Foundations of Grammar: Beyond Standardized American English

This introductory textbook on the structure of English gives a comprehensive, descriptive grammar of contemporary standardized and non-standardized American English dialects. The book challenges conventional perspectives and offers an exploration of American English grammars. The authors include Chicano English, African American English, Southern American English, Appalachian English and other dialects to show students that all varieties of English should be represented and recognised. They also delve into the historical and social contexts of these dialects, shedding light on how they’ve been perceived over time.

Grammatical structures and features are introduced and illustrated through examples that demonstrate each of the dialect features including signage, text from published sources, snippets from actual conversations as well as dialogue from print, film, and television. The numerous examples show how different dialects construct sentences, offering a comprehensive view of linguistic diversity and illuminating the intricacies of these grammars, dispelling myths and prompting critical thinking. The authors present these data samples and lead the reader through guiding questions and comments before expanding on the linguistic terms, import, theories, and applications. Recommended readings and ideas for student projects are provided in key chapters, and a companion website offers resources for instructors.

Providing ample practice and iterative exercises, as well as suggestions for real-world application, Foundations of Grammar promotes linguistic equality and ensures students have an increased awareness and appreciation for a variety of dialects and languages. This groundbreaking exploration of American English dialects, particularly those that have been stigmatized in the past, challenges prevailing myths about language and invites readers to think critically about their own English.

Trini Stickle is Associate Professor of English at Western Kentucky University, USA.
Veronika Drake is Professor of English at Saginaw Valley State University, USA.