Grammar

'Grammar is a way of describing 

how a particular language works

 to make meaning within their culture'

(Campbell and Green, 2006)

Grammar, it is enough to make even the best of us cringe. However this need not be so!
As a learner, I was apprehensive about studying grammar. My understanding of grammar was a jumbled mess of technical terms and uses of words and symbols and styles. I did not want my students to feel the same way about grammar.

Grammar is essential for students to have a strong hold on. It provides tools for exploring how language works and extends learner's resources for creating strong meaning. 

Teaching grammar as a stand alone topic is fairly pointless (Campbell and Green, 2006). Strings of technical words, symbols and rules have little meaning to students when taught in isolation. For students to develop a strong understanding of grammar, it's conventions should be taught in context, linked to texts students are hearing, reading, writing and viewing. 

'Grammar time', thanks to questgarden.com

Grammar is best taught at a whole text level first; examining the whole piece of text, looking at the layout, and immediate eye catching items, such as dot points, paragraphs, headings and sub headings. For example dot points may indicate a persuasive text type.

Then look at the paragraph level of the text. Again, investigate the structure of the paragraph, investigate interesting words and phrases used through out the paragraph. Then move onto sentence level anaysis. This is where you can examine specific technicalities of language and grammar such as word choice, capitals and  grammatical symbols such as commas, apostrophes and full stops.
Teaching grammar in this way will help children to see that grammar is simply a way for a particular culture to enhance meaning.
When grammar is examined in this fashion, using a text that is relevent and accesible for students, students will be more likely to grasp key grammatical concepts, reducing the 'cringe factor'.

Grammar is also used to help students understand particular text types and their usage.  First it is essential to build knowledge of the particular topic area, persuasive writing, for example. Once students understand the topic area, teaching can move to learning specifics about the text type. When students have a strong understanding of the particulars and specifics, they can move onto guided practice using the text type. This may take the form of creating a persuasive piece of writing as a whole class. After guided practice, students will then independently work on the text type. Once students have a grasp on the text type, they can reflect in it's usage and particulars.
Teaching in this way makes grammar 'real' for students, it shows a real life purpose in their learning of grammar. When grammar is taught in context, it is purposeful and meaningful.

When teaching grammar it is important to always use correct grammatical terms and symbols. Shared and precise language allows for appropriate discussion surrounding grammar.

Teaching grammar is difficult, so finding websites that followed my belief of how grammar should be taught, was difficult too. Listed below are some websites which might be helpful.
ABC Teach- Grammar
These are printable worksheets and activities for a range of abilities and age groups. Be careful when using worksheets; be sure that students understand the meaning behind what they are doing, and that the worksheet or activity is meaningful. If used incorrectly, they risk becomming 'busy sheets' with little or no meaning.
Kim's Korner- Ideas and Activities for Teaching Grammar
Another great website with lots of ideas and activities for teaching grammar. The website is still partially under construction (hopefully it will be finished soon!), but the activities listed are great. I particularly like that there are a selection of posters that can be printed out. These would be great for a starting point about an aspect of grammar, like nouns.
Busy Teacher- Teaching Grammar to ESL Students
A great website, using celebrities to teach grammar to ESL students! Using celebrities to teach grammar skills makes it real life and relevant to students.


And, once again, a supportive and encouraging environment is one where students feel safe to make risks, allowing them to further their learning!