Overview
This lecture explains "academic register," a scale of writing formality, and provides guidance on when to use different registers for academic and personal communication.
Understanding Academic Register
- Academic register refers to the level of formality in writing, ranging from very informal (1) to very formal (10).
- Formal writing is compared to wearing a suit and tie; informal writing is like wearing a Hawaiian shirt.
- Factors affecting register include pronoun choice, sentence structure, word choice, slang, jargon, and regional language.
Influences on Register
- Use of first or second person pronouns lowers formality; third person increases it.
- Colloquial language, slang, and regional expressions decrease formality.
- Sentence fragments and exclamation points are less formal than complete, declarative sentences with periods.
- Strong, descriptive adjectives raise the formality of writing.
Register Levels: Low, Mid, and High
- Low Register: Includes slang, jargon, grammar rule breaks, any pronouns, fragments (like texting friends); very personal and informal.
- Mid Register: Some colloquial language with a purpose, minor grammar breaks for effect, all pronouns allowed; personal but professional (e.g., most emails, expository or persuasive writing).
- High Register: No slang, strict grammar, third person only, complete sentences; impersonal, professional, and highly formal (e.g., research papers, formal analyses).
Choosing the Right Register
- Adjust register based on audience and relationship (e.g., more formal for new teachers, more relaxed for friends).
- For teachers you don't know: use a mid-high register (level 5-6).
- For teachers you know well: mid-lower register (level 3-4).
- For professional disputes: very formal, tone-neutral writing.
Professional Communication and Visual Register
- Professional emails require a subject line, greeting, correct capitalization and punctuation, and a proper sign-off.
- Font choice and color impact formality; use standard fonts like Times New Roman or Arial for academic writing.
- Profile photos and avatars affect perceived professionalism; use clear, friendly, and identifiable images for school accounts.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Register — The level of formality in writing or speech.
- Colloquial language — Everyday, informal language often unique to a region or group.
- Pronouns — Words like I, you, he, she, used to refer to people and affect formality.
- Diction — Word choice by the author, impacting the tone and formality.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Add the provided register categories page to your English One notebook.
- Review and update your school profile picture to look professional.
- Practice identifying the register in different written examples.