Objectives

• differentiate language used in academic texts from various disciplines

• determine the structure of a specific academic text
• explain the specific ideas contained in various academic texts

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 Introduction to
Academic Writing

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Activity:
• categorize the information based on their
characteristics below by filling in the
table to differentiate academic text from
non-academic text
Activity:
Everyday Events To inform and/or validate idea To entertain
Scholarly audience Related Contains slang and colloquialisms Subjective
literature Research papers, Introduction-Body-Conclusion No fixed structure
Reports Public Diaries, Informal essays Objective
Formal

Characteristics Academic Text Non-Academic Text

Audience
Purpose
Structure
Language
Style
Source of content
Examples
 Definitions of Academic
• refers to formalWriting
writing done for
educational purposes
• is characterized by a clear and
concise style
• requires the use of evidence,
citations, and proper referencing
 Types of Academic Writing
• Research papers
• Persuasive essays
• Expository essays
• Reflective essays
Purposes in Reading Academic Texts
• To locate a main idea;
• To scan for information;
• To identify gaps in existing studies;
• To connect new ideas to existing ones;
• To gain more pieces of information;
• To support a particular writing assignment; and
• To deeply understand an existing idea.
 Key Characteristics of Academic
Writing
• Objectivity and impartiality
• Formal tone and language
• Structured organization
 Tone of Academic Writing
• This refers to the attitude conveyed in a piece of
writing. The arguments of others are fairly
presented and with an appropriate narrative tone.
• When presenting a position or argument that
disagrees with one’s perspectives, describe the
argument accurately without loaded or biased
language.
 Language of Academic Writing
• Use unambiguous language.
• Use clear topic sentences, so readers can follow
your line of thinking without difficulty.
• Use formal language and the third person point- of-
view.
• You may use technical language appropriate to area
of study; however, it does not mean using “big
words” just for the sake of doing so.
 Citation in Academic Writing
• Citing sources in the body of the paper and
providing a list of references as either footnotes or
endnotes is a very important aspect of an academic
text.
• Always acknowledge the source of any ideas,
research findings, data, or quoted text that have
been used in a paper as a defense against
allegations of plagiarism.
 According to Lualhati (2023)
• .
……. (Lualhati, 2023).
Other Key Features of Academic Writing
• Complexity: An academic text addresses complex
issues that require higher-order thinking skills to
comprehend.
• Evidence-based Arguments: What is valued in an
academic text is that opinions are based on a
sound understanding of the pertinent body of
knowledge and academic debates that exist within,
and often external to a specific discipline.
•
Other Key Features of Academic Writing
• Thesis-driven: The starting point of an
academic text is a particular perspective,
idea or position applied to the chosen
research problem, such as establishing,
proving, or disproving solutions to the
questions posed for the topic.
 Structure and Components of
Academic Paper
• Introduction
• Body paragraphs
• Conclusion
• References
 Factors to Consider in Writing
Academic Text
• State critical questions and issues;
• Provide facts and evidence from credible sources;
• Use precise and accurate words while avoiding
jargon;
• Take an objective point of view;
• List references; and
• Use cautious language.
 Academic Language
• the language needed by students to do the
work in schools
• Includes grammar and punctuation, and
applications of rhetorical conventions and
devices that are typical for a content area
(e.g., essays, lab reports, discussions of a
controversial issue.)
 Social Language Academic Language
In everyday interactions in In textbooks, research papers, conferences in
spoken/written form spoken/written form
For everyday conversation Used in school/work conversations
Used to write to friends, family, or for Appropriate for written papers, classwork,
other social purposes homework
Informal, such as words like ''cool,'' Very formal and more sophisticated in its
''guy,'' ''kidding'') expressions, such as words like
''appropriate,'' ''studies,''
''implementation''
Can use slang expressions Don't use slang
Can be repetitive Uses a variety of terms
Can use phrases Uses sentences
Sentences don't follow grammar Sentences begin with appropriate transitions,
conventions necessarily, with phrases like, like, ''moreover'' or ''in addition'')
''you're hungry?''
Quiz #1:
• Match the informal vocabulary in the list
below with the more appropriate formal
options from the box.
Revise, review Commence, initiate, Solve, repair, amend
undertake
Confirm, Satisfactorily, positive, Consider, monitor,
analyze
determine favorable
Somewhat, fairly Demonstrate, indicate, A great deal of, many
illustrate
Reasonable

