We all ‘know’ grammar: we use it instinctively every time we speak or write. But from the 1970s, grammar was no longer formally taught in most Australian schools; as a result, many people struggle to understand how the language works. For example, they can’t explain why one piece of writing reads well and another doesn’t, and they find this frustrating.

Don’t be daunted by those mysterious terms ‘subject’, ‘object’, ‘verb’, ‘active/passive voice’, and ‘semi-colon’. The concepts are easy to grasp when presented through real-life examples, and you will gain a powerful tool for organising your words and sentences.

A knowledge of grammar (which includes punctuation) can help you manage the mechanics and nuances of writing. So, whether you write creatively or as part of a business or technical role, understanding the basics of grammar will give you confidence as a writer.

This one-day workshop with expert Susan McKerihan introduces the fundamental elements of grammar and explains how they work in real life.

Grammar Essentials covers these grammatical features and principles:

• the eight parts of speech and their functions
• phrases, clauses and sentences
• verbs, including tense, mood, voice, participles, auxiliaries
• punctuation

We will also examine the most common areas of difficulty, and the language ‘myths’ that are often (wrongly) presented as non-negotiable rules.

Through discussion and written exercises, you will gain confidence in your ability to write and to make choices in language and style. And there’s a side benefit for anyone who’s trying to learn a foreign language!

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Expected Learning Outcomes

1. An understanding of the basic terms and concepts of English grammar.
2. The ability to recognise and fix the most common grammatical mistakes.
3. Greater confidence when writing, through knowing how to manage the tools that create meaning in our language.

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Participant Requirements

Pen and paper or preferred device for writing. Please ensure your device is charged.