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English Grammar: The Basics offers a clear, non-jargonistic introduction to English grammar and its place in society. Rather than taking a prescriptive approach, this book helps the reader become aware of the social implications of choices they make to use standard or non-standard (regional/dialect) forms.
Readers will consider:
- what grammar is and how it fits into the structure of language;
- how grammar functions in the school curriculum, the press, broadcasting and social media, as well as how these outlets reflect and reinforce our attitudes towards grammar;
- differences between speech and writing, as well as between formality and informality;
- major different approaches to theorising and describing grammar from important grammarians, including Noam Chomsky and Michael Halliday.
Featuring a glossary of key terms and practical tips and insights from the author's 50+ years of language teaching experience around the world, this book is for anyone who has ever found themselves questioning the 'rules' of the English language.
List of contents
1 Everyone knows what grammar is ... don't they?
2 From words to sentences
3 The Grammar Toolbox
4 The Grammar Toolbox Continued
5 Theories and thinkers
6 Word of mouth: Grammar in action
7 Grammar policy, grammar politics and grammar police
8 Grammar in the public eye
Glossary of grammar terms
References
Index
About the author
Michael McCarthy is a national bestselling author, whose nonfiction books include The Sun Farmer, Ashes Under Water and The Hidden Hindenburg. His poetry has appeared in prestigious literary journals including The Southern Review and Poetry East. Behold is his first poetry collection.
Kimberly Callas is a multi-media artist, sculptor, and the lead artist of the Social Practice project Discovering the Ecological Self. Her work has been exhibited internationally in galleries and museums.
Summary
English Grammar: The Basics offers a clear, non-jargonistic introduction to English grammar and its place in society. Rather than taking a prescriptive approach, this book helps the reader become aware of the social implications of choices they make to use standard or non-standard (regional/dialect) forms.
Readers will consider:
• what grammar is and how it fits into the structure of language;
• how grammar functions in the school curriculum, the press, broadcasting and social media, as well as how these outlets reflect and reinforce our attitudes towards grammar;
• differences between speech and writing, as well as between formality and informality;
• major different approaches to theorising and describing grammar from important grammarians, including Noam Chomsky and Michael Halliday.
Featuring a glossary of key terms and practical tips and insights from the author's 50+ years of language teaching experience around the world, this book is for anyone who has ever found themselves questioning the ‘rules’ of the English language.
