A Composition Handbook

Merriss' and Griswold's Composition Handbook has been around for many years. It is a fine tool to use in composition classes in grades 8 through 12. The book gives rules and shows the student an example of a correct usage and often an incorrect one. The book is ideal for revising papers, which, as most English teachers know, is when much of the learning of correct writing occurs. The book takes a little while for an instructor to learn, because the various grammar rules are referred to by a system of numbers and letters. However, it is very thorough and straightforward. Students are not likely to get confused if they just follow the system. And it works! For more advanced students (and adults)I would recommend Pearlman's and Pearlman's "Guide to Rapid Revision."