ERIC Number: EJ1178108
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2016
Pages: 5
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
A Positive Approach to Good Grammar
Kuehner, Alison V.
NADE Digest, v8 n1 p42-46 Fall 2016
Correct grammar is important for precise, accurate, academic prose, but the traditional skills-based approach to teaching grammar is not effective if the goal is good writing. The sentence-combining approach shows promise. However, sentence modeling is more likely to produce strong writing and enhance reading comprehension. Through sentence modeling and understanding how punctuation makes meaning, developmental writers can employ sophisticated sentences, use punctuation effectively, and follow the conventions of standard English with minimal grammar instruction. Students analyze how and why authors make certain moves in their writing, then produce similar effects in their own writing. Inspired by Constance Weaver's approach to grammar that is "positive, productive, and practical" and by Rei Noguchi's emphasis on minimal grammatical terminology, this method makes for engaged instruction and retention of skills.
Descriptors: Grammar, Writing Skills, Punctuation, English, Standard Spoken Usage, Teaching Methods, Sentences, Writing Instruction, Retention (Psychology), Role, Reading Comprehension, Skill Development, English Instruction
National Association for Developmental Education. 170 Kinnelon Road Suite 33, Kinnelon, NJ 07405. Tel: 877-233-9455; Fax: 973-838-7124; e-mail: office@nade.net; Web site: http://nade.net
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A