Our blog topic for this week was to address what we’ve learned so far about grammar and punctuation in class, but to be entirely honest, I’ve understood the concepts taught in class for quite a while now. Ever since I started doing mad-libs as a child, I’ve understood the basic parts of speech. These building blocks then helped me learn more complicated things like prepositions. When it came time to learn about the larger structure of a sentence incorporating the terms noun phrase, and direct object became a natural step of progression for me.
The things I have loved the most are the activities I have done. The grammar scrapbook is becoming almost an obsession of mine. I scour the newspaper and magazine for interesting words, creative punctuation, or the rare mistake in print. I force my roommates to watch classic musicals (Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, West Side Story) with me while I cut and glue examples. If I ever have a class that focuses specifically on grammar, I can say with confidence that I would incorporate this project into my plan. Even if my class doesn’t revolve around grammar, I may consider using it anyway.
The other technique I’ve really enjoyed is the use of newspapers in class. This allows us to use real examples and do a physical kinesthetic activity that helps us learn the parts of speech. AND it’s fun. We’re able to work in groups and have active discussions about why an author may have chosen to construct a sentence in a particular way and because there is such a diversity in sentence structure in newspaper headlines, we are able to have more of an authentic experience and connect our learning to “the real world” instead of just filling out answer sheets or doing worksheets. Thanks for the great ideas Barbara!
Question: I know what the direct object of a sentence is, but I remember learning about the indirect object in high school. Unfortunately, I can’t remember what it is. Does anyone else know?
Good question! If I am correct,a indirect object is to what or whom the verb(action) is being done to. Also, to have a indirect object their has to be the direct object. (i.e: The teacher gave us a great assignment). Here the direct object is us because the teacher is giving the assignment to them (us).
ReplyDeleteIf I remember (and understood) correctly, the indirect object tells the "for whom" or "to whom" of a sentence.
ReplyDeleteFor example: she brought ME the book.
SHE being the subject, the BOOK being the direct object, and ME being the indirect object.
So, I guess you could say it's the receiver of the direct object.
Nailed it, both of you! Also, Katy, look on p. 8 of our coursepack, pattern VIII, for the indirect-direct object combo.
ReplyDeleteP.S. I love your pattern example! A nice short, punchy sentence that also begins with and.
Sweet.