A thorough study of traditional English grammar and discussion of some non-traditional questions. We attempt to demystify the language of grammar, learn to analyze sentences, contrast literary styles through the language of grammar, and consider differences between dialects and Standard English. Attention will be given to applications for both native and non-native learners of English
Course objectives: At the end of this course students will be able to:
1. demonstrate knowledge and understanding of English grammar
2. show various purposes for which language is used
3. recognize the impact of cultural, economic, political and social environ-
ments upon language, and
4. take informed stands on issues of professional concern.
Elaine Brooks
Practical English Grammar
1. Course text: An Introduction to English Grammar, 3rd ed., by Sidney Greenbaum and Gerald Nelson (Pearson Longman, 2009).
2. Participation: Be prepared with written exercises/assignments in order to discuss them and raise questions as well as to respond to classmates and instructor. Prompt and regular attendance is also a requirement; no more than 4 unexcused absences, please. In addition to written homework (grammar exercises, stylistic analyses, and responses to readings), there will be approximately 4 quizzes and a final exam.
3. Grading:
Written homework (grammar exercises, stylistic analyses, and responses): 40%
Four quizzes: 40%
Final exam: 20%
Every topic page under the Units will have extra quiz and video resources for extra practice. Required vs. assignments will be noted on each page.
Note: The dates indicate the day homework is due. Exercises should be done on a separate sheet of paper, not in book unless so instructed
Unit 1:
Unit 2
Tu. 3/12 Continue Ch. 4.
Th. 3/14 Ch. 5, Usage Problems, pp. 125-141 (pp. 141-7, ex. 5.1-5.19)
Tu. 3/19 continue
Th. 3/21 Quiz #2 (adjectives and adverbs, prepositional phrases, coordinating
conjunctions, and word forms)
Unit 3
Tu. 3/26 Ch. 8 Punctuation (pp. 205-220 (pp. 220-5 ex. 8.1-8.7)
Th. 3/28 continue Ch. 8 (ex. 8.8-8.14)
Tu. 4/2 Ch. 9 Spelling pp. 227-243; ex. 9.1-9.6 on pp. 243-5
Th. 4/4 continue Ch. 9, ex. 9.7-9.12
Tu. 4/9 Ch. 6 Style, read pp. 149-58, ex. 6.1-6.5, pp. 159-160
Th. 4/11 Ch. 6 Style, pp. 149-58, ex. 160-161, 6.6-6.10.
Tu. 4/16 Quiz #3 (infinitive and participial phrases; adjective clauses, appositives;
misplaced and dangling modifiers); Style continued.
Th. 4/18 Read Smitherman article and prepare one-page reaction/questions. For after spring break, start memorizing Salomone handout, pp. 300-303 re Irregular verbs).
(Spring break 4/19 to 4/28)
Unit 4
Tu. 4/30 Ch. 7 English in Use, pp. 163-top182, ex. pp. 197- 199, 7.1-7.7
Th. 5/2 Continue Ch. 7, pp. 182-top197, ex. 7.8-7.10, pp. 199-201
Tu. 5/7 Review and discussion - Quiz #4 (Verbs: Forms, tense, aspect, and voice)
Th. 5/9 Review and discussion continued. All work should be submitted by now.
Tu. 5/14: Final class, TBA
Final exam: TBA
Plagiarism: Brooklyn College's statement on plagiarism is as follows: The faculty and
administration of Brooklyn College support an environment free from cheating and plagiarism. Each
student is responsible for being aware of what constitutes cheating and plagiarism and for avoiding
both. The complete text of the CUNY Academic Integrity Policy and the Brooklyn College procedure
for implementing that policy can be found at this site: http://www.brooklyn.cuny.edu/bc/policies.
Non-attendance Because of Religious Beliefs: Brooklyn College’s statement on non-attendance
because of religious belief is located on page 66 of the Brooklyn College Undergraduate Bulletin:
http://www.brooklyn.cuny.edu/web/off_registrar/2017-2018_Undergraduate_Bulletin.pdf
Student Bereavement Policy: Brooklyn College’s statement on non-attendance because of religious belief is located here http://www.brooklyn.cuny.edu/web/about/initiatives/policies/bereavement.php
Important Dates
Friday, January 25, Weekday classes begin
February 12, College closed – Lincoln’s birthday
February 18, College closed – Presidents’ Day
April 19-28 Spring Recess
May 15, Reading Day; Undergraduate Final Exams.
May 16-22 Undergraduate Final Exams Day/Eve;
May 27 College closed – Memorial Day
The full academic calendar, including many other important dates, and the undergraduate final exam
“grid” are available on the Office of the Registrar’s website.