Academic Writing Vocabulary Flashcards

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Analyse

Back

Break an issue into its constituent parts. Look in depth at each part using supporting arguments and evidence for and against as well as how these interrelate to one another.

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Critically analyse

Back

Break an issue into its constituent parts. Look in depth at each part using supporting arguments and evidence for and against as well as how these interrelate to one another. Identify what is good and bad about the information and why; probe, question, identify inaccuracies or shortcomings in the information; estimate the value of the material.

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Consider

Back

Say what you think and have observed about something. Back up your comments using appropriate evidence from external sources, or your own experience. Include any views which are contrary to your own and how they relate to what you originally thought.

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Demonstrate

Back

Show how, with examples to illustrate.

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Describe

Back

Provide details of something, for example class, students, activity, process.

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Discuss

Back

Essentially this is a written debate where you are using your skill at reasoning, backed up by carefully selected evidence to make a case for and against an argument, or point out the advantages and disadvantages of a given context. Remember to arrive at a conclusion.

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Evaluate

Back

Consider both sides of an argument to make an informed judgement. Conclude based on evidence provided.

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Critically evaluate

Back

Consider both sides of an argument to make a judgement. Provide evidence taken from a wide range of sources which both agree with and contradict the argument. Identify what is good and bad about the information and why; probe, question, identify inaccuracies or shortcomings in the information; estimate the value of the material. Conclude, basing your decision on what you judge to be the most important factors and justify how you have made your choice.

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Examine

Back

Look in close detail and establish the key facts and important issues surrounding a topic. This should be a critical evaluation and you should try and offer reasons as to why the facts and issues you have identified are the most important, as well as explain the different ways they could be construed.

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Explore

Back

Adopt a questioning approach and consider a variety of different viewpoints. Reconcile opposing views by presenting a final line of argument.