The Grammarian role combines several aspects:

1. Word of the Day - the concept serves not only to stretch one’s vocabulary but also to challenge speakers’ flexibility in incorporating something new into their speech. 2. Ah-counting - involves counting both sounds (ah, um) and filler words (including and, well, but, so, or you know). Any word or phrase can become a filler if used too often and without a specific purpose. 3. Grammar - a key role in promoting effective language usage during meetings providing feedback on grammar, vocabulary, and notable expressions to help members enhance their communication skills.

Guidelines:

Prior to the Meeting

• Select the Word of the Day. Choose a word to help members build their vocabularies that they can incorporate into everyday conversation, e. g. in business settings. The Word of the Day should not be obscure, too difficult to say out loud or hard to use in a context of speeches and other roles.
• You can align with the overall theme of the meeting (overall topic can be found in EasySpeak or by checking directly with the Toastmaster of the Day).
• Prepare a brief description of your duties for the benefit of guests.

Upon Arrival at the Meeting

• Write the Word of the Day on the whiteboard. Use a marker with contrasting color, such as black or blue, to ensure that text is visible to all participants. Write it in large letters, its definition, part of speech (i. e. verb, noun, adjective, or adverb), synonyms, and 2-3 examples of a its use in a sentence.
• Additionally, printing the text in a large font on paper can be better for individuals with weak vision. You can then display the paper on the whiteboard.

During the Meeting

• When prompted by the Toastmaster of the Day, come on the stage and explain your role. Introduce the Word of the Day and invite everyone to use it during the meeting; encourage others to knock on the table if they recognize that the word has been used.
• Throughout the meeting, listen to each speaker’s word usage.
  • Mark down correct and incorrect examples of using the Word of the Day.
  • Pay attention to unnecessary or repetitive words, sounds, or pauses.
  • Write down any particularly nice phrases and words used by members, and your reason for their selection. It is up to you if you chose to name the speakers directly.
  • Write down any awkward use or misuse of language – for example: incomplete sentences, sentences that change direction in mid-stream, incorrect grammar etc.
• When it is time for your report, come on the stage and deliver feedback on word of the day, and filler words for all speakers. You can be specific and mention examples, e. g. a sentence that was used containing a filler word & suggest how it could be rephrased. Report on what you thought was good and bad language usage and your reasons for selection. Offer the correct usage in every instance where there was a misuse, instead of only saying it was wrong.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact club officers. Thank you again for considering this role. We look forward to seeing you at the meeting!

PBT - Where Words Become Power.