Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Discourse

Today’s reading assignment really stressed the importance of the type of language used in certain writing, also know as jargon. Boyd defines, “Jargon is the terminology used by those in a particular profession or group to facilitate clear and precise communication, but this rhetorical tool is not limited just to the professional world.” We use a different lingo for nearly everything we do. There is fashion jargon, sports jargon, even different slang you use with certain friends. This article emphasized the importance of using the correct vocabulary for the type of writing you are doing. The article showed examples of difficulties you can encounter when you are trying to write with the wrong language. Personally, I thought the activities the author had her class do to point out these differences was very interesting. It was something that I have never previously thought about.

Gee’s article is also emphasizing the importance of language as well, most importantly used in Discourse. Discourse is the action of debating or talking about a particular subject. Gee is addressing the idea that there are different appropriate ways to talk in particular situations. It builds off of Boyd’s point of jargon, but stresses the importance or power of the situation. Gee gives a great example in the situation of being out with a friend. You would not use proper grammar but instead slang. That is important to remember in professional settings and vice-versa. I think Dicourses can be difficult to join if you don’t have the proper language or background in the particular area. I also think that Discourse is the opportunity to learn so the language has the potential to be obtained.

1 comment:

  1. I think you're getting the ideas of the articles. Good work. I would like to see a little more analysis. If you can't think of anything else to say, remember to pick passages from each reading and explain what it means and why you thought it was important.

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