top of page
Writer's pictureAdelina Jembere

Webinar recap: from common to clear language

Updated: Sep 24

This Clear Language Lab webinar took place on March 16, 2022 as part of the Plain Language Foundations series. Check out the notes below or access the webinar recording and slides.


Grounding thought

As a writer and former elected official, I believe in the power of words. We must use words to uplift and include. We can use our words to fight back against oppression and hate. But we must also channel our words into action.

Stacey Abrams, politician/activist/author/lawyer



Background information

We talked about two key types of vocabulary common in writing and related challenges


Tier II Words (words more common in reading vs. speaking)

We need to aggregate this data…

We need to assemble a committee…

The predominant opinion is that…


Tier III Words (jargon + sector specific language)

Science: surveillance, vaccine

Law: pro se, ad litem 

Workforce: labor market info, WIOA



Big takeaways

Words matter for many reasons:

  • Do we work alongside our audience to identify important content and terms?

  • Do we explain new terms or concepts adequately? Do we take care to avoid overwhelming people with unnecessary jargon or content?

  • Do we consider the impact of words beyond literal definitions? How do words make people feel?

  • Do we rely on euphemisms to avoid addressing complex social issues?  


More resources


Interested in learning more about professional development at Clear Language Lab? Check out other past webinars, find upcoming events on our training page, or contact Sarah Glazer, Sr. Program Manager, at sarah@litworks.org to learn more about our offerings.


© 2024 Literacy Works


Commentaires


bottom of page