Social Language is…
 The language used amongst friends
 The language of text messages
 The language of daily conversations
 The language of social success
Academic Language is…
 The language used in the classroom
 The language of text and assessments
 The language of academic success
 The language of power
How to spot Social Language:
 Simple sentences using simple words
 Repeated words
 Sentences begin with “and” or “but”
 Use of slang
How to find Academic Language:
 Employs a variety of sophisticated words
 Sentences start with transition words, such as
“however” or “moreover”
 Proper grammar
Example:
Went to the store and bought a few things like bread,
milk and peanut butter. Didn’t have enough. Wanna let
me borrow a dollar?
Example:
The character proceeded to the grocery store where
she purchased a few necessary items. However, she
did not have enough money.
Natural face-toface
conversations
Letters, texts
and e-mails
Storytelling
Writing or
explaining
something you
know
Quiz and test
answers using
vocabulary
Formal essay
You must be able to write and speak both “languages” to be a
great communicator.