Passage comparison is an effective way to teach students how to recognize the differences between social and academic language
1. Give students 2 passages – one using informal language, and one using academic English
2. Ask students to compare the passages step-by-step in groups or with a partner
3. Have groups write a list of differences between the kinds of languages used, and discuss their findings
Repeat this exercise with numerous passages until students are able to recognize the differences between social and academic language