Grammar and the Role of Writing Center Tutors as Teachers of Grammar :: Teaching Writing Grammer Education

Grammar and the Role of indite Center Tutors as Teachers of GrammarCommunication in any form requires a protocol. The evolution of language from sounds into words is make of that. People recognized that in order for two people to understand each other, they must have a common code that will leave alone each one to transmit and receive signals accurately. If the word red signified two different colors to two different people, for example, then there would be a breakdown of communication. Language has grown complex over time and in its current form, it enables users to communicate with precision and nuance. In the English language, specifically, the meaning of what is communicated depends not only on the words chosen, but also on where those words are placed and how they are modified. Semantics studies meaning and interpretation of words. This is separate from syntax, which deals with the physical placement of a word (or other element of language) within a sentence (or other lingui stic construct). Today, we usually use grammar and syntax interchangeably, although syntax is a subset of grammar. inside the context of Writing Centers, this is acceptable, because when the issue of grammar comes up, it is always a matter of syntax we never, for example, deal with phonology, which is also a subset of grammar. However, semantic issues are sometimes labeled grammatic issues, which is not correct. One might argue that what we call these issues does not matter so long as they are dealt with appropriately. In truth, it does matter, because by lumping semantic issues together with syntactic issues makes grammatical issues as a whole a larger issue, which is undesirable because grammar is already a much feared and religiously avoided area. I imagine a small, dark closet labeled Grammar, in an obscure part of the house that represents all the issues that Writing Centers deal with. Into the Grammar closet, students and tutors alike throw in several issues certain grammar, but also semantics and miscellaneous quirks of the languageand then shut the door. Over time, the inside of the closet becomes dusty and obscure, inaccessible as well something to be twain feared and ignored. Come spring, nobody wants to be responsible for cleaning the grammar closet. Sadly, with the desire to focus on critical thinking in papers (i.e. content), those who plan Expository Writing classes or provide tutoring for it have gone from saying, Critical thinking is the primary focus to saying Critical thinking is the only focus.