A three word sentence can demonstrate a wealth of linguistic competence.
When this sentence is spontaneously generated by a child, as opposed to being merely an imitation of another childÅs speech, it demonstrates a wealth of linguistic knowledge.
In addition to including a precise word order, it demonstrates the childÅs competency with about 4 transformational rules (we will discuss these later).
We would not be aware of this if it were not for the discipline of Linguistics.
Hence, I recommend to all teachers of young children or children with language delay to include linguistic and grammar courses in their professional continuing education plan.
The following discussion of Syntax, therefore, is not intended to be in anyway a course in Grammar or Linguistics.
Our purpose here is only to underscore the complexity of the task facing the child who is involved in acquiring his/her first language.