Unit 1 Issues in Defining and Teaching Grammar

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Unit 1Issues in Defining and Teaching Grammar

• SPSE 6520
• D.V. Craig
• Summer 2005

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What is grammar?

• The study of what forms or structures are
  possible in language.
• A description of rules that govern how sentences
  are formed.

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What is grammar?

• Conventionally, grammar is seen as the study of
• Syntax and morphology of sentences
• The way words are chained together in a
  particular order to make sentences

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Grammar and Meaning

• Grammar communicates meaning
• Meaning is conveyed at
• The lexical (word) level
• Grammar makes the speakers or writers meaning
  clear

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Two Kinds of Meaning Conveyed by Grammar
Representational Role of Language - reflects the
way we perceive the world. (Example The sun
set.)

• Meaning reflects the purpose of language
• Purposes include
• Representational Functions
• Interpersonal Functions

Interpersonal Role of Language - reflected in the
way we use grammar to ease tasks. (Examples
Tickets! Or May I see your tickets?
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Spoken and Written Grammar

• Spoken Grammar
• Appropriate to casual conversation and dialog
• Written Grammar
• More complex in structure and construction

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Grammar Rules

• Prescriptive Rules
• A principle or order which guides behavior
• Descriptive Rules
• The usual way that something happens
• Pedagogical Rules
• Rules that make sense to learners while at the
  same time providing them with means and
  confidence to acquire the language

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Why teach grammar?
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Communication Argument

• Communicative Approach
• Linguistic competence seen as one component of
  communicative competence
• Knowing how to use grammar and vocabulary for
  communication

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Acquisition and Natural Order

• Acquisition is a natural process that occurs
  through contact with native speakers
• Natural Order
• A specific order that naturally takes place with
  language learning
• LAD - Language Acquisition Device that provides
  universal grammar
• Based on Krashen Chomsky

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Designer Methods