSON 6 (The Writing Process) develop the main idea of the paragraph and elaborate on the topic by discussing relevant Good academic writing requires effective planning, drafting, and revision. content, data, and evidence. An excellent piece of writing is not easily produced in a short period of Concluding Sentence - it serves as a closure to the time. idea in the paragraph. it can either summarize the ideas, or provide comments, or suggestions. WRITING IS NOT AN EASY TASK – it takes patience, energy, and a lot of 3. CONCLUSION brain work. ends with a brief conclusion, which brings the essay to a 1. PREWRITING logical end. 2. DRAFTING An effective conclusion should: 3. REVISING 4. EDITING Provide closure for the reader by reviewing the main points 5. PUBLISHING (make sure that this review is brief – after all, these points have already been fully developed in the body Stages in Writing paragraphs), linking the main idea of the essay to a larger 1. PREWRITING issue, predicting an outcome related to the main idea, Browse through different reference materials, brainstorm giving an opinion, or using a quotation that helps sum up with a group, interview knowledgeable persons, write an essential aspect of your main point reflections, and jot down whatever. Remind readers of the primary focus of the essay, which 2. DRAFTING can be done by restating the main idea in different words; After writing an outline, write your first draft. Let your ideas Parts of a Conclusion lead you in developing your topic and turn it into an essay. 3. REVISING Restated Thesis Statement - restates the main Review your essay and check if you have achieved your arguments in a simplified yet still parallel manner goal in writing. (paraphrased thesis statement using synonyms or 4. EDITING antonyms) Check your writing style and accuracy. Summarized Main Points - it provides additional 5. PUBLISHING explanation supporting your argument and it ties Presenting your final work together your main points. Properties of a Well-Written Text Run-on sentences, fragments, dangling participles, and faulty parallelism among others, are easy to miss if you 1. ORGANIZATION aren’t familiar with them. A well-organized paper has a clearly recognizable plan, 4. SUBJECT-VERB AGREEMENT that is the ideas move from sentence in a logical way and The subject and verb in a sentence must agree in number. from paragraph to paragraph in an appropriate If the subject is singular, the verb must be singular. organizational plan. 5. CAPITALIZATION 2. COHERENCE Capitalization signals to a reader the important details in a A piece of writing is focused and coherent if it keeps to the sentence. Following capitalization rules helps to maintain topic and is clear and supported by connected details. order in written text. Coherence is about having a unified argument that can 6. PUNCTUATION clearly be understood by the reader Using the correct punctuation gives you the ability to 3. LANGUAGE USED convey your ideas to the reader exactly as you intended. In order to choose the most effective language, the writer These are used to clarify relationships between words, must consider the objective of the document, the context phrases, and clauses in a sentence. in which it is being written, and who will be reading it. 7. SPELLING 4. MECHANICS When a word is misspelled or is mistakenly substituted for This refers to the correct use of all spelling, punctuation, a word with a meaning that is inconsistent with the ideas capitalization grammar usage, and sentence structure surrounding it, the inaccuracy can create confusion in the rules. mind of the reader. WRITING MECHANICS are the established rules that 8. ABBREVIATIONS should be followed when writing sentences. Never use abbreviations that aren’t familiar to your readers unless you’re trying to hide the meaning intentionally. 9. HOMONYMS, HOMOGRAPHS, AND HOMOPHONES Rules on Grammar and Writing Mechanics A lot of words sound alike or are spelled alike but have 1. PARTS OF SPEECH different meanings and spellings. The classifications of parts of speech such as nouns, 10. ELIMINATING REDUNDANCY verbs, and adjectives among others is one of the most If you must repeat words, try to space them out so that important things to know if you’re a writer. It’s not they don’t seem too jarring. If you run out of synonyms, necessary to be familiar with the definitions of each but you could always use the negative of an antonym to knowing how to use them properly is. convey the same idea. 2. PARTS OF SENTENCES Knowing the parts of sentences such as subjects, objects, phrases, and clauses helps to give your sentences cohesion 3. SENTENCE ERRORS REMEMBER!!! These are just additional information: What is a concept paper? ✓ A concept paper is a document that involves an in-depth discussion of an idea or a theory. It typically provides a detailed explanation and analysis of a particular concept or topic. This is an important distinction to understand, as it is a common requirement in academic and professional settings. ✓ A concept paper serves as a preliminary output to academic research. It provides an overview of the proposed research project, including the research question, objectives, methodology, and potential significance of the study. This document helps to outline the direction and scope of the research before the actual study is conducted. Praying and hoping that the students who will use this reviewer will get a high score and will pass this subject