1. go over 5. look at 9. make sure

2. show 6. a lot of 10. quite good
3. begin 7. a bit
4. good 8. fix
 References
• Ma. Ragie P. Tabotabo. English for Academic and Professional Purposes, Quarter 1-Module 1: Academic
Language. Cebu City: Department of Education, 2020.
https://bnvhsmodules.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/EAPP-Module-1.pdf.
• Monash University. "Using Academic Language." Research & Learning Online. Last modified February 23, 2020.
https://www.monash.edu/rlo/research-writing-assignments/writing/features-of-academic-writing/academic-
language#top.
• "Social & Academic Language Acquisition: Differences & Characteristics." Study.com. April 16, 2020.
https://study.com/academy/lesson/social-academic-language- acquisition-differences-characteristics.html.
• Structure and Features of Academic Text. 2016. https://
www.slideshare.net/pokray/structure-and-features-of-academic-text.
• "Text Structure Activities, Projects, and Resources." Ereading Worksheets. https://
www.ereadingworksheets.com/text-structure/text- structure-activities/.
• "The Structure of Academic Texts." Lnu.se. Accessed
August 2, 2021. https://lnu.se/en/library/Writing-and-referencing/the-structure-of-academic- texts/.
• UEFAP. Features of Academic Writing. n.d. Accessed August
2,2021 https://www.uefap.com/writing/feature/featfram.htm.
 Four Types of
Academic Paper

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 Objectives
• determine the structure of a specific academic text
• explain the specific ideas contained in various academic
texts

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Activity:
• Identify the structure of each academic
text whether it is descriptive, expository,
argumentative, or narrative.
1. Once upon a time in a small village, there lived a
brave young girl named Lucy. She had a great
adventure when she decided to explore the
enchanted forest. With her loyal dog, Max, by her
side, she ventured into the dark woods. There, they
encountered mystical creatures, faced challenges,
and discovered a hidden treasure. At the end of the
journey, Lucy realized the importance of courage
and friendship.
2. The water cycle is a fundamental process in
our environment. It involves the continuous
movement of water from the Earth's surface to
the atmosphere and back again. The cycle
includes processes like evaporation,
condensation, and precipitation. Understanding
the water cycle is essential for comprehending
weather patterns and the distribution of fresh
water on our planet.
3. The majestic Grand Canyon is a geological
wonder located in Arizona, USA. Carved by the
Colorado River over millions of years, it is a
sight to behold. The canyon stretches over 270
miles in length, with varying depths and rock
formations. Visitors are treated to breathtaking
views of its colorful walls and the meandering
river at the bottom.
4. Climate change is a pressing issue that
demands our attention. The evidence for climate
change is overwhelming, with rising global
temperatures, melting polar ice caps, and an
increase in extreme weather events. It is our
responsibility to take action and reduce
greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate the
impacts of climate change on our planet and
future generations.
5. Photosynthesis is a crucial process in the
plant kingdom. It is the process by which green
plants and some other organisms convert
sunlight into energy for growth. During
photosynthesis, carbon dioxide is absorbed,
oxygen is released, and glucose is produced.
This process is essential for maintaining life on
Earth.
Descriptive Writing

