Abstract:

This paper discusses basic grammar terms which are important in second language (L2) learning and also for teachers in explaining grammar concepts. In learning grammar, there are many working terms and definitions that students need to know and most of these terms/definitions were taught through rote learning and memorization and thus provide very little ability for students to apply the grammar skills in language skills such as writing. This study shows that many teachers did have the procedural knowledge to explain the grammar concepts effectively which were translated in their students’ inability to write correct sentences. This study suggests that teachers need to plan their lesson by selecting suitable grammar prototypes that represents a (language) concept and to empower students with procedural knowledge and skill of making analysis, guessing, verification and confirmation in learning an L2 as part of the natural process of L2 acquisition.

Keywords:

Grammar prototype, pedagogical grammar.