Reach All Readers [Listen again] A lively discussion about syntax, grammar, and punctuation - with Lyn Stone
Dec 22, 2025
Lyn Stone, linguist, author, and school coach specializing in literacy and morphology, chats about grammar, syntax, and punctuation. She explains teaching word function in context and personifying parts of speech to engage learners. Practical strategies include anchor sentences, sentence marking, clause vs phrase distinctions, and how punctuation and morphemes change with use.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Grammar Versus Syntax
- Grammar is an overarching system of rules; syntax specifically handles word arrangement and relationships.
- Teaching grammar builds meta-language that empowers students to communicate purposefully in speech and writing.
Teach Words In Context
- Avoid teaching parts of speech in isolation and always show words in context within utterances.
- Use relationships between words rather than rote definitions to build useful meta-language.
Personify Parts Of Speech
- Personify parts of speech to increase engagement and transfer for learners with language difficulties.
- Use memorable characters and illustrations to make grammar stick for both teachers and students.
