Academic Language

Refers to the oral, written, auditory, and visual language proficiency required to learn effectively in schools and
academic programs.

It is also the language used in classroom lessons, books, tests, and assignments.

It is the language that students are expected to learn and achieve fluency.

Why academic language so important?

Students who master academic language are more likely to be successful in academic and professional settings.

What is the difference between academic language and social language?

Social Language

Repetition of words

It allows to use contemporary or slang terms like “cool, “awesome” or “dude”.

Sentences start with “and” and “but”

Academic Language

Variety of words, more sophisticated vocabulary

Sentences start with transition words, such as “however,” “moreover,” and “in addition”

No slang

Characteristics of Academic Language

FORMAL

It should not be conversional and casual. Avoid colloquial and idiomatic expressions. (dig in, cup of tea, dude, don’t)

IMPERSONAL

Do not refer to yourself as the performer of the actions.

Do not use personal pronouns.

For example:
“It is commonly said that”… instead of “Many of my friends and colleagues say that…”
“Research revealed that…” instead of “I discovered that”

PRECISE

The facts are presented accurately. The choice of words are appropriate. The use of technical terms to achieve precision
is applied.

For Example:

“85% of the population”

“The results are okay (satisfactorily)”
“asphyxiation” (medical term)

OBJECTIVE

It is unbiased, based on facts and is not influenced by personal feelings.

For Example:

“The essay on… is distressing.” instead of “I do not like the essay”