EL504: English Grammar I (0 credits)
Chiyeko Kristin
Takayoshi, Adjunct Instructor in ESL
Spring 2005 Pasadena
DESCRIPTION:
Writing effectively to
fulfill seminary assignments assumes a solid foundation in English
grammar. However, students with limited
English language proficiency may struggle with basic sentence skills. Thus,
this course targets common grammatical errors that interfere with students'
proficiency to write clearly, accurately, and communicatively. By first
recognizing specific language problems in their own writing, students learn
strategies to correct these mistakes.
Practicing grammar in the context of writing develops students' ability
not only to form a grammatical structure but also to demonstrate its meaning
and appropriate use. This 10-week
course prepares students with the skills and confidence to become independent
self-editors who can write competent English for graduate work.
LEARNING
OUTCOMES:
•
Build self-awareness of problems in one's own grammar
• Learn the correct form, meaning, and use of grammar
• Apply grammar in writing that shows greater variety and clarity
• Write sentences that are relatively free of mistakes in grammar, mechanics
and syntax
• Become an independent self-editor with greater written fluency
COURSE FORMAT:
This class uses a
communicative, problem-solution approach to grammar. Students learn through error analysis, lectures, class discussion,
small group activities, individual exercises, and feedback conferences.
Students apply a grammar lesson in regular written practice. In a Grammar Lab, students independently
refine their grammar skills with grammar software or workbooks. Finally, regular quizzes reinforce grammar
skills.
REQUIRED
READING:
Azar,
Betty S., Understanding and Using English
Grammar with Answer Key, 3rd edition. White Plains, NY: Addison,
Wesley, Longman, Inc. (Pearson Education), 2000.
Byrd, Patricia and Beverly Benson, Problem/Solution: A Reference for ESL Writers. Boston,
MA: Heinle & Heinle Publishers,
1994.
Lane, Janet and Ellen Lange, Writing
Clearly: An Editing Guide, 2nd edition. Boston, MA: Heinle & Heinle Publishers, 1999.
RECOMMENDED READING:
Azar,
Betty S., Understanding and Using English
Grammar Workbook, 3rd edition. White Plains, NY: Addison,
Wesley, Longman, Inc. (Pearson Education), 2000.
Claire, Elizabeth, Three Little Words
A, An, and The: A Foreign Student's
Guide to English Articles. McHenry, IL:
Delta Systems Co., 1988.
Yates, Jean, The Ins and Outs of
Prepositions: A Guidebook for ESL
Students. Hauppauge, NY: Barron's,
1999.
ASSIGNMENTS:
This noncredit course is
“Satisfactory” or “Not Satisfactory.” Students sharpen their grammar skills in
exercises, academic writing tasks, quizzes, and a required Grammar Lab that
supplements class lessons.
PREREQUISITES: None.
RELATIONSHIP
TO CURRICULUM: Meets partial
requirements to advance within the ESL Program.
FINAL
EXAM: ESL Exit Exam.