Content with the content of Grammar

John and Liz Soars, authors of Headway, state these reasons for prominence of grammar in their materials:

- It is the mechanism that generates the infinite number of sentences that we produce and receive.
- It is a tangible system, and can provide one element of a systematic approach to teaching a language.
- It develops students' cognitive awareness of the language. Language is rule-based, and conscious or sub-conscious knowledge of the rules is the key to 'generalizability' and creativity.
- It conforms to students' expectations of language learning, and meets an often-heard request for 'more grammar'.
- It will be of assistance to teachers in the planning of their lessons.

(Soars and Soars: Headway Upper Intermediate TB, page iv)

Of these items, I have to say I agree with the third. Whether we like it or not, knowing a simple rule sometimes allow for creative attempt with the language when they find themselves in a situation that requires a little of improvisation. Besides, as we get older (I include myself since I'm still a student) we feel more secure when we have some sort of safety net, in this case a rule. This safety, in turn, will provide a sense of confidence that will foster self-motivation and self-reliance.
I don't agree with the fourth item. I'm not sure that there are many cries for 'more grammar' coming from any student, but probably a suggestion to maintain a certain style with regards to the way in which grammar is taught.

Topic taken from Teaching and Learning in the Language Classroom by Tricia Hedge (Discussion topics and projects, ch.5, p.180, question 5)