S/O on Diagramming question

[woolybear]

Why is it necessary to know how to diagram sentences? I admit I don't remember much about diagramming (if I learned it). I think I was or am a decent writer. I got through college just fine. So, what exactly is it for?

[Hedgehogs4]

One reason I feel it is really important to learn how to diagram is so that when one encounters a difficult passage / sentence that needs to be clearly understood, it can be analyzed for content, even if syntax is difficult.

 

If we are truly training our children using a classical model, we want them not to be intimidated by difficult primary sources when they reach the rhetoric stage, so diagramming is one tool we can give them to help them self-teach when it comes to that point.

[Amy Jo]

:bigear:

[UmMusa]

I'm no expert, but I find that teaching diagramming to my 3rd and 4th graders is, in the meantime, teaching them how the parts of speech work together. It helps keep things organized. I personally find it fun!

[Jamee]

One reason I feel it is really important to learn how to diagram is so that when one encounters a difficult passage / sentence that needs to be clearly understood, it can be analyzed for content, even if syntax is difficult.

 

If we are truly training our children using a classical model, we want them not to be intimidated by difficult primary sources when they reach the rhetoric stage, so diagramming is one tool we can give them to help them self-teach when it comes to that point.

 

:iagree:It really helps to break a sentence up into its main points more clearly. You can understand how the words are used and realize when you're using the correct word.

[justamouse]

if you are a visual learner, diagramming can provide that Eureka! moment. You see the whole language family tree and it clicks.

 

You don't *have* to do it, but for some students, it makes a huge difference in how they learn grammar which is why it used to be taught-it covered those visual learners.

[woolybear]

Giving me some things to think about. Thank you. Still :bigear:.

[Tracy]

According to SWB, it helps students identify weaknesses in their writing. I also read recently that it is extremely helpful if you learn another language, such as Latin, which doesn't depend on word order for understanding, as English does.