SCORPION

Language is the basis of communication, and a thorough knowledge of, at least, one's native language is important. To use language well, one must be able to imitate or understand it. This includes having a broad vocabulary, and a comprehensive knowledge of grammar. Grammar is important in both speaking and writing, and a strong understanding of it is best achieved when grammar is taught correctly from a young age.

Spoken grammar is usually picked up directly by young children as they hear the speech patterns of those with whom they spend the most time. Young children are excellent imitators, and the most important thing that parents and teachers can do to help children learn to speak correctly is to model proper English themselves. In one way, strong writing skills are developed in this manner as well. Writing is merely an extension of speaking, and those who are able to speak in a grammatical way in conversation, will often be able to express themselves well in writing.

On a second level, written grammar can be learned through imitation. Children can learn to write in a grammatically correct way through imitating the writing of others. This can be done through reading, and copywork. Reading a variety of different material exposes the child to a variety of sentence patterns, and allows children to see grammar in action. Copywork is a way to teach writing, without direct instruction. Sentences are chosen, either meaningful quotes, or direct passages from good literature. Students copy. As students are able, they can write from dictation. This teaches the structure of language, and enables the youngest students to learn the mechanics of writing, without being explicitly taught.

To be most effective as a speaker, and a writer, a solid understanding of formal grammar is required. This requires direct instruction. Teaching the parts of speech will give students the nomenclature and basic understanding needed. More complex grammar can be taught systematically. Sentence diagramming is one way to develop an intricate understanding of grammar. This will enable students to not only speak or write correctly, but to analyze why a sentence is incorrect, and give them the ability to correct it.

Both spoken and written grammar can learned in a multitude of ways, and the importance of developing proper grammar in young students is clear. Whether learned through hearing the spoken word, reading, copying, or analyzing, the ability to use language well will benefit students throughout their lives.