Thinking Activity: Exploring the Words of the Year 2024 | Brain Rot and Manifest
Greetings!
As part of our efforts to engage critically with contemporary language trends and their cultural implications, I am excited to introduce a Thinking Activity based on the Words of the Year 2024, as selected by two prestigious dictionaries: Oxford and Cambridge. This activity will sharpen your analytical skills and deepen your understanding of how language reflects societal shifts.
The Words of the Year
Oxford Word of the Year: "Brain Rot"
"Brain rot" has been chosen to reflect growing concerns about the effects of excessive consumption of low-quality online content. While the term is often used humorously, it also points to serious discussions about mental health in the digital age.
Cambridge Word of the Year: "Manifest"
"Manifest" in this context refers to the act of imagining achieving something you want, in the belief that doing so will make it more likely to happen. This usage stems from a 100-year-old spiritual philosophy movement and has gained popularity as individuals seek to articulate intentions and personal goals even though it is 'unproven' and a part of 'pseudoscience.' It highlights a broader cultural trend of self-help cultural expression in the pursuit of purposeful living, which somehow turns out to be a mere sham, not leading to strategic planning to achieve goals.
Both words are thought-provoking and offer unique perspectives on modern life.
Task Guidelines
Step 1: Read and Research
Visit the official announcements on the Oxford and Cambridge websites to gain a detailed understanding of these words:
Step 2: Analyze and Reflect
Consider the following questions while researching:
What are the social, cultural, or psychological contexts behind the selection of these words?
How do these words resonate with your personal experiences or observations of contemporary society?
In what ways do these words influence or reflect the way we think, communicate, and interact?
Step 3: Write a Blog Post
Compose a blog of 500-700 words.
Title your blog creatively to reflect your perspective on these words.
Your blog should include:
A brief introduction to the Words of the Year.
An analysis of the cultural and societal significance of "Brain Rot" and "Manifest."
Your personal reflections or examples that connect these words to real-life scenarios.
A conclusion summarizing your thoughts on the impact of language on society.
Step 4: Publish and Share
Publish your blog on your personal blog site.
Share the link to your blog in our Google classroom discussion thread.
Assessment Criteria
Your submission will be evaluated based on:
Depth of Analysis: How well you explore the significance of the words.
Clarity and Coherence: How clearly and logically your ideas are presented.
Creativity: Originality in framing your arguments and examples.
Engagement: Your ability to make the blog interesting and relatable.
Deadline
Submit your blog link by the end of 14 Dec 2024.
Why This Activity?
Language is not just a tool for communication but also a mirror to society. By delving into these Words of the Year, you will explore how words encapsulate collective experiences, concerns, and aspirations. This activity aims to foster critical thinking and encourage you to see the interplay between language and culture.
I look forward to reading your insightful blogs and engaging in vibrant discussions about the words that shape our world. Let’s uncover the power of words together!
