A practical grammar of the English language

Front matter

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HA R VEY’S LANG UA GE CO URSE

Preface

This treatise is a revision of the author’s Practical Grammar, first published ten years ago. In the work of revision, as in the preparation of the original treatise, the ever-recurring wants and requirements of the class-room have been kept constantly in view. Some matter of minor importance has been omitted to make room for a more extended as well as more satisfactory treatment of several essential subjects; a few definitions have been modified, and, it is believed, improved in expression and accuracy; the number of technical terms to be used in parsing and analysis has been diminished; but the distinguishing features of the treatise have been preserved, and its general plan has not been changed in any important particular. Nothing has been omitted that, in the judgment of the author, ought to be retained, and nothing has been added that did not seem to be essential to completeness or desirable as an aid to the student.

Accuracy and facility in the use of language, both spoken and written, are the chief ends to be secured by the study of grammar. To secure these ends, a thorough acquaintance with the elements, forms, structure, and laws of our mother tongue, is indispensable; and a practical knowledge of these can be acquired only by patient, persistent exercise in the analysis and synthesis of. syllables, words, and sentences. The plan of this treatise is in strict accordance with this educational doctrine. The author has endeavored to present

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the subject in a simple, concise, and perspicuous manner, and to furnish such “models" for necessary routine work as the student may use to the best advantage. He would call special attention to these “models," and suggest that more attention be paid to those relating to synthesis than most teachers have heretofore thought advisable. He has purposely avoided the discussion of mere theories; preferring, rather, a plain, didactic statement or clear indication of his own views, especially on those points that annoy and perplex both pupil and teacher. Experience has taught him that such discussions serve only to confuse and discourage the beginner, and are of questionable utility to the advanced student. Neither the erudition of the teacher nor the exhaustive completeness of the text-book used, can compensate for the lack of intelligent, systematic drill in the class-room.

The acknowledgments of the author are due for many valuable criticisms and suggestions, received from a large number of thoughtful, earnest teachers and superintendents. For these highly-esteemed favors he tenders his grateful thanks. His correspondents will see that most of their advice has been heeded.

Actuated by a desire to render the labor of the class-room more pleasant and effective, by furnishing an attractive means for instruction in a useful branch of study, the author ventures the hope that this revision will commend itself to the favorable notice and consideration of his fellow-teachers.

October, 1878.

Contents

ORTHOGRAPHY.

PAGE.

Elementary Sounds, .