Cram Study Guide for Grammar and Vocabulary

A collection of key terms and definitions from the cram study guide focusing on grammar and vocabulary.

Grammar

The combination of form, meaning, and use in language.

Grammaring

The skillful use of grammar in context, not just the knowledge of rules.

Descriptive Grammar

How people actually speak in contrast to prescriptive rules.

Prescriptive Grammar

The set of 'correct' rules governing language use.

Dynamic Grammar

Flexible rules used in natural communication.

Static Grammar

Memorized rules that are inflexible.

Implicit Knowledge

Unconscious understanding, such as natural speaking.

Explicit Knowledge

Conscious understanding of language rules.

PPP (Present–Practice–Produce)

Teaching approach where a teacher explains, followed by student practice and production.

Focus on Form

Teaching grammar attention during communication.

Consciousness-raising tasks

Activities designed to help students notice patterns in grammar.

Collocations

Words that commonly go together in a language.

Breadth of Vocabulary Knowledge

The number of words one knows.

Depth of Vocabulary Knowledge

How well one knows the meaning and use of words.

Receptive Vocabulary

Words that one can recognize and understand.

Productive Vocabulary

Words that one can actively use in speaking and writing.

Word Families

Related forms of a word, such as teach, teacher, and teaching.

General Service List (GSL)

A list of common words used in everyday language.

Academic Word List (AWL)

A list of words commonly used in academic settings.

Incremental Learning

Learning that occurs gradually over time.

Intentional Learning

Studying words directly for understanding.

Incidental Learning

Learning vocabulary through reading and listening.