Academic Discourse and Genre

Because I do not know the specific genres used in psychology, I have invented some new genres. They are based on the differences within different journal articles published in the Annual Review of Psychology.

1. How many different kinds of genres seem to be published in this particular issue of the journal you selected?

There appear to be about three. These are mostly differentiated by their form. The technique and purpose of each are pretty similar.

2. If you don't know the 'official' names for these different genres, come up with names for the yourself. Identify at least three different genres within the journal issue and describe the significant formal differences between the three genres. If you made up your own name, explain why you chose the name you invented.

Headings and Sub Sects

This begins with a description of the topic at hand. It goes on to delineate different headings under which there are numerous sub headings. Finally, the conclusion states what overall point is bing made.

Overview and Implications

This begins with an overview of what is going to be explained. Questions and headings further the exploration of the topic until the significance is explained under a heading titled, “Theoretical Implications and Conclusions”.

Introduction and Innovations

This begins with an introduction to the topic discussed. It alternates between headings without subheadings and headings with subheadings. This proposes a new practice rather than analyzing something preexisting or discussing something commonly accepted like the other two. It concludes by proposing something instead of summing up what has been presented.

3. Now come up with your own definition for each genre (using the name you coined, if you weren't sure what the 'official' name is for the genre). Be sure to explain what you perceive to be the purpose of each genre and how each genre might meet the needs and expectations of a target audience.

Heading and Sub Sects: utilizes a description of an idea as a topic. It proceeds to elaborate on that description using headings and subheadings and ends in a conclusion. This is not used for a proposal but rather for a discussion.

Overview and Implications: implements an overview of a topic, a statement of points, and then an argument about what this means for psychology. This is used to make an argument about the significance of an iea.

Introduction and Innovations: introduces an issue, explains the reasoning behind a new method, and finally proposes changes to be made to a current system or an entirely new system to replace an old system. This is used to propose a new theory rather than discuss something preexisting.