How to Hammer the Grammar

Until now we've mostly looked at tips for getting elementary students up to speed with language study, and that has meant leaving OUT the grammar to a large degree. But today I'd like to make one quick post that runs in the opposite direction.

As I have mentioned more than once, there is a time for grammar. And when that time comes, there is a right way and a wrong way to study grammatical rules. If you've taken the plunge into the uncharted, murky waters of the grammatical world, consider this tip.

Only focus on ONE grammatical rule at a time, and DON'T add another until you've really understood how to use it. And when you are learning that particular rule, create a list of phrases (just like we talked about in previous posts) that contain clear examples of how to use that rule. Get the rule into your head and then into your speech. When you find yourself using it well, add another grammar rule to the mix and repeat the process.

In my next post, I plan to give you an example of word associations and teach you a GREAT way to make them as clear and memorable as possible, so stay tuned!

It's been a busy season here with the holidays so this post came a little slowly at TLS. But I'm sure you understand and hope your winter has been a healthy and enjoyable one so far!

Until next time, happy language learning!