missing Grub entry

[Glenn at home]

I just installed Debian kernel 2.6.8 something.
The other option was 2.4.27-speakup.
I was not given the option to edit the grub loader after installing, so I 
have booted up with Knoppix, and I am trying to figure out where to find the 
grub file to add something like:
text speakup_synth=txprt
Or should I add:
speakup speakup_synth=txprt
I might have to re-partition and install again if I cannot figure this out.
I am also having some difficulty accessing the various partitions with 
Knoppix.
I did su, but I often get the "permission denied" response.
Thanks in advance for any help here.
Glenn