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.)

Provide guidelines for (1) using storytelling to empower students; (2) drawing on students'"family storyteller"; (3) bridging the gap between today's students and teachers; (4) using the television show "Seinfeld" to enhance vocabulary development; and (5) using quizzes to teach proofreading skills. Presents a poetic response…