Personal Journey Through Grammar: From Secondary School to Professional Editing
Grammar is the backbone of language proficiency, and as an editor and writer, I have experienced a diverse range of methods through which one can learn and master it. My journey through grammar began in primary school and continued to be refined throughout my secondary education and beyond.
Foundations in Primary School
The foundation for good grammar is typically laid in primary school, where fundamental concepts are introduced. This foundation is then built upon in secondary school, where a more structured and detailed approach to grammar is often taken. I was lucky to have a team of teachers who encouraged me to write and speak to perfection, ultimately fostering a passion for the English language, which serves as a testament to the positive impact of a well-taught grammar curriculum.
Secondary School Grammar Education
My experience with grammar took a more deliberate path during my middle school years, specifically in Grades 7 and 8. I learned the intricacies of the language through an intensive two-year English program. Mrs. Edna Philp was a highly qualified teacher who corrected my writing and speech, thereby reinforcing the rules of grammar. This methodical approach proved to be highly effective, ensuring a strong foundation before moving on to more advanced studies.
Honing Linguistic Skills Through Further Studies
Beyond secondary school, my linguistic skills were further honed through the study of Latin and French, which significantly improved my vocabulary and spelling. These courses provided a solid background in language structure and theory, preparing me for the rigors of comparative stylistics in university, where I delved into the nuances of French and English grammar, vocabulary, and etymology. This comparative study was particularly challenging yet immensely rewarding, contributing to my professional expertise as an editor.
Continued Learning and Professional Development
My grammar skills were further refined through various professional certifications, namely the CELTA (Cambridge Certificate of English Language Teaching to Adults). This 12-week course provided extensive training in English grammar and usage, which has been invaluable in my role as a book editor. My passion for grammar also stems from my voracious reading habit, where I have logged over 700 books since 2015. This continuous exposure to diverse writing styles has kept my grammar, spelling, and usage skills sharp.
Recollection of Past Experiences
A notable experience from my secondary school years was the custom grammar books we were required to write in the 8th grade. Each student explained the grammar rules and provided examples, along with exceptions, in full sentences. Additionally, we had to parse sentences, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the language.
After completing my university studies in English, I became a secondary level English teacher. In my professional life, many colleagues found it challenging to explain grammar rules and nuances to students, often relying on their practical usage rather than theoretical understanding. However, three colleagues and I, who had been taught by religious orders, were able to provide the necessary background and explanations, contributing to a more holistic grammar education.
Grammar, therefore, is not just a set of rules to be memorized but a living, breathing aspect of language that can be refined and relearned throughout one's life. Whether you are a student, a writer, or an editor, continuous learning and practice are key to mastering this vital component of language proficiency.