The Role of the Grammarian

There are two primary responsibilities of the Grammarian role:

1.      Introduce a new word to the group.

2.      At the end of the meeting, give a brief summary on the usage of Grammar used throughout the meeting.

Prior the meeting:

Select a “Word of the Day”. If possible, relating to the theme of the meeting. The goal is to select a word that will increase our vocabulary. We should choose a word that goes beyond the way we usually express ourselves, but also is easily incorporated into everyday speech (making adjectives and adverbs preferable).

• On a separate handout sheet to be replicated and passed to all present at the meeting, write the word, a definition, and use it in a sentence.
• During the meeting introduce the word of the day, explaining it, using it in a sentence, and encouraging participants to use it when they speak that day.
• Note how many times the word is used throughout the meeting.

During the meeting:

• Listen carefully to how speakers use English in their presentations.
• Make note of “killer fillers” —ums, ers, uhs, double words, lip smacks, etc.
• Make note of other incorrect usages of the language such as incorrect grammar, run-on sentences, incomplete sentences, sentences that change direction in midstream, malapropisms (a similar-sounding word used for the word actually intended. Ex. A rolling stone gathers no moths), etc.
• Make note of anyone who uses the “Word of the Day” while speaking.

As with other roles, when introduced, the Grammarian should explain his/her role.

At the end of meeting:

The Grammarian will be called upon to give a brief report on the following:

• The number of incorrect usages of the English language. Try to offer the correct usage in every instance where there was a misuse, instead of only explaining what was wrong.
• The number of times the “Word of the Day”, or its derivative, was used.
• Identify any creative language that was used throughout the meeting—the goal is to encourage extensive vocabulary!

 

Special thanks to Cathey Armillas of Mentors of Focus Toastmasters for this article