Mediation Structure and Key Principles

The document outlines the fundamental structure and key principles for effective mediation in language learning, focusing on various text types.

Introduction to Mediation

Mediation involves conveying information from one language to another, adapting content for different audiences and purposes. The guide emphasizes the importance of:

• Stating the reason for writing
• Identifying the topic and source material
• Adapting the introduction based on the text type (e.g., email, letter, article, blog entry)

Highlight: The introduction should be tailored to the specific text type you're asked to write.

Main Body Guidelines

The main body of a mediation text should:

• Avoid direct translation
• Use your own words
• Structure the content logically
• Adapt language style (informal, formal, or neutral) to the text type
• Maintain the original text's tense

Example: When mediating a formal article, use formal language and maintain a logical structure that may follow the chronology of the original text.

Conclusion and Cautions

The conclusion varies depending on the text type. Key cautions include:

• Avoiding word-for-word translation
• Focusing on the most important information
• Staying on topic
• Explaining culture-specific terms when necessary
• Being aware of false friends in translation

Vocabulary: False friends are words in two languages that look or sound similar but have different meanings, e.g., "rent" in English is not equivalent to "die Rente" (pension) in German.

Additional Mediation Tips and Examples

This section provides supplementary advice and examples to enhance mediation skills across various formats.

General Mediation Advice

• Always adapt your language and style to the target audience and text type
• Focus on conveying the most important information accurately
• Use cultural explanations when necessary to bridge understanding

Example: When mentioning "Bundesagentur für Arbeit" in an English mediation, you might explain it as "the Federal Employment Agency of Germany."

Format-Specific Tips

For Emails and Letters:

• Consider adding a personal touch or advice at the end, e.g., "Take time choosing what to do in the future, it's a big step!"

For Speeches:

• Practice your delivery to ensure a natural flow and appropriate pacing

For Blog Entries:

• Use a conversational tone to engage readers and encourage interaction

For Articles:

• Ensure your headline is attention-grabbing and relevant to the content

Highlight: The key to successful mediation is maintaining the essence of the original message while adapting it appropriately for the new audience and format.