Grammarian

The Grammarian has 3 main responsiblities:

 1. Count the number of “ums” “ahs” “you knows” etc. for each speaker and report the count at the end of the meeting.

 2. Comment on errors in grammar and compliment speakers on good use of language 

 3. Bring a “word of the day”

The Grammarian introduces their role in a 1-2 minute speech at the start of the meeting.

Explain the 3 responsibilities, particularly for the benefit of new members or guests. Explain the word of the day (what does it mean? Is it a noun, a verb or both?) and display a copy at the podium and another across the way near the timekeeper's station. A good way to do this is to print the word on a sheet ofpaper folded in half lengthwise.

During the meeting listen carefully to each person and keep a tally on a piece of paper of all their ums and ahs and grammar errors in one column and a count of their uses of word of the day or good language in another column. Note details to include in the grammarian’s report eg was the person’s main problem ums, ahs or you knows? When did they tend to say um or ah? What were their grammatical errors?

What good use of language impressed you?

At the end of the meeting give a 1-2 minute report on each person covering: the count of ums, ahs etc, the number of times the word of the day was used, any errors in grammar, any good use of language. Charge 10 cents for each um, ah or grammatical error and award a 10 cent credit for each use of the word of the day or good language. Maximum charge is one dollar. We don’t charge guests.

And finally, as the Grammarian try to set a good example by  using good grammar and avoiding ums and ahs even though this is the one time when you won’t be charged for them.

Tips on selecting the word of the day:

Choose a word that is interesting, unusual and/ or in keeping with the theme of the meeting. Consider words that might expand one’s vocabulary. Words with positive energy (eg Triumphant) are good. Try to pick a word that people can use in their speeches but don’t make it too easy - give them a bit of a challenge.