Updated and revised with more examples and expanded discussions, this second edition continues the aim of providing teachers with a solid understanding of the use and function of grammatical structures in American English. The book avoids jargon and presents essential grammatical structures clearly and concisely. Dr. DeCapua approaches grammar from a descriptive rather than a prescriptive standpoint, discussing differences between formal and informal language, and spoken and written English. The text draws examples from a wide variety of authentic materials to illustrate grammatical concepts. The many activities throughout the book engage users in exploring the different elements of grammar and in considering how these elements work together to form meaning. Users are encouraged to tap into their own, often subconscious, knowledge of grammar to consciously apply their knowledge to their own varied teaching settings. The text also emphasizes the importance of understanding grammar from the perspective of English language learners, an approach that allows teachers to better appreciate the difficulties these learners face. Specific areas of difficulties for learners of English are highlighted throughout.

Chapter 1 What Is Grammar?.- Chapter 2 Morphology: Words and Their Parts.- Chapter 3 The Noun Phrase.- Chapter 4 Adjectives and Adverbs.- Chapter 5 Overview of Verbs and Verb Phrases: The Heart of the Sentence.- Chapter 6 Time, Tense, and Aspect of Verbs.- Chapter 7 Modal Auxiliary Verbs and Related Structures.- Chapter 8 Basic Sentence Patterns and Major Variations.- Chapter 9 Compound Sentences and Introduction to Complex Sentences: Adverbial Clauses.- Chapter 10 Complex Sentences Continued: Relative Clauses.- Chapter 11 Complex Sentences Continued: Noun Clauses.- Chapter 12 Verbal Constructions.- Glossary.- Appendices.