Understanding Grammar: Prescriptivism vs Descriptivism

What is the primary function of grammar in linguistics?

• To limit the flexibility of language

• To set patterns for constructing phrases or clauses

• To dictate the correct use of language

• To standardize spoken language only

Which language structure order is typical in English?

• Subject, Object, Verb

• Object, Verb, Subject

• Verb, Subject, Object

• Subject, Verb, Object

Tags

CCSS.L.3.1E

CCSS.L.4.1B

CCSS.L.5.1.B-D

CCSS.L.5.1C

CCSS.L.5.1D

What do prescriptivists believe about language rules?

• They are unnecessary

• They should prioritize spoken language

• They should evolve with society

• They should be consistent

Why was written language standardized historically?

• To limit the influence of the people in power

• To facilitate broader communication

• To simplify linguistic studies

• To reduce the number of languages

How does speech differ from writing, according to linguists?

• Speech has its own patterns separate from writing

• Speech and writing are essentially the same

• Speech is less important than writing

• Writing adapts faster than speech

What is a key aspect of descriptivism?

• Promoting standardized language forms

• Focusing solely on written language

• Dictating how language should be used

• Describing and understanding actual language use

How do non-native speakers benefit from prescriptivism?

• It provides common patterns for easier understanding

• It makes communication more challenging

• It restricts their ability to learn new languages

• It discourages them from using the language

What insight does descriptivism offer?

• The superiority of written language over spoken language

• The correct rules of language

• How our minds work and structure our world view

• The importance of maintaining language purity

What is the ultimate view of grammar according to the video?

• A set of strict rules to be followed

• A dynamic set of habits constantly being renegotiated

• A tool to enforce social hierarchies

• An unchanging structure across all languages

Who contributes to the fabric of language, as mentioned in the video?

• Speakers, listeners, writers, readers, and both prescriptivists and descriptivists

• Only linguists and scholars

• Only prescriptivists and descriptivists

• Only native speakers of a language