Academic language represents the complex components of the English
    language that are required for success in academic discourse.  In vocabulary
    and structure, it is quite different  from the social English that we use in
    normal conversations.  Mainly composed of Latinate and Greek word
    construction, academic language is the primary hindrance to the
    comprehension of texts and lectures.  Therefore, poor academic language
    skills are the root of low academic performance.

    To combat poor academic language skills, students will require instruction in
    the following key areas of academic language development:

  • Vocabulary-Knowledge of the forms and meanings of words

  • Grammar- knowledge of the grammatical rules that govern usage

  • Sentence Structure-using words to convey simple and complex
    thoughts

  • Latinate Word Construction-prefixes, assimilated prefixes, roots,
    connectives, suffixes

  • Greek Word Construction-combining forms (Greek roots) and the
    connective "o"

  • Sociolinguistics-the ability to vary language appropriately

  • Critical Thinking Skills-the ability to analyze, compare and contrast,
    etc.

  • Language Awareness-knowledge of academic writing structure to aid
    reading comprehension or the ability to revise and self-edit writing

  • Study Skills-how to review, test preparation, etc.

  • Learning Styles-what methods, approaches, and teaching strategies
    allow them to maximize their educational experience

      
Academic Language
Walter E. Dunson, Jr., Ph.D.
Academic Language Therapist