TEFL Grammar
Posted by Erin MacKenzie - 10:39 on 14 December 2011
Most native English speakers don’t have an extensive knowledge of the ins-and-outs of the way they use language because it’s something that comes naturally to them. We all use subordinate clauses and contracted word forms, but do we know how to describe them and can we identify when we are using them?
What is grammar?
Grammar is the set of rules that govern the structure and system of a language, which consists of syntax and morphology, and is also extended to phonetics, phonology and semantics – this, understandably, sounds a little intimidating! Toddlers can display the ability to grasp complex grammar and adults use it without giving it any thought, but when it comes to being able to describe the way we use language most of us might struggle to explain anything more complicated than verbs, nouns and adjectives. For English language learners, however, learning grammar is very important and so the EFL teacher needs to do some brushing up!
How should we teach grammar in TEFL?
There are two ways of teaching grammar: prescriptive and descriptive. Prescriptive English causes a lot of arguments amongst grammarians because it teaches a correct and incorrect way of using grammar – most English Language academics do not teach in this way currently and contest the idea of grammar having fixed rules. Language changes over time and rules are frequently broken in everyday speech, and so descriptive English describes the way people speak, rather than telling them how to as prescriptive does. However, EFL students will benefit from prescriptive grammar in their earlier stages as it’s important for them to be able to establish certain rules as a foundation. Having an understanding of grammar as being flexible rather than rigid benefits fluency in more advanced English speakers.
TEFL and grammar
Grammar is something that can sound very overwhelming for the prospective EFL teacher, but TEFL Scotland is here to help with our 30-hour Grammar Course. The course will cover everything you’re likely to come across as a first-time teacher and there’s plenty of opportunity to practice and get help if you find yourself stuck. A good knowledge of grammar is hugely helpful to any EFL teacher and that’s why the course is only £30 if you book it alongside any of our weekend, weekday or online courses.
Find out more: TEFL Grammar Course
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