This book explores how English grammar enables speakers and writers to represent the world, to interact with one another, and to create coherent messages.

Functional English Grammar provides second language teachers with a functional description of English grammar, in which grammar is viewed not as a set of rules but as a communicative resource. Each chapter includes a focus on areas of difficulty for second language learners, authentic examples, tasks that allow the reader to apply the concepts introduced, and discussion questions. A final chapter covers issues in the learning and teaching of grammar, and reviews methodological options for the second or foreign language classroom. Functional English Grammar assumes no previous study of linguistics or English grammar. It is suitable for self-study or as a textbook in teacher education programs.

Key features

• Presents a functional view of grammar, as a communicative resource rather than as a set of rules.
• Focuses specifically on areas of interest to teachers of English as a second language.
• Written in accessible, user-friendly language.