English Grammar: Language As Human Behavior - Hardcover

Barry, Anita K.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 013835281X ISBN 13: 9780138352813

Publisher: Pearson College Div, 1997

Synopsis

This conversational, self-reflective guide helps readers understand the social judgments that accompany language useâ making them feel they are active participants in shaping their language rather than passive victims of grammar rules that someone imposes on them. Supplementing traditional grammar terms with insights gained by modern linguistic analysis, it describes English as an instrument of communication, and lays the necessary groundwork for thinking about language so users can apply their knowledge of language in ways most useful to them. Explores the basics of English, beginning with a discussion of the development of a standard English language and the origins of our present day rules of English and attitudes towards usage; initiates the study of grammar, emphasizing the complex interaction between language rules and behavior; talks about how one approaches the study of the structure of a language; and finally, works from the lowest levels of grammatical organization to the highestâ starting with an analysis of words and working up to the level of the sentence. Offers many different types of exercises that encourage readers to think, talk, and write about English in real-world contexts with increasing confidence and sophistication. For writers, communications professionals, and anyone interested in acquiring a better understanding of how the English language works.

About this title

From the Back Cover

This book encourages native English speakers to see the language as a product of the people who use it and to understand that these people actively shape the language. It encourages curiosity about how others use English and introduces the idea that competing descriptions of language structure and varying opinions about correctness exist. Written in an informal, conversational style, English Grammar: Language as Human Behavior combines traditional grammatical terminology with the insights of modern linguistic analysis and encourages readers to observe the language in action. A chapter on word-construction, pronunciation, and spelling demonstrates how English functions as an organic whole with interrelated parts. A valuable reference book on English Grammar for any reader wishing to understand the dynamics of English usage while improving his writing skills.

Edition details

• Publisher: Pearson College Div
• Publication date: 1997
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 013835281X
• ISBN 13: 9780138352813
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 303