Grammarian
Being the Grammarian at a Toastmasters meeting is a rewarding and educational experience, essential for enhancing the group’s overall communication skills. The key duties of the Grammarian include monitoring attendees’ use of language, counting filler words such as ‘um’ and ‘uh,’ and highlighting interesting words and phrases used throughout the meeting. Additionally, the Grammarian is responsible for introducing and promoting the ‘Word of the Day.’
Preparation for this role begins before the meeting. As the Grammarian, you should select a challenging yet accessible Word of the Day—one that encourages members to expand their vocabulary without being so obscure that it goes unused. Once you have chosen the word, make several A4 copies to place around the room and on the lectern. This ensures the word is visible and encourages speakers to incorporate it into their presentations.
At the beginning of the meeting, take a moment to explain your role as Grammarian. Introduce the Word of the Day, providing its definition and an example of how to use it in a sentence. This sets the stage for members to actively engage with the word throughout the meeting.
As the meeting unfolds, pay close attention to the speakers. Make notes of their grammar usage, creative vocabulary, and any filler words they might use. At the end of the meeting, you will report on these observations, highlighting attendees’ strengths and areas for improvement. Acknowledge those who effectively used the Word of the Day and commend any creative language choices.
In conclusion, being the Grammarian is not just about counting errors. It’s an opportunity to foster a culture of linguistic growth and appreciation within the Toastmasters community. Your contributions can inspire members to enhance their speaking abilities and embrace the beauty of language.
Here are some useful links:
Wade Paterson – Part of the Grammarian’s duties at a Toastmasters meeting is choosing a word of the day. In this video, I explain five ideas for how you can come up with a great word of the day at your next Toastmasters meeting.
Merriam-Webster – Word of the Day
https://www.merriam-webster.com/word-of-the-day
Grammarly – Commonly Confused Words
