Being grammarian is truly an exercise in expanding your listening skills. Your main responsibilities are:

• Introduce new words to members

• Comment on the use of English during the course of the meeting.

PRIOR TO THE MEETING

_ Select a “Word of the Day” if this is done in your Club. It should be a word that will help members increase their vocabulary–a word that can be incorporated easily into everyday conversation but is different from the way people usually express themselves. An adjective or adverb is suggested since they are more adaptable than a noun or verb, but feel free to select your own special word. For Word-Of-The-Day, ideas, click here.

_Print your word, its part of speech (adjective, adverb, noun, etc.), and a brief definition. Prepare a sentence showing how the word is used.

_Prepare a brief explanation of the duties of the grammarian for the benefit of the guests.

PRINTING TIPS:

• When printing your Word-Of-The-Day, setup your page configuration to "Landscape" (sideways)

• Select a font size large enough to be seen from the back of the room,
  a) A 100 Point Font works well for the word
  b) A 40 point font is usually large enough to read the definition

• Print two copies (for placement in front and back of room)

• If you need assistance with the layout or printing of your word, contact any of the Club Officers and they will gladly help.

UPON ARRIVAL AT THE MEETING

_ Place your visual aid at the front of the room where it can be seen by all.

_ Get a pen and a blank copy of the grammarian’s log from the Sergeant-at-Arms or download one here and bring it to the meeting with you.

DURING THE MEETING

_ When introduced prior to table topics, announce the “Word of the Day,” state its part of speech, define it, use it in a sentence, and ask that anyone speaking during any part of the meeting use it.

_ Briefly explain the role of the grammarian and that there will be a one dollar fine for any speaker that does NOT use the Word of the Day when called upon to speak.  VISITORS and Members giving their ICE BREAKER SPEECH will NOT be fined.

_ Throughout the meeting, listen to everyone’s word usage. Write down any awkward use or misuse of the language (incomplete sentences, sentences that change direction in midstream, incorrect grammar, malapropisms, etc.) with a note of who erred. Write down who used the “Word of the Day” (or a derivative of it) and note those who used it correctly or incorrectly.

_ When called on by the general evaluator during the evaluation segment, stand by your chair and give your report. Try to offer the correct usage in every instance where there was misuse instead of only explaining what was wrong. Report on creative language usage and announce who used the “Word of the Day” (or a derivative of it) correctly or incorrectly.

AFTER THE MEETING

_ Leave your completed report with the Treasurer or Club President if the Treasurer is not present.