BUHR/GRAD 03/15/2004 PREFACE. THIS book is designed to be, as its name implies, intermediate-a step between the elementary language lessons and the regular text-book on formal grammar. It combines language lessons with elementary grammar, using the former as the groundwork upon which it builds its superstructure of grammar. It follows either the textbook of language lessons or oral introductory lessons of a like character. The process of development of the subjects is so logical, and the questions asked are so pertinent, that the rules and definitions are really framed by the pupils long before they are concisely stated in the book. As a result, the memorizing of these definitions does not become burdenIt is only "what oft was thought but ne'er so well some. expressed." The book recognizes the value of composition as a means of teaching correct expression. A great variety of practice in this kind of work is given-exercises for reproduction, original compositions upon suggested topics, letter-writing, the conversion of poetry into prose, etc. A radical departure from the usual methods is made in the treatment of errors in the use of English. While the attention of the pupil is called to these errors, it is done in such a way as to bring prominently before the mind and the eye the correct form, rather than the form to be corrected. This principle of teaching by example and practice is observed throughout the book. |