Episode Summary
For years, I heard the same advice you probably have — that teaching grammar in context is all we need to do. If students read good writing and write enough on their own, grammar will just click.
But if you’ve been in the classroom for more than five minutes, you know that isn’t what really happens. Students can write full pages, but when you ask them to find the subject and predicate, they freeze. That’s not because you’re doing something wrong. It’s because this “context only” approach leaves out the structure kids need to actually understand grammar.
In this episode, I’m sharing what I’ve learned the hard way: context matters, but it isn’t enough on its own. I walk through how I discovered this truth, what I see happening in classrooms everywhere, and what a balanced approach — one that combines explicit instruction with real-world writing — actually looks like.
In this episode, you will learn
- Why relying only on teaching grammar in context doesn’t build true understanding
- How skipping explicit instruction leaves gaps that show up year after year
- The system-wide reasons teachers and students lack confidence with grammar
- How explicit grammar lessons can exist right alongside authentic writing
- Why finding a balance between structure and creativity is what really makes grammar stick
The Heart of the Episode
I used to follow the “teach grammar through writing” philosophy completely. I spent years trying to fit grammar into quick ten-minute blocks because that’s what I was told to do. But the more I watched my students struggle — and later, even my own daughter — the more I realized that context alone wasn’t working.
That realization changed everything for me. I stopped feeling guilty for reteaching skills. I stopped thinking explicit grammar instruction was “old-fashioned.” And I started giving myself permission to teach the building blocks — the why, the how, and the practice — before expecting students to apply grammar naturally.
This episode is my honest reflection on what happens when we expect kids to learn grammar through exposure alone. It’s also a reminder that if you’re feeling frustrated, you’re not alone — and you’re definitely not failing.
Why Balance Matters
I’ll always believe that students should see grammar in real books and use it in their writing. But they also need the clarity that comes from direct instruction.
When I explicitly teach the rules, patterns, and examples first, and then move into application, everything clicks. Students start to see how grammar supports their writing instead of feeling like it’s a guessing game. They move from confusion to confidence — and that’s the whole goal.
It’s not about choosing between context or structure. It’s about blending both. Explicit teaching builds the foundation. Context lets them use it. Together, they create lasting understanding.
Teaching Grammar in Context Takeaways
- You are not failing if your students don’t “pick up” grammar through writing alone.
- Direct teaching isn’t outdated — it’s what provides clarity.
- Practice activities, anchor charts, and even worksheets aren’t bad; they’re tools for understanding.
- It’s okay to reteach a concept or slow down for mastery.
- Real learning happens when students can connect the grammar you teach to the writing they do every day.
Resources Mentioned in Episode
- 3rd Grade Grammar Gabs Units
- 4th Grade Grammar Gabs Units
Connect with Rachel
- Instagram: @uniquelyupper
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.uniquelyupper.com
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More about Commas in the Chaos
Commas in the Chaos is the podcast for upper elementary teachers who are juggling lesson plans, classroom chaos, and trying to remember what a preposition is — all before lunch. Whether grammar feels like your jam or your nemesis, this show is here to help you make it a little easier, a little clearer, and a lot more doable.
Hosted by Rachel, a former upper elementary teacher. Each week brings short, actionable episodes filled with ideas that actually work — from quick grammar routines and sentence strategies to mindset shifts and snack drawer survival tips. It’s all served with just enough sarcasm to get you through the week.
🎧 New episodes drop weekly.
