Chapter 2 Discussion Questions

Things to ponder!

These are the talking points for our class discussion this evening. Don't worry about responding to them now; we'll be doing that as our in class assignment today.

1. Define academic writing. What are its characteristics? How does it differ from writing you may have done in the past?

2. What are some different forms of writing? What forms of writing will you be using in this class (you may need to look at the syllabus)? How might the writing in this class be similar/different from your other classes?

3. What do you think "language of the discipline" means? Give examples from your different majors/careers.

4. What is "standard American English"? In an academic setting, do you think it's important to use standard American English? Why or why not?

5. What is a "scholarly source"? Give a few examples. Where might you find scholarly sources?

6. What is "collaborative learning"? Do you think it's important? Why or why not?

7. How would you define "good writing skills"? Do you think it's important to have them? Why or why not?