From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis

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Grammar can be tough to teach. I've heard some teachers say that it can't be fun. On the contrary, my remarkable teacher friend! Patty McGee is just a joy. She finds a way to make grammar fun and even suggests grammar manipulatives.

I had a very exciting realization when I graduated from high school. Literally. I would never have to diagram a sentence again. (It was the only thing Mrs. Caldwell taught I didn't like, sorry Mrs. Caldwell!)

But as Patty McGee, author of Not Your Granny's Grammar, teaches us how we can make grammar instruction fun. It can be playful and effective. You don’t need expensive tools—just curiosity and creativity. Get ready to have some fun with grammar! (I can't really believe I said that!)

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Solution Tree: Podcast sponsor

For over 25 years, Solution Tree has partnered with schools and districts to deliver research-driven professional development that helps teachers turn their passion into real progress for their students. See the results they’ve helped schools achieve at SolutionTree.com/10MinuteTeacher.

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✨ Key Takeaways

🤔 How can we teach grammar without shame or frustration?

Patty discusses how traditional grammar instruction often brings shame. Her method replaces shame with curiosity and creativity, starting with sentence play—not memorization.

“We use grammar to shape our words and writing—like a sculptor uses a chisel.” – Patty McGee

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🧱 What grammar strategies help students build better sentences?

Forget rote worksheets. Patty shares her “sentences from a sentence” approach and even uses grammar manipulatives. These allow students to physically rearrange words, debate grammar choices, and record their own sentence creations.

“Manipulating language this way is like math—it sparks engagement and deeper understanding.” – Patty McGee

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🧩 Can grammar actually be fun?

Yes! Patty shares an unforgettable story of how a student used grammar as he repeated an announcement from the fun office. He was having fun with grammar! These strategies are effective because they invite play, encourage debate, and transform grammar into a collaborative puzzle.

“Play is different than games—there are no winners or losers, just joyful learning.” – Patty McGee

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🤝 Why relationships matter when teaching grammar

Using Hattie’s research, Patty emphasizes how play builds relationships, strengthens SEL, and