Stop Saying “Use Academic Language”
Replace “use academic language” with a named language choice needed for the task: precise vocabulary, an evidence link or a qualification.
Worked model: Stop Saying “Use Academic Language”
View the illustrated activity card
- 1Replace “use academic language” with a named language choice needed for the task: precise vocabulary, an evidence link or a qualification
- 2Identify the word or phrase that makes the subject version more precise
- 3Rewrite one idea for a partner and for a formal subject response
- 4Check that the meaning survives the change in register
Everyday: “The water slowly disappeared.” Subject wording: “The liquid evaporated from its surface.” The second names a process; it should not introduce a claim that the water ceased to exist.
Teach the move
Prepare · 5 minutes
Prepare everyday and subject-specific versions of the same idea.
- 1
Replace “use academic language” with a named language choice needed for the task: precise vocabulary, an evidence link or a qualification.
- 2
Identify the word or phrase that makes the subject version more precise.
- 3
Rewrite one idea for a partner and for a formal subject response.
- 4
Check that the meaning survives the change in register.
EAL upgrade
Remove the paired model and ask learners to choose wording for a named audience.
Keep the subject challenge. Offer one model, visual or language prompt where needed, then check a fresh independent response.
Try it tomorrow
Prepare everyday and subject-specific versions of the same idea.
Replace “use academic language” with a named language choice needed for the task: precise vocabulary, an evidence link or a qualification. Identify the word or phrase that makes the subject version more precise.
Ask learners to explain what the technical version adds and what stays the same.
Remove the paired model and ask learners to choose wording for a named audience.
What to look for
Ask learners to explain what the technical version adds and what stays the same.
Teacher language
Adapt these prompts to the task and your learners.
Our purpose is: Replace “use academic language” with a named language choice needed for the task: precise vocabulary, an evidence link or a qualification.
Show the relationship and explain the choice you made.
Try the new case on your own. Show the detail or reasoning that supports your answer.
Which support do you still need, and which part can you now do independently?
Across subjects
Maths: move from “the line gets steeper” to a precise statement about gradient. Humanities: move from everyday judgement to an evidence-based interpretation.
Adjust language support
Use a small word bank, visuals and partner rehearsal when needed. Extend with precise explanations and qualifications. Judge the support from the response to this task.