Bryson Questions

Before you read

3  It seems with technology has come a new language so to speak that is not necessarily grammatically correct. With the age of texting  and cell phones has come a whole new language in it self with the use of abbreviations to communicate and you don't even have to use words you can use whats called emoticons which are just pictures to have a conversation. It seems that we do not think about being grammatically correct as long as we can get our point across. Communication is literally at our finger tips. In some ways it affects how I understand what people are saying due to the fact that the younger generation today is much more computer and smart phone experienced then I am. However being exposed to it daily I can't help but learn the texting language. A couple of examples of "new" words are (BTW) by the way and (TNX) thanks, or (UGH) means disgusted.

Questions for Discussion

1  Bryson is challenging the construct of grammar. He argues that their are all of these rules in the English language and no one really is appointed to over sea them, therefore who really sets these rules that we have been taught. He feels that no one does and their is really nothing to back up these so called rules.An example sentences should not end with a preposition.

3 Prescriptive means to prescribe how language should be used and descriptive means to describe how it is used without taking a position.I feel I have encountered more of the prescriptive grammar instruction. Basically this is how you are supposed to use grammar and their are no exceptions to the rules of grammar.

Applying and Exploring Ideas

1  Bryson says English changes over time due to meanings of words change due to common usage. He expresses that it is a natural process that has gone on for many years. His opinion is that usage of words will push new meanings into circulation no matter how many people try to stop it. Bryson very much condones this change and he feels to stand in it's way would be arrogant.