Teaching grammar terms

As a language teacher, I believe that it’s essential to strike a balance when it comes to teaching grammar terms. While I understand the approach of using simple terms like "Tense," "Perfect," or "Past," especially with beginner learners, I also think that over time, students benefit from becoming familiar with a wider range of grammar terminology.However, as learners progress, it’s important to introduce more specific grammar terms, such as "Present Perfect," "Conditional," "Subjunctive," or "Direct Object," to deepen their understanding of the language. Knowing these terms helps students understand the underlying structure of the language and allows them to refine their usage for more accurate and sophisticated communication.

Акбарова пишет:

As a language teacher, I believe that it’s essential to strike a balance when it comes to teaching grammar terms. While I understand the approach of using simple terms like "Tense," "Perfect," or "Past," especially with beginner learners, I also think that over time, students benefit from becoming familiar with a wider range of grammar terminology.However, as learners progress, it’s important to introduce more specific grammar terms, such as "Present Perfect," "Conditional," "Subjunctive," or "Direct Object," to deepen their understanding of the language. Knowing these terms helps students understand the underlying structure of the language and allows them to refine their usage for more accurate and sophisticated communication.

 

That's a good point, Ms Akbarova, that for more accurate communication that occurs in written or academic speech students should know complex grammar. But would you agree that they need to know the complex grammar use but not term, like "present Perfect Continuous" or "Present Perfect Passive". Or I'm mistaken? 

I completely agree with your perspective. A balanced approach to teaching grammar terms is crucial. While simpler terms can be effective for introducing basic concepts, a deeper understanding of grammar requires more specific terminology.

By introducing more advanced grammar terms as students progress, we empower them to:

Analyze language more critically: They can identify and understand complex sentence structures and nuances.
Communicate more effectively: A solid grasp of grammar enables them to express themselves precisely and persuasively.
Become more independent learners: They can research and learn independently, using grammar references and online resources.
However, it's important to present these terms in a clear and accessible way. Using real-life examples, visual aids, and practice exercises can help students connect the terminology to their own language use. Additionally, encouraging students to use grammar terms in their own writing and speaking can reinforce their understanding.

By striking a balance between simplicity and precision, we can equip our students with the tools they need to become confident and proficient language users.