Grammar

Grammar supports the development of children’s speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. Having a good knowledge and use of grammar allows children to communicate their ideas and feelings and helps them choose the right language for any situation.

By the end of primary school, children will be expected to understand and be able to use all the grammar and punctuation set out in the National Curriculum. Some grammar words, like fronted adverbials and blending, can seem a bit daunting, but children will learn to use these types of words automatically from their reading and speaking. Once the children reach Key Stage One, they will learn how to recognise some of the types of grammar that are used within speaking, reading and writing

There are a variety of simple things you can do at home to support your child’s developing grammar and punctuation skills.

1. Read to your child

While children do learn about language from speaking and listening, the type of language we use in writing is often different from that in speech. Reading regularly to your child, especially books that they cannot yet read independently, is a great way of developing their vocabulary and their understanding of how language works.

2. Encourage your child to read

Making time to hear your child read isn’t just good for their reading. Through frequently seeing words in print, they will have the opportunity to see how the punctuation and grammar are used to share meaning.

When you read, sometimes look at the punctuation and talk about what it is telling the reader to do. For example, you could show your child how a question mark tells you to raise your voice at the end of the sentence to indicate a question being asked.

Explore how you can show the ‘feeling’ behind an exclamation mark. Are the characters shouting? Has something unexpected happened? Has something gone wrong?

3. Play games

Playing games can help children to learn about grammar and punctuation in an enjoyable way. Watch grammar expert Charlotte Raby’s videos below to see some quick and easy games in action and explore top tips.

The videos below provide you with information about the teaching of grammar, along with some top tips for supporting your child.