C Analysis


What are the different uses of language in speaking and writing?


In terms of language, speaking and writing differ in two main ways: the method of delivery and level of formality.


method of delivery


Speech is immediate and usually unplanned. As such, we need to gain time for thinking and we use fillers such as um, er and I mean. Writing can be edited and rewritten many times. Therefore, it has no need for such words.


level of formality


Three historic languages have, in particular, given academic English the vocabulary which it has today: anglo-Saxon, French and latin. Words from the first are everyday words that are more likely to be found in speech (e.g., then). However, words from French and especially Latin are often a feature of writing (e.g., consequently).


What are the major differences between speaking and writing? how is the skill acquired?


As children, we acquire spoken language naturally, when we are exposed to the language of those around us, such as our parents. Writing, however, is a much more difficult skill to learn. The process is more complicated and takes a long time. This is why writing is often considered more important and prestigious. When learning writing in a second language, the process is even more difficult – so do not worry about your problems with English!


how is the language joined together?


Spoken language tends to use simpler forms of linking words (e.g., and, but), whereas written language typically uses more complex forms (e.g., however, therefore). Speaking: But writing is something … Writing: Writing, however, has …


how formal is the grammar?


Grammar has more flexibility in speech than in writing. In the majority of writing, you are expected to use full sentences which are ‘grammatically correct’ (i.e., every sentence must have a subject and a verb). In speech, this is not always necessary.


Step 1


8


Speaking: Now. Writing: This is true even in the 21st century!


Note: Text English Text English – the abbreviated


type of language which is often found in text messages and e-mails (and on Facebook and Twitter) – is unacceptable in academic writing. Although it is technically ‘writing’, many of its features are closer to speaking.


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18