Which of the following techniques is associated with teaching syntax through games?

Using Cuisenaire rods as a technique for teaching syntax through games is effective because these colored rods provide a visual and hands-on tool for learners to manipulate and construct sentences. This method allows students to physically arrange phrases and see the relationships between different parts of a sentence, thus promoting an understanding of sentence structure and syntax in an interactive way.

In this context, the rods can be used to represent different grammatical elements, helping students visualize how various sentence components fit together. The playful aspect of using these rods in games encourages engagement and retention of the grammatical concepts being taught.

Other techniques like expanding vocabulary and word association focus more on increasing word meanings and relationships rather than specifically targeting the structure of sentences. Phonemic awareness, while crucial for developing reading skills, pertains to the sounds in words rather than their syntax. Therefore, Cuisenaire rods uniquely combine gameplay with a focus on understanding the formation and structure of sentences, making it the most appropriate choice.