Description
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.
Table 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
