English Grammar: Language as Human Behavior

by Anita K. Barry

Approaching grammar as a process and not a product, this text engages readers in a conversation about English that will help them reflect on how their language works and understand the social judgments that accompany language use--making them feel they are "active participants" in shaping their language rather than passive victims of grammar rules that someone imposes on them. Employing the terminology of traditional grammar combined with the insights gained by modern linguistic analysis, it describes English as an instrument of communication, and lays the necessary groundwork for thinking about language so that students can extend what they learn to new situations and apply their knowledge of language in ways most useful to them. Three different types of exercises support the learning and review processes and motivate readers to think, talk, and write about English with increasing confidence and sophistication as the term progresses.

Genres: Nonfiction, Reference, Writing, Textbooks, College, Language

256 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 1997

Reviews

[Tyler]

The first textbook I’ve ever had to fully read in any class. Surprisingly very easy to read, though! 😎

[Brian Kent]

Read for a 300 level Grammar class. 5 stars based on academic context and purpose for reading it.

Grew up scrapping by on most grammar classes and assignments. For someone with little knowledge on the subject, aside from what I picked up as an English speaker, this book was easy to understand and very beneficial in learning the subject.

[Brandilynn]

It is a good english book for english class.

[Andrew Wright]

If we just let language change without applying any effort to control that, how is it any different than the victory of entropy?

[terah]

I read this for class but it’s also on good reads, this book taught me to be the grammar police.

[Doug]

Every now and then I go in for a wee bit o'discipline. This is a great book grammar-wise. Different than any I've encountered. It will disturb traditionalists as it encourages students to view language and its structure as evolutionary. Why did I score it as with only 3 stars. It did not meet my criteria for a higher score, viz., new ideas, moving, or at least engaging story/plot/theory --- and yes, I knew this when I first scanned the book. But I'm sure her many students are grateful for the clarity of her statements, questions, and reflection exercises. I would love to sit in on a few discussions in her classroom - It's there, I suspect, her material really shines.

[J.C.]

Terrible textbook for those who struggle with grammar. Very rudimentary definitions of concepts and the examples are far too brief or missing entirely. I'm sure there are better ones out there than this.

[Ines]

This book is great if you are interested in learning the terminology for grammatical constructs. However, if you are looking for the nitty gritty of grammar, this book just doesn't have it. You are better off buying a style guide that includes punctuation.

[Julie Hendrix]

The lessons were ok, but it was difficult when the example questions didn't provide the answers to check your work.

[Lisa]

Great as an overview for many common grammar rules and mistakes.

[Alexandria Roberts]

One of my favorite textbooks