Double Entry Journal #8

1. What is the main challenge being addressed in the book?

The main challenge being addressed in this book is how to make academic reading and learning more enticing to the students. Many students find it difficult to continue their reading or learning because of uninvolvement or carelessness about a particular topic. 

2. What does the author mean by the phrase "ways with words"?

When the author discusses the phrase "ways with words" he specifically means that the way words are portrayed to students are more meaningful now than ever. Having a "way with your words" can make a listener more motivated than in the past. "These new ways are the ways with words connected to contemporary digital technologies and the myriad of popular culture and specialist practices to which they have given rise."

3. What is the core argument being made by the author of this book?

The core argument being made by the author of this book is how people learn new ways with words, in or out of school, only when they find the worlds to which these words apply compelling. 1`

4. Give an example of a specialized variety of a language or "way with words" you have learned outside of school?

An example of a specialized variety of a language or "ways with words" that I have learned outside of school would be the language of cheerleading. The language that cheerleaders use is most often hard for "outsiders" to understand. The terminology used is sometimes confusing and misleading.

5. According to the author, how do people learn a specialized variety of a language or "way with words" best?

People learn a specialized variety of a language or "ways with words" best when they can tie the words and structures of those languages to experiences they have had.

6. If people are to be successful in the 21st century, what must they become?

If people are to be successful in the 21st century, they must become "shape-shifting portfolio people". This means that they are "people who gain many diverse experiences that they can then use to transform and adapt themselves for fast-changing circumstances throughout their lives."

 

7. The author states that  learning academic language is NOT sufficient for success in modern society? Do you agree? Why or Why not?

I disagree that learning academic language is not sufficient for success in modern society. It is essential that students learn academic language. If students do not have a clear understanding of the content that they are learning, they will not be able to succeed within the course. 

Resources

Gee, J. P. (2004). Situated language and learning. New York, NY: Routledge Taylor & Francis Group.