Rhetorical Grammar: Grammatical Choices, Rhetorical Effects - Softcover

Martha J. Kolln

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0023658614 ISBN 13: 9780023658617

Publisher: Macmillan Usa, 1990

Synopsis

Rhetorical Grammar is a writer's grammar - a text that presents grammar as a rhetorical tool, avoiding the do's and don'ts so long associated with the study of grammar. It reveals to student writers the system of grammar that they know subconsciously and encourages them to use that knowledge to understand their choices as writers and the effects of those choices on their readers. Besides providing key strategies for revision, Rhetorical Grammar presents systematic discussions of reader expectation, sentence rhythm and cohesion, subordination and coordination, punctuation, modifiers, diction, and other principles. Studying grammar from this rhetorical point of view defines the study of language as an intellectual exercise designed to open up students' minds to the versatility, beauty, and possibilities of language.

About this title

From the Back Cover

Most writers, even very good ones, would probably admit to a lack of knowledge of and confidence regarding grammar. Many can write good sentences; but shouldn't they be able to discuss them, thinking about alternatives? And many can punctuate their sentences; but shouldn't they, too, be able to explain why? The place in the writing process where a knowledge of grammar often makes the biggest difference is in the revision process. This book therefore provides its readers with the tools to have more confidence in their writing, to have the ability to talk about why they made the writing choices they did, and to see the versatility, beauty and vast possibilities of language. Presenting grammar as a rhetorical tool, this book avoids the "do's and don'ts" so long associated with grammar. It reveals to readers the system of grammar they already know subconsciously, encouraging them to use that knowledge to understand their choices as writers. In addition to providing key strategies for revision, the book presents systematic discussions of audience expectation, sentence rhythm and cohesion, subordination and coordination, punctuation, modifiers, diction, and other principles. Writers, teachers, and anyone who writes in general.

Edition details

• Publisher: Macmillan Usa
• Publication date: 1990
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0023658614
• ISBN 13: 9780023658617
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 237