The Why Page is intended to help teachers and learners of English as a Second Language (ESL) find answers and discuss those many tricky things about the English language. English has a long history and has been influenced by different outside languages and cultures. This makes for some very interesting aspects of our grammar and vocabulary.

If you are learning a language you need to understand what is going on in that language; hopefully this site will help. For teachers our job is to convey understanding to our students. To convey understanding of the language you have to understand it yourself.

Realizing that everyone does not have the time or resources to research every question of what to use and why, I have set up this site to act as a clearinghouse for such information. Please feel free to contribute questions, answers, or input.

A few Rules:

1. This page is meant to be a helpful resource. It is not a forum for debate over which version of English is better, which country is better, or which flavor of chocolate is better. Stick to the language.

2. No Flaming! Be nice, it’s one simple rule. Comments should be limited to the topic being discussed and should never become personal attacks. If you don’t agree with something that has been written provide a counterpoint and back it up with research.

3. No criticizing other’s grammar, spelling, typos or other crap. Criticize their opinions if you want, but don’t resort to childish antics if you don’t like what they say. Submit an alternative if you feel someone else is incorrect, but keep it logical, friendly, on point, and respectful.

4. Finally, please provide examples or sources for anything you write if possible.

Thank you, I look forward to some good discussions.

–Drew