An Exploration of a Three-Dimensional Grammar Framework in Foreign Language Teaching: The Case of the English Passive Voice

Abstract

This article explores the dimensions of form, meaning and use from the perspective of the English passive voice in two ELT coursebooks. It is claimed that each dimension is aimed to fulfill a specific function in language teaching. Thus, to overlook any of them would be to deprive learners of an important aspect of language and so render them ill-equipped to communicate in the target language. An analysis of two ELT coursebooks revealed that although one of themprovides explicit reference to form and to some extent meaning and use, the other moves progressively away from form and focuses more on meaning and use. It is concluded that analyses of the same kind with other grammar structures and other ELT coursebooks should be conducted to raise more awareness of the relevance of these three dimensions of grammar in language teaching.