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

Grammar and the Role of Writing Center Tutors as Teachers of GrammarCommunication in any form requires a protocol. The evolution of language from sounds into words is proof of that. People recognized that in order for 2 people to understand each other, they must have a common code that will allow 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 enjoymentrs to communicate with clearcutness and nuance. In the English language, specifically, the import of what is communicated depends not only on the words chosen, but also on where those words ar placed and how they are modified. Semantics studies meaning and interpretation of words. This is separate from syntax, which deals with the physical location of a word (or other element of language) within a sentence (or other lingu istic construct). Today, we usually use grammar and syntax interchangeably, although syntax is a subset of grammar. Within 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 grammatical 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 more 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 kindred throw in several issuesactual gram mar, but also semantics and miscellaneous quirks of the languageand then shut the door. Over time, the inside of the closet becomes dusty and obscure, remote as well something to be both feared and ignored. Come spring, nobody wants to be responsible for cleaning the grammar closet. Sadly, with the desire to focus on critical sentiment 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.