One Little, Two Little,
Three Little Vikings . . . .
Kolln and Funk define
the functions of each part of speech according to the "slots"
each part fills within a sentence pattern. They divide these
sentence-patterns into ten types. Unfortunately, these types
are a bit difficult to memorize. To help you out, I've created
the following mnemonic aid--all based on the theme of Viking
attacks. Memorize these sentences by number, and we'll later
work through each one in class to show how it fits the numbered
pattern.
I. One viking is outside.
II. Two vikings are harmless.
III.
Three vikings are sailors.
IV. Four vikings seem fierce.
V. Five vikings become
raiders.
VI. Six chieftains chuckled.
VII.
Seven vikings slaughter the citizens.
VIII. Eight abbots deny
the vikings danegeld.
IX. Nine vikings find their
monastery flammable.
X. Ten vikings consider
the kingdom a conquest.