July 14, 2025

Should ESL Teachers Teach Grammar in Elementary School?

As ESL teachers, we’ve all heard the ongoing debate: Should we be teaching grammar to English language learners (ELLs) in elementary school?

It’s a valid question—and one that doesn’t have a simple yes or no answer. But there are some key points worth considering when planning effective ESL lessons for young learners.

Why Grammar Still Matters

I feel grammar is the foundation that supports how a language works, and this is especially true for English. It gives structure to our words and helps us organize our thoughts in a way that others can understand.

For elementary English Language Learners (ELLs), learning how to use grammar correctly is an essential part of developing strong communication skills. It can be the difference between being able to speak or write with confidence—or feeling unsure and misunderstood.

When young learners have a good grasp of grammar, they’re better able to share their ideas clearly, both in speaking and in writing. It also helps them understand what they read and hear more easily.

Without basic grammar knowledge, students might struggle to form complete sentences, choose the right verb tense, or make their meaning clear. This can lead to frustration or confusion for both the student and the listener.

As teachers we can help students build a solid grammar foundation, we give them tools to express themselves more accurately and confidently. In turn, this allows them to participate more fully in the classroom, connect with peers, and grow in their overall language fluency.

Beyond Grammar: Teaching the Whole Language

At the same time, teaching English goes far beyond just grammar drills. Real fluency comes from a broader language experience. To truly support your students, ESL instruction at the elementary level should also include:

Culture and customs
Idiomatic expressions
Conversational English and slang
Children’s literature
Everyday speaking and listening practice

Focusing only on grammar in isolation won’t help students navigate real-world situations or conversations. What we want is for our students to feel confident using English in authentic, meaningful ways.

A Balanced Approach: Accuracy and Fluenc

So how do we balance it all? Teaching grammar to elementary ELLs should be done with intention—and it should be integrated into a wider, more engaging language experience.

One effective way to do this is by combining instruction with interactive activities that build fluency and confidence. Some favorite ESL strategies for young learners include:

ESL songs and chants to reinforce sentence structure and rhythm
Games like charades, board games, or relays to make practice fun
Storytelling and role-play, which allow students to use grammar in context
Videos and visuals to provide real-life language models
Gentle correction and pronunciation support to help with clarity without discouraging participation

These approaches help students internalize grammar while developing the confidence to speak and write freely.

What It Means to Teach ESL in Elementary School

I feel that at its core, teaching ESL to elementary students is about more than language—it’s about connection. We’re not just teaching grammar rules; we’re helping students understand a new culture, express their ideas, and build relationships.

A well-rounded ESL program balances grammar instruction with meaningful practice in communication.

When we, as ESL teachers, prioritize both accuracy and fluency, we empower our students to become not just rule-followers, but real-world communicators. And that’s a gift that will serve them well—not just in school, but for years to come.