English Grammar: Language as Human Behavior, Second Edition

by Anita K. Barry

This conversational, self-reflective guide helps readers 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. 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 highest—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.

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

256 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 1997

Reviews

[Tyler · Rating 3 out of 5]

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

[Brian Kent · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 · Rating 3 out of 5]

It is a good english book for english class.

[Andrew Wright · Rating 1 out of 5]

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

[terah · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Doug · Rating 3 out of 5]

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. · Rating 2 out of 5]

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 · Rating 3 out of 5]

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 · Rating 3 out of 5]

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

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Alexandria Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite textbooks