Grammar Explorer is a language learning resource that was co-founded by the European Commission as a part of its Lingua programme within the SOCRATES programme. The grammar is based on the requirements of The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
The particular objective of the Lingua 2 programme is "to help raise the standards in language teaching and learning by ensuring the availability of sufficient high quality language learning instruments and tools for assessing linguistic skills acquired. Lingua 2 will encourage both the development of new tools and a wider dissemination of existing tools which represent best practice and provide European added value."[1]
Complementary to this programme and to support the objectives, the Council of Europe has produced a European-wide curriculum entitled The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. This document provides a detailed model for describing and scaling language use and the different kinds of knowledge and skills required.
There are countless internet sites that call themselves "grammars" of a certain language. Many of these online grammars are text-based reproductions of traditional descriptive print grammars which expect the student to sit in front of a computer screen and read as they would read a grammar book. These grammars view grammar as an independent system of rules that is not directly linked or relevant to language usage and the language user and learner. Further evidence of this view and approach is found in the fact that these grammars do not include practice material that asks learners/users to test their understanding and command of language usage.
None of these online grammars are structured to take advantage of the many benefits of multimedia and of the internet while successfully avoiding the inherent pitfalls of that medium. Furthermore, none of them are structured with the Basic User (as defined in the Common European Framework of Reference) in mind.
Additionally, existing online materials do not make full use of the ideas laid down in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. They do not support a syllabus such as Waystage, pitch themselves at a clearly defined level (A2) or help students to prepare for a recognized European Language Certificate.
Grammar Explorer was created to address the missing pedagogical link between grammar as rule system and the needs of the language learner. This is achieved by putting into practice a functional and constructivist pedagogical concept that focuses on the aspect of usage in the language system and the individual learner's need to acquire practical competence which does not require the ability to account for one's grammatical knowledge.
The pedagogical concept underlying Grammar Explorer is firmly rooted in Constructivism (learning theory), cognitive psychology and recent findings of the neurosciences with regard to learning. It, therefore, fulfils the criteria laid down in The Common European Framework of Reference: The materials are multi-purpose, flexible, easily accessible, dynamic and non-dogmatic.
Grammar Explorer surpasses the descriptive, form-focused grammars currently available, because it treats learners as active meaning-makers and puts them firmly in control of their learning experience. Within the structure of the grammar, learners are able to enter into a non-linear process of negotiation with grammatical material that requires and encourages the use of basic cognitive and meta-cognitive strategies such as inferencing, grouping and recombination.[2] It is through this process of exploration and negotiation that the learners acquire the type of functional grammatical competence that is essential for the successful acquisition of pragmatic competence and for the development of cognitive and metacognitive skills.
Grammar Explorer aims to seriously use a constructivist approach for developing web-based language learning material. It will, therefore, fill the gap created on the one hand through the influence of the neurosciences on language teaching methodology and on the other hand through the persistent adherence of all previously and currently published grammars to outdated concepts. There is no model for such a grammar.
Grammar Explorer is arranged in a modular way. The modules are arranged in alphabetical order rather than according to the structure of the grammar. In this respect Grammar Explorer is more like a dictionary. This is a clear indication that Grammar Explorer has adopted what the neurosciences have argued for some time, that our memory tends to store semantically, especially at the level of the Basic User.
Furthermore, the neurosciences clearly support Michael Lewis's didactic approach to language acquisition/learning that has been in circulation for about two decades now: Language must be seen as 'grammaticalized lexis'. A learner must have sufficient semantic data at hand in order to be able to construct meaning. At first this is exclusively semantic meaning, which is then transferred into higher level thinking once sufficient semantic data is available to enable the learner to infer the underlying structures. Learners move progressively from semantic meaning into more abstract syntactic and morphological meaning.
Grammar Explorer provides teachers with an exciting and proven method for teaching grammar. Going beyond grammar charts and instruction, the series assists teachers by providing thought-provoking, meaningful, and fun activities.
Students are fully engaged while learning grammar with this program, which makes for a fun and successful teaching experience. Using a systematic approach, students explore, learn, practice, and apply their new language. With content divided into manageable lessons, Grammar Explorer is easy for teachers to implement and ensures student success.
Teacher Resources:
Why do my students make these mistakes? Sammi Eckstut
What's the best way to correct students' mistakes? Daphne Mackey
Grammar Explorer tips for using a unit opener. Samuela Eckstut-Didier and Eve Einselen Yu
Tips for using prewriting strategies. Amy Cooper
Studying and teaching phrasal verbs. Paul Carne
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English Language Learners at Various Levels: It caters to high-beginning, intermediate, and high-intermediate level students. This range makes it suitable for learners who have some basic understanding of English but are looking to deepen their knowledge and use of grammar in more complex and academic contexts.
Students Preparing for Academic Success: The series is particularly beneficial for learners who aim to succeed in academic settings. It focuses on using grammar in real-life academic scenarios, such as essay and paragraph writing, which is essential for students planning to study in English-speaking environments.
Learners Seeking Comprehensive Grammar Understanding: Individuals who want to not only learn grammar rules but also apply them critically in listening, speaking, reading, and writing would find this series valuable.
Academic Skills Development: The series focuses on preparing students for academic success. It integrates grammar learning with academic skills, especially in writing, which is crucial for students aiming to study in English-speaking academic environments.
Effective Teaching Resource: For teachers, the series provides a rich source of material and activities that go beyond traditional grammar teaching. This makes the teaching process more engaging and effective, leading to better learning outcomes.
Well-Structured Curriculum: The organization of the material into manageable lessons and units helps ensure that students can master each grammar topic thoroughly before moving on, which is crucial for building a solid foundation in the language.
Expertise and Experience: Authored and edited by experienced ESL professionals, the series benefits from the depth of knowledge and understanding of language learning and teaching dynamics.
Preparation for Real-Life Application: The emphasis on applying grammar in real-life scenarios prepares students not just for academic tasks but also for everyday communication in English, enhancing their overall language proficiency.
Contextualized Grammar Instruction: Use the rich National Geographic content to present grammar in context. Encourage students to see how grammar functions in real-life situations and academic texts, rather than just as abstract rules.
Integrate Skills: Combine grammar instruction with reading, writing, speaking, and listening exercises. This holistic approach helps students see the practical application of grammar in all language skills.
Critical Thinking Activities: Incorporate activities that promote critical thinking. Challenge students to analyze and evaluate grammar usage in different texts and scenarios, encouraging deeper understanding.
Interactive and Collaborative Learning: Utilize the interactive elements of the program to foster collaborative learning. Group activities and peer reviews can be particularly effective in engaging students and enhancing their understanding through discussion and teamwork.
Flipped Classroom Model: Assign interactive eBooks and online workbook activities as homework, and use classroom time for discussion, clarification, and application of concepts. This approach allows students to learn at their own pace outside the classroom and apply their knowledge interactively in class.
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