Podcast on Syntax by Mrs. Weissgerber

Introduction

• Syntax: Arrangement of words in a sentence.
• Purpose: Speakers/authors use syntax choices to serve a purpose.
• Coined in the age of reason (circa 1600).
• Related to tactics, architecture, technology.
• Connotation: Arrangement of words is an art form.

Sentence Structure

• Simple Sentence (Independent Clause):
  • Complete meaning without additional info.
  • Components: Subject, verb, direct object.
  • Represents a complete thought.
• Clauses:
  • Contain a subject, verb, and objects/complements/modifiers.
• Phrases:
  • Lack a subject, verb, or both; provide additional details.
• Compound Sentences:
  • More than one independent clause, no dependent clauses.
• Complex Sentences:
  • Combines independent and dependent clauses.

Techniques in Syntax

• Great writers vary sentence types and lengths for emphasis.
• Verbal Pacing and Focus:
  • Rule: Must have a subject and verb, but word order offers flexibility.
  • Sentence Length:
    • Short sentences can emphasize key ideas.
  • Sentence Focus:
    • Placement of subject and verb affects emphasis (periodic vs. loose sentences).

Repetition

• Purpose: Emphasizes important messages.
• Examples: Anxiety in characters or driving important points home.

Other Syntactical Arrangements

• Mirroring Content:
  • Sentence structure can reflect content if carefully arranged.
• Trinities:
  • Three parallel groups of words create rhythm or support a point.

Punctuation

• Semicolon:
  • Connects closely related independent clauses, providing parallel structure.
• Colon:
  • Directs focus to following words; used in formal statements or lists.
• Dash:
  • Indicates a change in thought, adds urgency, and sets off summaries.

Conclusion

• Why Syntax Matters:
  • Reveals writer's attitude or tone through diction, details, imagery, and arrangement.
  • Understanding rhetoric improves communication skills and AP Language test scores.