A. Background
In learning English grammar, there is a great software for PC to help us learn it better. The software is [Grammar 3D], this software is simple but very powerful in learning English grammar. What does “powerful” mean? Check it out below:
B. Description
Grammar 3D is a Flash software designed to provide ESL/EFL students with comprehensive practice and explanation in English grammar. This software developed under the direction of Diane Larsen-Freeman, I think most of you know this name.
Varied activities makes this software can be used in a classroom, lab, or as part of a self-study system. The activities cover thirty four different English grammar topics/categories at four different levels, from high-beginner through advanced.
Each activity is linked to a grammar reference section called “Grammar Help”, which provides instruction, explanation, and examples of the form and use of the grammatical structure being addressed.
Feedback will appear in every wrong answer (hint) and in every completed activity (score).
C. Strengths
- The size is very small (10 MB) and portable
- Can be used anywhere (Classroom, lab, etc.)
- Providing explanation and also the practice
- Covering 34 different English grammar categories
- Covering 4 different level
- Providing images for illustration
- Providing feedback
- The text color is changed after click
D. Weakness
- The appearance is very simple
- Very short explanation
E. Learning and Teaching Process
- In the classroom/lab
1. Students read the grammar explanation in the software
2. Teacher gives additional explanation
4. Students answer the questions in the software
- Self-study
1. Read the explanation
2. Answer the questions
F. Conclusion
For grammar class, this software is very great since it covers thirty four different English grammar categories. It means that with only one software we can learn almost all of English grammar categories. The appearance is very simple but I think it’s no problem. The explanation is very short, so not all of the students will understand at once. So, this is the teacher’s job to give them more explanation.
Another weakness of this software is when it is implemented in a classroom, the students are able to cheat like they retry to answer all of the questions after getting score. But the teacher can anticipate this by giving them limited time, so they will not have enough time to retry.
The last, I recommend this software as one of media to learn English grammar not only for self-study, but also for classroom/lab study.
To get this software, you can download it here.