English Grammar Rules
Even YouTubers and Reporters Forget
Our speaking and writing voices differ. Depending upon the environment we find ourselves in, our speech may be casual while our writing -- especially in business situations --will undoubtedly be more formal. That is, again, depending on the type of writing we are doing. Whether casual or formal, how we speak and write conveys many things about us:
- how serious we are about the topic
- what we know
- whether we understand the rules of subject/verb agreement and verb tense.
Communicating clearly without grammatical errors will focus attention on our content rather than on our slip-ups.
I also know how using words incorrectly can completely derail an intended message. Proper grammar usage in speech and writing gives you credibility, a useful trait to have when communicating with an audience.
I've listed some of the errors I hear repeatedly, even from seasoned journalists. Then I show how to fix these errors.
Verb Tense
Incorrect: "I have ran the numbers."
Correct: "I ran the numbers" or "I have run the numbers."
Incorrect: "I had went to the crime scene."
Correct: "I went to the crime scene." or "I had/have gone to the crime scene."
Subject and Verb Agreement
Not in agreement: There is (or there’s) two reasons why I believe that.
In agreement: There are (or there’re) two reasons why I believe that.
In this sentence, the word “are” (linking verb) connects to the subject – “two reasons” -- and conveys the idea that “two reasons” exist.
Choosing the Right Pronoun
Incorrect: Her and I sang at the concert last night.
Correct: She and I sang at the concert last night.
Incorrect: Her and him are my friends.
Correct: She and he are my friends.
Below is an excerpt from chapter two of the interactive workbook I wrote: The Eight Parts of Speech.
"Personal pronouns can be used in place of a proper noun or common noun for a person, group, or even a thing (as in "it").Normally when you use a name for someone for the first time when writing or speaking, you will use either the proper name or the common name, such as Mr. Thomas or teacher. The second time you name the same person you could use a personal pronoun. By using pronouns in this way, the reader or audience will understand who the pronoun refers to."
Also covered in The Eight Parts of Speech are verb tenses. These examples are presented in dialogue between students in the video and in chart form in chapter three. While this interactive workbook provides instruction, it can also serve as a reference for adults and children alike.
Learn the basics of language usage with The Eight Part of Speech! Contained in this workbook you will find chapter videos, fillable exercises, and an answer key that make learning fun and easy!
This comprehensive interactive workbook covers all the essential elements of speech. It is a valuable addition to your digital library and supplements your child's current lessons. Keep it on hand for quick reference!