Why It Matters: Grammar Basics

Why understand grammar?Decorative image.

Grammar is probably the most intimidating aspect of language. There are more than 470,000 English words in Webster’s Third New International Dictionary, and as you know, many can take on multiple meanings and uses. For instance, the word “fast” is defined nineteen different ways in Webster’s, and can be used as a noun, verb, adjective, or adverb. Are you even more intimidated now? Don’t worry. 

The resources for improvement are easily at your disposal. Every time you read a book or article, you are building your grammar skills. Every time you write or speak, you’re practicing them. If you are concentrating, your grammar skills will grow stronger—especially if you understand the basics and recognize when you’re using words incorrectly.

Some of the most common grammatical errors come in the following areas: use of verb tense, clarity of pronouns, and use of count versus non-count nouns. This writing workshop will help you identify and master all three. 

Writing Workshop: Your Working Document

Every component of the working document will be introduced throughout this module in a blue box such as this one. Open your working document now and keep it open as you progress through the module.

  1. Go to the assignment for this module in your LMS. Click on the link to open the Working Document for this module as a Google Document.
  2. Choose “file” then “make a copy” to make your own version of the document. If you prefer to download it as a word or other file, you may.Screenshot of the file, make a copy, button inside of google docs
  3. Rename it as “YOUR NAME: Working Doc – Writing Essentials” and move it to a folder where you can easily find it.screenshot of copy document and renaming settings inside of google docs
  4. Next, go to the sharing settings and change it so that “Anyone with the link can comment.” This will enable your instructor to make comments on the document.Screenshot of GoogleDocs sharing settings set to "Anyone with the link can comment"
  5. Now hold onto this document—we’ll need it soon! (You’ll submit the link to your instructor once you’ve completed the Writing Workshop activities).