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How To Build Grammer
Posted Date: 04 Jul 2008 Resource Type: Articles/Knowledge Sharing Category: Education
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Posted By: sunil Member Level: Diamond
Rating:  Points: 2
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Most learners find it difficult to cope with the subject. The reasons vary, but the cause is the same. Most of us prefer to stick to our very own 'Wren and Martin'. Others choose other options. So, what is the best way to learn a language and be proficient in it?
Grammar is a section of linguistics that deals with the form and structure of words (morphology) and how they fit in best in a sentence (syntax). The study of grammar divulges how a language works or functions. Here are a few points that can help you with your grammar:
Speak in English
In India, a majority of people first come across grammar as a second language, in a school curriculum. This kind of grammar is called normative, or prescriptive grammar. It defines the role of various parts of speech and tells us what is the norm or 'correct' usage.
Prescriptive grammar defines the way words and sentences are to be composed so a speaker will be perceived as possessing good grammar. We can really improve our grammar if we continue to speak in English. Your speech will reflect patterns you hear and the rest will fall in place. Find a friend who can speak with you in English, and move on. Whenever you feel stuck, ask!
Read and practise
The more you read, the better you get with your vocabulary. It improves grammar too. If possible, read aloud. Functional grammar deals with the way in which words and word order are used in social perspectives to get the message across. However, if you have a sudden dislike towards heavy grammar books, try the 'parrot method.' This refers to listening and repeating things as many times as possible, so it becomes natural for you to say it that way. 'Pimsleur', a company that has done some work in this area, also offers a program based on this. .
Reading aloud is simpler, because you eventually are listening to correct grammar as you read it. Watching television also helps. It works better if we watch what we are really interested in, although the BBC is always a great option. The English spoken in America is different from that spoken in England, which is what we are taught in India. Some parts of spelling and grammar vary between the two countries as well.
Will poor English affect my job interview?
Find a tutor
Some of us may disagree with the idea of going to a teacher for grammar lessons, but why not? If you are looking for an alternative, practice grammar using online exercises. There are a number of sites that offer exercises on a range of topics. While using a computer to type a document, grammar checkers can be very helpful too.
There are some common perceptions about spoken English, but it is always good to have an open mind. Also, stick to basics as far as possible. It will take time, but continuous practice will help. We often use phrasal verbs and idioms without a complete knowledge of where they fit in. For example, we use 'passed out' to describe clearing an exam or assessment. However, for a native speaker, it would mean 'to faint, or lose consciousness'. People may make fun of poor grammar, but it's your choice to pay attention and lose focus or ignore them and move on. Remember, an accent is never a requirement for speaking in English. As long, as you are clear and able to communicate your thoughts well, all is well.
Grammar, hate it though some of us may, is one of the most visible things about your writing. Whether you're a professional writer or a student looking to get good grades on papers, grammar can make and break othersperception of your writing. Think about it: how many times have you seen misplaced apostrophes or run-on sentences? Does it make you think just a little bit less of the writer? Grammar is so easy to do well and can be a joy in and of itself when done right. Here are a couple easy tips on using correct grammar to enhance your writing.
1. Don't write like you talk.
This is a natural tendency for many people. In many ways, it just makes sense. But beware! This will lead you down Deep Dark Paths of Unrighteousness. When we talk, we tend to use run-on sentences, adding clauses here and there and every which way. This is fine for oral communication, but looks sloppy on paper. Try to separate your thoughts into distinct sentences. To start with, put each thought down and end it firmly with a period. When you've established that habit, start stringing together thoughts with words like and, but, or or. Although you can put many thoughts in one sentence, it's easier to write and to read if you keep your sentences clean and concise.
2. When it comes to words, less is more.
Weve all read it: the writer who refuses to step away from the thesaurus. Boring, isnt it? We dont need to be told that the grass is lush, green, verdant, emeraldine, and so on and so forth. The grass is green. Trust in the imagination of your readers; its better to err on the side of caution with things like this. Clarity and austerity are always better than messiness. If you find yourself reaching for synonyms to tack on the end of your descriptions, stop. Youll thank yourself for it later.
3. Engage your memory.
Try some simple memory devices to reduce your mistakes. There are a lot of things that are quite easy to mix up. The difference between the words their, there, and heyre is commonly forgotten. Try to formulate simple phrases that will help you remember the difference between them. Make sure to use things that are important to you! Youll remember them better that way. Heres something I use Did you get the invitation to their party? Yes, theyre quite nice. Id like to go, but I dont know how to get there. By associating these words with phrases you say every day, you can more easily see the fine distinctions between them.
4. Relax!
Grammar is easier than you think. We read and write so much every day that many of the rules of grammar are subconsciously embedded in you. If it sounds right and looks right, it probably is right. Keep it simple your words and ideas should be what shine, not your apostrophes and parentheses. If you dont know how to use, say, a semicolon, then dont. Your writing wont suffer for it, youll be more comfortable, and your pristine grammar will impress your readers. Youll seem smarter and more polished, and thats a win no matter how you phrase it. Good luck!
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