If you are a student, you may have heard the term “academic vocabulary” before. But what does it mean and why is it important for your learning and success? I will explain what academic vocabulary is, how it differs from everyday vocabulary, and how you can improve your academic vocabulary skills.
What is Academic Vocabulary?
Academic vocabulary is the set of words and phrases that are commonly used in academic contexts, such as textbooks, lectures, essays, reports, presentations, etc. Academic vocabulary covers various topics and disciplines, such as science, history, literature, math, etc.
Academic vocabulary also includes words and phrases that are used to express abstract or complex ideas, such as analyze, compare, contrast, evaluate, etc.
Academic vocabulary is different from everyday vocabulary, which is the set of words and phrases that are commonly used in informal or casual contexts, such as conversations, emails, texts, social media, etc.
Everyday vocabulary covers topics and situations that are familiar or personal to us, such as hobbies, family, friends, weather, etc.
Everyday vocabulary also includes words and phrases that are used to express emotions or opinions, such as like, dislike, happy, sad, etc.
Why is Academic Vocabulary Important?
Academic vocabulary is important for students because it helps them to:
- Understand the content and concepts of their courses
- Communicate their ideas and arguments effectively
- Demonstrate their knowledge and skills in their assignments
- Achieve higher grades and academic success
Academic vocabulary is also important for students because it prepares them for their future education and career. By having a strong academic vocabulary, students can:
- Reach a broader variety of sources and information
- Participate in academic discussions and debates
- Write and publish academic papers and articles
- Apply for scholarships or grants
- Pursue higher education or professional development
How can you Improve your Academic Vocabulary Skills?
Improving your academic vocabulary skills is not an easy or quick task. It requires time, effort, and practice. However, there are some strategies that you can use to enhance your academic vocabulary skills, such as:
- Reading academic texts and materials regularly
- Using a dictionary or a glossary to look up unfamiliar words or phrases
- Keeping a vocabulary notebook or a flashcard app to record and review new words or phrases
- Using online tools or resources to learn and practice academic vocabulary
- Asking your teachers or tutors for feedback or guidance on your academic vocabulary
To Sum Up
Academic vocabulary is the set of words and phrases that are commonly used in academic contexts, such as textbooks, lectures, essays, etc. Academic vocabulary is different from everyday vocabulary, which is the set of words and phrases that are commonly used in informal or casual contexts, such as conversations, emails, texts, etc.
Academic vocabulary is important for students because it helps them to understand, communicate, and demonstrate their learning and skills. Academic vocabulary also prepares them for their future education and career.
Improving academic vocabulary skills requires time, effort, and practice, but there are some strategies that students can use to enhance their academic vocabulary skills, such as reading, using a dictionary, keeping a vocabulary notebook, using online tools, and asking for feedback. By having a strong academic vocabulary, students can improve their comprehension, communication, and confidence as learners.
Published by : ISCOPE Publications