Grammar has long been seen as the foundation of our language, but whether it is necessary for it to be specifically studied is often overlooked. Is learning grammar necessary for learning how to read and write? Is it necessary for learning other languages? How extensively should grammar be taught, if at all?
Learning grammar is important
Grammar is the foundation of our language. It is essential for learning how to read, write, and communicate clearly and effectively.
Grammar helps us to communicate more effectively
Proper grammar is important in helping us to communicate and understand one another. Sentence structure is important in speaking, reading, and writing.
Understanding our own grammar is essential for learning and adapting to the grammar of other languages. Learning a foreign language's proper sentence structure will help one in forming sentences that are clear and understandable to speakers of said language.
Grammar is the foundation of any language. More time should be spent at the fundamental level of any subject in order to build a proper base upon which to learn the higher level skills.
Learning grammar is a waste of time. It does not help students learn how to communicate better. It only causes more confusion and slows down the process of learning how to read and write.
Grammar does not need to be taught because it is intuitive
We already learn proper grammar simply through language acquisition. By practicing reading, writing, and speaking, we learn better how to hone our skills to become more effective at communication. Studying grammar only impedes student progress.
The time spent on learning grammar could be better spent on more essential language skills, such as practice in reading, writing, speaking, and giving/receiving feedback.
Language is constantly evolving. Legitimate changes in the way we speak and the words we use are often incorrectly labeled as "bad grammar." This is incorrect; we simply need language to adapt to suit our current needs.
Studying grammar gives us insight, but doesn't teach communication
We can learn many things about our language and others by learning grammar, but grammar does not teach us how to communicate with one another. Language enthusiasts may find it fascinating, but it is nonessential to students in general.
While learning grammar can be useful, it should not take up a bulk of students' time because the time could be better spent on more important communication skills. Instead, grammar should be taught only when spare time is found, or even as an elective course.
