Concept of Grammar

 

Grammar refers to the set of rules that govern the structure of language, including syntax (sentence structure), morphology (word formation), phonology (sound systems), and semantics (meaning). It helps users construct meaningful sentences and communicate effectively.

In simple terms, the dos and don'ts of language are called grammar. But mind you, it is much more than that. 

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2. Types of Grammar

Type	Definition	Examples
Prescriptive Grammar	Provides rules for correct language usage and emphasizes traditional norms.	"He doesn’t" is correct; "He don’t" is incorrect.
Descriptive Grammar	Describes how language is actually used by speakers without judging correctness.	"I ain't going" is acceptable in colloquial usage but not in formal contexts.
Functional Grammar	Focuses on the use of grammar in communication and emphasizes meaning and context.	Using modals for politeness: "Could you please pass the salt?" instead of "Pass the salt."
Transformational-Generative Grammar	Introduced by Noam Chomsky, it explains the underlying structure of sentences and how they transform.	Deep structure: "The boy is eating an apple." Surface structure: "An apple is being eaten by the boy."

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3. Should We Teach Grammar?

Arguments For Teaching Grammar	Arguments Against Teaching Grammar
1. Clarity in Communication: Helps students form clear, accurate sentences.	1. Focus on Usage: Overemphasizing rules may hinder natural language acquisition.
2. Foundation for Writing and Speaking: Essential for academic writing and formal communication.	2. Real-World Contexts: Native speakers often learn grammar through immersion, not formal rules.
3. Enhances Vocabulary Understanding: Grammar aids in understanding word usage in sentences.	3. Reduces Motivation: Rigid rules can make learning English seem daunting.
4. Supports Advanced Language Skills: Necessary for critical analysis and interpretation.	4. Context-Driven Learning: Practical usage can replace explicit grammar instruction.

Summary in Tabular Form:

Aspect	For Grammar Instruction	Against Grammar Instruction
Focus	Rules and structures	Communication and meaning
Approach	Direct, structured	Indirect, natural
Outcome	Formal accuracy	Functional fluency

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4. Types of Ways to Teach Grammar

Method	Explanation	Example/Activity
Explicit Instruction	Teaching grammar rules directly with examples and practice.	Teach the rule for subject-verb agreement ("He plays" vs. "They play"). Practice with fill-in-the-blank sentences.
Inductive and Deductive Methods	Inductive: Students infer rules from examples. Deductive: Rules are given first, followed by examples.	Inductive: Present sentences like "She runs fast," "He works hard," and ask students to identify the pattern.
Task-Based Learning (TBL)	Students complete meaningful tasks that require specific grammar.	Role-play: Planning a trip using future tense ("We will go to the beach.")
Contextual Grammar Teaching	Teach grammar within the context of reading, listening, or writing.	Teach past tense by analyzing a story like "Yesterday, the boy played in the park."
Integrative Grammar Teaching	Combine grammar with other language skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking).	Students write a short essay and underline all instances of passive voice.

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Examples of Activities for Teaching Grammar

1. Sentence Sorting: Provide mixed sentences and ask students to sort them into categories like present tense, past tense, etc.
2. Error Correction: Give sentences with grammatical errors for students to correct.
3. Grammar Bingo: Create bingo cards with grammar points (e.g., past tense verbs, prepositions) and play in class.
4. Story Reconstruction: Provide a jumbled story with missing words. Students arrange and complete it using correct grammar.
5. Dialogue Practice: Role-play scenarios like shopping or dining out, focusing on specific structures like questions or modal verbs.

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This detailed content clarifies grammar and practical ways to integrate it into teaching. Let me know if you'd like further examples or activities!