derived score n
(in statistics) any type of score other than a raw score. A derived score is
calculated by converting a raw score or scores into units of another scale.
For example, the number of correct responses in a text (the raw score) may
be converted into grades from A to F (a derived score).
see also standard score
DES n
an abbreviation for Diploma in English Studies (UCLES)
description n
see essay
descriptive adequacy n
see generative theory
descriptive function n
see functions of language^1
descriptive grammar n
a grammar which describes how a language is actually spoken and /or
written, and does not state or prescribe how it ought to be spoken or
written.
If a descriptive grammar of a non-prestige variety of English were written,
it might show, for example, that speakers of this variety sometimes
said:
I seen ’im.instead of I saw him.
’im ’n’ me done it. instead of He and I did it.
see also prescriptive grammar
descriptive research n
an investigation that attempts to describe accurately and factually a
phenomenon, subject or area. Surveys and case studies are examples of
descriptive research. The study of language teaching methodology has
sometimes been criticized because of the lack of descriptive research
describing how teachers actually use methods in the classroom.
see also basic research, applied research, action research, classroom-
centred research
descriptive statistics n
statistical procedures that are used to describe, organize and summarize the
important general characteristics of a set of data. A descriptive statistic is
derived score