FORMAL, INFORMAL AND PLAGIARISM

Skim the two paragraphs and answer the questions below

1. Do the two paragraphs discuss the same topic?

2. What is that topic?

3. What is the controlling idea (main idea) about the topic?

4. How are the two paragraphs different?

Yes they do.

PlagiarismIt (plagiarism) leads to a variety of problemsParagraph A is more formal/academic

WHAT ARE SOME SPECIFIC DIFFERENCES

IN THE LANGUAGE USED, IN BOTH PARAGRAPHS?

• In formal writing we use longer and more complex sentences

• In formal writing we use specific, technical vocabulary

“Plagiarism takes place in universities throughout the world and leads to a variety of problems.”

“For instance, if plagiarism were to be discovered in a student’s assignment on one occasion…”

• In informal writing we use shorter, simpler sentences.

• In informal writing we use general, less technical vocabulary

“Plagiarism takes place everywhere and makes lots of problems.”

“For instance, if the teacher sees plagiarism once…”

• In formal writing we avoid using contractions

• In formal writing we avoid using phrasal verbs (if possible)

“Firstly, it is illegal...”

“…which would have taken a lot of time and effort to generate.”

• In informal writing we often use contractions

• In informal writing, we often use phrasal verbs.

“Firstly, it’s illegal...”

“…which would have taken ages to think of.”

• In formal writing we avoid using slang or colloquial phrases.

“…which would have taken a lot of time and effort…”

“…make the student feel like he or she is being treated unfairly.”

• In informal writing we sometimes use slang and colloquial phrases.

“…would have taken ages…”

“…student would think it’s so unfair.”