Integrating Grammar into Communication in English Teaching

       First of all, as a teacher of English, we should regard grammar as something meaningful instead of rules, structure and functions only. In fact, the teaching of grammar should be interactive & meaningful, rather than boring. We should give learners a new concept, a new way to look at grammar: when we say something is grammatical, we mean it is meaningful and appropriate (do not mean being accurate).

       Secondly, grammar is a skill instead of an area of knowledge. The memorization of grammar rules does not mean mastery of the language. Our task is to help learners grasp the language by using it: reading, listening, speaking, and above all communicating.

       Thirdly, grammar deals with reasons instead of rules. The language is living, and grammar of it is dynamic. In addition, there are exceptions to any rules. Therefore, we shouldn’t stick firmly to the rules without any agility. If you make yourself understood, then you are successful, whether or not your speech is grammatical. On most occasions, we might find some reasons to support a certain structure, for grammar is not arbitrary (while language is arbitrary). For example, as for the following examples, we can rely on the New/Old info Theory to give reasons:

       Harold turned on the radio.

       Harold turned the radio on.

       Harold turned it on.

      * Harold turned on it.

       To sum up, the teaching of grammar is not an easy thing, but far from boring. Besides the above concept of grammar, the success will be determined by some other factors such as enhancing the input, raising the consciousness and productive practice. Let us work together to make grammar teaching meaningful & effective.