A Place for Grammar

I think defining the different things we mean when we talk about "grammar" is very useful. Thinking through this article has caused me to re-think a little bit about my ideas about the usefulness of grammar instruction, of any kind, in the classroom. However, I still believe that grammar instruction is a necessary component of an English teacher's curriculum.

I think that an understanding of the English language, it's rules, usage, etc. are all important. However, I do think that some parts should be focused on more than others. For example, Hartwell's definition of Grammar 1 would not need to be taught to native speakers of English (it may be useful in a class for ESL students, however) because they will already instinctively know the rules. A brief instruction on what those instinctive rules are may be enlightening to an upper-level English class in a similar way to our study of the rules of different English dialects.

I think that a study of Grammar 2, the rules of language patterns, would also be beneficial more as a way for students to know how to communicate what they do linguistically and in writing.

In regards to our discussion about how to approach "proper" English in light of professional expectations, even though we know that one dialect is not better than another, teaching linguistic etiquette, Grammar 3, would be a way to teach students that there is a difference between "correct" and "appropriate" usage.

In addition, learning both Grammar 4 and Grammar 5 (school grammar and stylistic writing grammar, respectively) will only better prepare students for successful careers in any field. Someone once told me, in regards to writing, "You need to know the rules before you are allowed to break them." I think this is a good philosophy. Students should know how or why they can make stylistic choices in their written work. However, a knowledge of when it is appropriate to make those choices would also be very beneficial.

As I mentioned in class, my opinion on the role of grammar in English class comes largely from my own personal experience. I sincerely believe that the extent to which my high school English teacher hammered rules of grammar and usage into our heads set not only me, but many others up for tremendous success. The basic knowledge I carry with me allows me to excel in numerous ways. Classmates who, at the time, hated English class have also expressed appreciation for the knowledge they have. I think grammar does belong in the classroom. I think that different definitions of grammar have varying roles and levels of importance. Nevertheless, I fully intend to make grammar instruction an important part of my classroom.