Table of Contents
Introduction
Grammar teaching is a complex endeavor, often caught between descriptive grammar (how language is used) and prescriptive grammar (how it “should” be used).
While both approaches offer valuable insights, neither alone fully meets the needs of language learners. This is where pedagogical grammar comes in—a practical, learner-centered approach that bridges the gap between theory and practice. By focusing on what learners need to know at each stage of their journey, pedagogical grammar makes grammar accessible, manageable, and effective.
Descriptive vs. Prescriptive Grammar
Let’s first understand the difference between descriptive and prescriptive grammar.
1. Descriptive Grammar
Descriptive grammar seeks to understand and document language as it is used in real-life contexts. It acknowledges that language is dynamic and constantly evolving, shaped by cultural, social, and technological changes. For example, the increasing use of “singular they” (e.g., “Everyone brought their own lunch”) reflects a shift in how English is spoken, even if it challenges traditional prescriptive rules.
2. Prescriptive Grammar
Prescriptive grammar, in contrast, aims to regulate language use by defining what is “correct” or “incorrect.” It often relies on standardized rules, such as the distinction between “fewer” and “less” or the proper use of “whom.” While these rules provide clarity and consistency, they can sometimes feel rigid and disconnected from how people actually speak.
The Strengths and Limitations of Both Approaches
1. The Evolution of Language: A Case for Descriptive Grammar
Language is not static; it evolves over time. Rules change as societies are influenced by external factors such as globalization, technological advancements, and cultural shifts. For descriptivists, it is more practical to describe language as it is used rather than how it “should” be used.
For example, English has undergone significant changes in recent decades. In an insightful article titled Current Changes in English Syntax, Christian Mair and Geoffrey Leech highlight several ongoing developments, including:
- Regularization of irregular morphology (e.g., “dreamt” becoming “dreamed”).
- Revival of the mandative subjunctive (e.g., “We demand that she take part in the meeting”).
- Decline of “whom” in favor of “who.”
- Use of “singular they” (e.g., “Everybody came in their car”).
These changes illustrate the dynamic nature of language and underscore the importance of descriptive grammar in capturing its evolution.
2. The Role of Prescriptive Grammar: Setting Standards
While descriptive grammar focuses on how language is used, prescriptive grammar aims to define “standard” language forms and provide guidelines for effective communication. Prescriptivists argue that certain constructions are inherently correct, while others, even if widely used, are incorrect.
However, prescriptive grammar has its limitations. By adhering to an idealized set of rules, prescriptivists may advocate for forms that have little basis in actual usage. This can lead to an artificial version of language that feels disconnected from how people naturally speak and write.
Why Pedagogical Grammar Matters
1. What Is Pedagogical Grammar?
Pedagogical grammar is a practical, learner-centered approach to teaching grammar. It selects, simplifies, and organizes grammar rules to make them accessible and relevant for learners at different stages of proficiency. Unlike descriptive grammar, which documents language in all its complexity, or prescriptive grammar, which enforces rigid rules, pedagogical grammar focuses on what learners need to know to communicate effectively.
3. The Importance and Rationale Behind Pedagogical Grammar
- Learner-Centered Focus
Pedagogical grammar prioritizes high-frequency structures and essential rules that enable learners to communicate effectively. For example, teaching the present simple tense (“I eat”) before introducing the present perfect continuous (“I have been eating”) ensures that learners build a strong foundation. - Cognitive Load Management
Learning a new language is mentally demanding. Pedagogical grammar reduces cognitive overload by introducing rules incrementally. For instance, beginners might learn that stative verbs like “think” and “have” are not used in the continuous form, while advanced learners later discover exceptions like “I am thinking about you” or “I am having a party.” - Bridging Theory and Practice
Pedagogical grammar bridges the gap between the descriptive reality of language and the prescriptive ideals of “correct” usage. For example, it might acknowledge that “less people” is commonly used in spoken English while still teaching the prescriptive rule of “fewer people” for formal contexts. - Promoting Communicative Competence
The ultimate goal of language learning is effective communication. Pedagogical grammar focuses on rules and structures that help learners express themselves clearly and confidently. For instance, teaching the correct order of adjectives (“a beautiful red dress”) enables learners to communicate more naturally.
Examples of Pedagogical Grammar in Action
- Simplifying Verb Tenses
Instead of teaching all 12 verb tenses at once, pedagogical grammar introduces them gradually. Beginners might start with the present simple and present continuous, while advanced learners tackle more complex forms like the past perfect continuous. - Handling Exceptions Strategically
Pedagogical grammar often delays teaching exceptions until learners have mastered the basics. For example, the rule that stative verbs are not used in the continuous form is taught early on, with exceptions introduced later. - Prioritizing High-Frequency Structures
Pedagogical grammar focuses on structures that learners are most likely to encounter and use. For instance, teaching the s-genitive (“the book’s cover”) is more practical for beginners than delving into its use with non-human nouns.
The Role of Teachers in Pedagogical Grammar
Teachers play a crucial role in implementing pedagogical grammar effectively. They must:
- Adapt to Learners’ Needs: Tailor grammar instruction to the proficiency level and goals of their students.
- Provide Context: Show how grammar rules apply in real-life communication.
- Gradually Introduce Complexity: Start with simple rules and add exceptions and nuances over time.
- Encourage Exploration: Help learners discover patterns and irregularities on their own as they advance.
Conclusion
Pedagogical grammar is not about oversimplifying language or ignoring its complexities. It’s about making grammar accessible, manageable, and relevant for learners.
By focusing on what students need to know at each stage of their learning journey, pedagogical grammar empowers them to communicate effectively and confidently. It bridges the gap between the descriptive reality of language and the prescriptive ideals of “correct” usage, creating a balanced approach that serves both learners and teachers.
As language continues to evolve, so too must our approach to teaching grammar. Pedagogical grammar reminds us that the ultimate goal of language learning is not to memorize rules but to use language as a tool for connection, expression, and understanding. What steps will you take to embrace this approach in your teaching?
References
- Barber, C. (1964). Linguistic Change in Present-Day English. London and Edinburgh: Oliver & Boyd.
- Mair, C., & Leech, G. (2006). Current Changes in English Syntax. English Today, 22(2), 19-27.
- Thornbury, S. (1999). How to Teach Grammar. Pearson Education.
