English grammar – like it or not! A study of the attitudes towards the importance of teaching and learning English grammar in Latvia and Sweden

Abstract

Abstract The intention of this study has been to find out the attitude towards the importance of English grammar knowledge. The answer to this question was sought on three levels – in research theories, in the National Syllabi as well as by gathering information from students and teachers. Since the author of this essay originates from Latvia and aims to practice teaching there the attitude towards the importance of English grammar has been studied in the National Syllabi for both Sweden and Latvia as well as in the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). The methods used in this study are questionnaire and interview. It was found that the attitude towards the importance of English grammar is positive in research and in teachers’ and students’ opinion. The attitude expressed in the national documents differs between countries.