During
the first weeks of this semester I have had the opportunity not only to discuss
and learn many things regarding grammar patterns, but also criticize different
teaching methods. While participating in the Socratic seminars developed in
class, we have shared our opinions and brought up thoughts and ideas on what it
is the best way to teach grammar. One of the things that we criticized was the
traditional instruction at schools. It is a bit frustrating and sad to know
that there are still some teachers that use traditional methods to explain, for
instance, punctuation, and do not care too much about the meaning and ideas
that their students want to develop. On the contrary, they only focus on form
and structure of a piece of writing. In my opinion, the traditional method does
not work because its characteristics
do not include the encouragement to compose a piece of writing focus on content
and creativity. I think it is essential to keep in mind that punctuation is a
process (with developmental implications), acquired over time, and an indicator
of language awareness; therefore, we need to be careful with the different
tools that we use to teach the proper use of grammar and punctuation to our
students. Even for us it is difficult to accomplish grammar or punctuation
rules because they are constantly exposed to different adjustments and
modifications. When I first started to learn mechanics in English, it was difficult
to figure out where a punctuation mark had to be placed. It was different than
the punctuation I learned in Spanish. As
a second language learner, I am aware of the different challenges that young
native speakers face; as a future teacher, I am willing to help my students to
succeed in grammar.
Finally,
I would like to mention that this course has been really helpful for me.
Listening to my classmates’ discussions and sharing different perspectives have
helped me to broaden my knowledge about grammar and also about American classrooms.
My knowledge about the American culture is not that deeper as theirs, obviously.
I really like that you said, "punctuation is a process." I believe that is a very accurate explanation of the writing process. Creativity is important especially in the beginning stages of writing. If that is curbed then it will discourage children from wanting to write. Pounding the strict facts and mechanics of writing into a child's head will give him a headache, not a love for writing. When you admitted that we as teachers still struggle with punctuation by saying,“Even for us it is difficult to accomplish grammar or punctuation rules because they are constantly exposed to different adjustments and modifications” I thought that was a great thing to recognize and become comfortable with even when we are trying to teach our students.
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