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 Purpose and Structure of
Descriptive Writing
• aims to provide detailed descriptions of a
person, place, object, or event
• uses sensory language and vivid imagery to
create a clear picture in the reader's mind.
• Structure: Introduction, body paragraphs
(descriptions), conclusion
Example of Descriptive Writing
The ancient city of Rome is a treasure trove
of history and culture. Walking through the
streets of Rome is like taking a journey back in
time. The city is known for its iconic landmarks
such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and
the Pantheon. These architectural wonders stand
as a testament to the grandeur of the Roman
Empire.
 Purpose and Structure of
Expository Writing
• aims to explain and inform the reader about a specific
topic.
• presents facts, evidence, and examples to support the
main idea.
• Structure: Introduction (thesis statement); body
paragraphs (information with supporting evidence);
analysis, explanation, conclusion
Example of Expository Writing
The human digestive system is a complex
network of organs that work together to break
down and absorb nutrients from the food we eat.
This process involves several stages, including
ingestion, digestion, absorption, and elimination.
Understanding how the digestive system
functions is essential for maintaining good
health.
 Purpose and Structure of
Argumentative Writing
• presents a claim or argument and supports it with
evidence.
• aims to persuade the reader to agree with the writer's
viewpoint.
• Structure: Introduction, counterargument, main
arguments, conclusion
Example of Argumentative Writing
The use of plastic bags is detrimental to
the environment. These bags are non-
biodegradable and pose a significant threat to
marine life and ecosystems. By reducing our
reliance on plastic bags and adopting more
sustainable alternatives, we can contribute to
a cleaner and healthier planet.
 Purpose and Structure of
Narrative Writing
• tells a story or recounts a sequence of events.
• often includes characters, a plot, and a setting.
• Structure: Introduction, rising action, climax, falling
action, resolution
Example of Narrative Writing
John had always dreamed of becoming an
astronaut. One day, his dream became a
reality when he was selected to join a space
mission to Mars. The journey was filled with
excitement and challenges, and John's
experiences on the red planet were nothing
short of extraordinary. This is his story.
 References
Caulfield, J. (2023, July 23). The four main types of essay |
Quick guide with examples. Scribbr.
https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/essay-types/
Learn the Types of Writing: Expository, Descriptive,
Persuasive, and Narrative. (2019, May 22). Learn 4
Types of Writing | Grammarly.
https://www.grammarly.com/blog/types-of-writing/
Reflective Writing
Winicel May C. Ancheta
Assistant Professor III
[email protected]

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 Purpose and Structure of
Reflective Writing
• focuses on personal
experiences and
thoughts
 Purpose and Structure of
Reflective Writing
• Introspection
involves analyzing
your thoughts and
experiences.
• Description focuses
on providing details
and context.
 Purpose and Structure of
Reflective Writing
• Analysis involves
examining the
significance of your
experiences.
• Conclusion summarizes
your reflections and
provides closure.
Example of Reflective Writing
A Journey of Self-Discovery Through Travel
Traveling has always been a significant part of
my life. I've ventured to various corners of the
world, from bustling cities to remote villages, and
each journey has been a unique chapter in my
ongoing quest for self-discovery. One trip, in
particular, stands out in my mind - my backpacking
adventure through Southeast Asia.
Example of Reflective Writing
This adventure wasn't just about exploring exotic
landscapes or trying new cuisines. It was an
exploration of my own self and my place in the
world. As I navigated through vibrant markets in
Bangkok, trekked the lush jungles of Laos, and
lounged on pristine beaches in Vietnam, I
encountered not only the beauty of diverse cultures
but also the complexity of my own identity.
Example of Reflective Writing
I discovered that travel is more than just
collecting passport stamps; it's a mirror reflecting
our inner selves. It was amidst the bustling streets of
Hanoi that I recognized my ability to adapt and find
comfort in the midst of chaos. While volunteering at
a local orphanage in Cambodia, I discovered a
newfound sense of compassion and gratitude for the
life I'd been blessed with.
Example of Reflective Writing
However, the most profound moments of self-
reflection came during my solo hike to a remote
village in the hills of northern Thailand. In the
simplicity of village life, I found profound
contentment. I realized that my pursuit of material
possessions and a fast-paced lifestyle had obscured
the simpler joys of life - shared laughter, a warm
meal, and the beauty of nature.
Example of Reflective Writing
My journey through Southeast Asia wasn't just a
physical voyage but a deep inner exploration. It
taught me the value of humility, empathy, and the
importance of cherishing the present. I now
understand that self-discovery isn't a one-time event
but an ongoing process that is enriched by diverse
experiences and encounters.
Example of Reflective Writing
In conclusion, this travel experience has shaped
my perspective on life and the world around me. It
reminded me that the journey inward is just as
important as the journey outward. Traveling isn't
just about seeing the world; it's about seeing
ourselves in the world.
 References
A complete guide to writing a reflective essay | Oxbridge
Essays. (2021, November 11). Oxbridge Essays.
https://www.oxbridgeessays.com/blog/complete-guide-to
-writing-a-reflective-essay/
Reflective Writing Guide. (n.d.). UNSW Current Students.
https://www.student.unsw.edu.au/reflective-writing