Vocabulary
When a writer reviews their work and fixes errors, they _____ the text.
edit
A linguist is someone who studies _____.
language
What problem do some people think texting causes for language?
They think texting harms literacy and writing skills.
In McWhorter’s clock analogy, what does writing appearing at 11:07 p.m. show?
That writing came very late compared to spoken language.
What does LOL stand for in texting?
(Bonus: Is it really used to mean this literally?)
laugh(ing) out loud
What does conscious mean?
aware and thinking carefully about what you are doing
Advice or comments that help someone improve are called _____.
feedback
What form of language came first: speaking or writing?
Speaking came first.
Why does McWhorter say not everyone becomes a writer?
Because writing is a learned skill, not something everyone is taught.
In texting, what does TBH mean, especially before sharing an opinion?
to be honest
What does decline suggest about a change over time?
it becomes weaker, worse, or less common
The teacher asked the student to expand on their answer. What does this mean?
add more detail or explanation
How is writing different from speaking when it comes to planning ideas?
Writing is a conscious process that allows planning and editing.
What problem do writers have that speakers do not when sharing ideas?
Writers cannot see how people react right away.
What does “MID” mean when describing something, for example a movie or song?
Average or unimpressive
Explain the difference between formal language and spontaneous language.
Formal language is planned and rule-based, while spontaneous language is natural and unplanned.
What does logically mean?
in a way that makes sense or follows clear reasoning
Why does McWhorter say texting is closer to speaking than to writing?
Because it is fast, informal, and allows immediate feedback.
Why does McWhorter believe texting should not be judged by traditional writing rules?
Because texting functions more like speech than formal writing.
What does “NGL” stand for, and why do people use it?
Not gonna lie — used to introduce an honest or blunt opinion
Which word best fits the sentence?
A linguist may study different _____(s) of communication, such as speech and writing.
mode
Which word best fits the sentence?
The lack of punctuation in casual messages does not indicate carelessness but reflects a less __________ communicative style.
formal
Why does McWhorter believe texting is not a decline, but an expansion of language?
Because it creates a new way to communicate, similar to how writing once expanded language.
What does McWhorter say people should do before judging texting?
Understand what language really is.
What does “COOKED” mean when describing a person or situation?
Completely done for / exhausted / beyond saving