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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.

 

 

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