Beginning Syntax
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Book Overview
This is an elementary introduction to syntactic analysis. Assuming no prior knowledge of the subject whatsoever, it is intended for students who are encountering such analysis for the first time. For those embarking on a longer term study of syntax, this will be a valuable and quickly assimilated foundation course. For students who will need to use syntax as a basic descriptive tool - such as trainee teachers, speech therapists or students of literacy style - the book provides a framework for their analysis and practice in its use.
The book begins by looking at the use of generalizations in describing sentence structure and the basis for word categories. It then moves through increasingly more complex constructions giving students plenty of opportunity by way of practical exercises to understand the basis of each analysis before moving further. The aim of the book is not to explore complex issues of argumentation. Its emphasis is on practical "hands on" analysis.
The book begins by looking at the use of generalizations in describing sentence structure and the basis for word categories. It then moves through increasingly more complex constructions giving students plenty of opportunity by way of practical exercises to understand the basis of each analysis before moving further. The aim of the book is not to explore complex issues of argumentation. Its emphasis is on practical "hands on" analysis.
Format:Paperback
Language:English
ISBN:0631188274
ISBN13:9780631188261
Release Date:August 1993
Publisher:Wiley-Blackwell
Length:224 Pages
Weight:0.77 lbs.
Dimensions:0.6" x 5.9" x 9.0"
Customer Reviews
2 ratings
Good - but not as an introduction to syntax
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 21 years ago
First off, this book is a great introduction to *English* syntax. It takes you through the various constituent categories and lists basic rules for those categories. The problem is the title is "Beginning Syntax" not "Beginning English Syntax." Those looking for an introduction to the study of syntax or on modern theories of syntax should look elsewhere. So, if you want to learn more on how the English language works, by all means read this book. But if you are looking for something more general or more appropriate to studying syntactics of other languages, this book doesn't cut it. The publishers really need to change the title on this one.
Books like this don't "comma" round very often
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 24 years ago
In a very short book (many of the pages are actually answer keys to exercises found within the text), Linda Thomas offers an easy-to-understand approach to basic English grammar. This book is excellent if you have a short attention-span because the author is very thorough and simple with her explanations. However, this also becomes a fault. Often, she is too simple and makes generalizations that prove to be faults in her logical approach to language. Another problem with the book is that you sometimes think that she really, really wants to be a philosopher, and really, really enjoys hearing herself be logical. Despite these faults, the book is a good intro guide to English syntax, provided the student has an attentive instructor supplementing the text.
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