Foreign language teachers have long been frustrated by learners' written errors. Traditional approaches to the problem--grammar instruction and error feedback--when used alone are not effective. Explicit instruction in proofreading provides a missing link. When instruction in proofreading is embedded in grammar instruction and when learners use…

This article describes two strategies for grounding grammar instruction in students' lifelong experience as users of language. Students develop their ability to analyze language in the proofreading activity. In both cases, students participate as active decision-makers in the process of analyzing conventions of language use. (Contains 1 note.)

Describes a 14-hour course designed to teach grammar to adults in the business world. Describes the kinds of students in the course and why they have not learned grammar previously. Presents 10 suggestions on how a similar course might be taught. (RS)

Describes a method of teaching basic writing to native and nonnative students that emphasizes a regression to the most basic elements of writing. Considers what writing content, rhetorical techniques, grammar exercises, and proofreading methods are most effective for the two groups. (TB)