In the research conducted by Truscott and Hsu (2008), the authors demonstrate that although rewriting corrected drafts results in lower grammar error rates on the rewritten texts, this effect does not carry over to a subsequent new writing task. The authors conclude that the result indicates that there may have been no language improvement from…

Discusses grammatical arthritis (an internal buildup of rules that hinders writing flexibility); four new "rules" (concerning "data is,""none are,""hopefully," and the restrictive "which"); attitudes toward English grammar; how to be a helpful editor; and where to learn about grammar. (SR)

Discusses problems in a piece of technical writing which is very well written but has extra words and overly long sentences. (SR)

Business professionals and instructors often view writing skills as one of the most important qualifications that employees should possess. However, many business employees, including recent college graduates, have serious writing deficiencies, especially in their ability to use standard English. As a result, American businesses spend billions of…

Argues that Grammatik 5 for Windows software presents users with feedback that is often wrong, frequently confusing, and sometimes irrelevant. Expresses grave concerns about it both as a teaching tool and as a subtle means of propagating a political perspective. (SR)

Notes that, contrary to what is widely thought to be true, research studies exist which lend clear-cut support to the teaching of grammar as a means of improving writing. Describes one such study. Suggests that the place of instruction in grammar in the curriculum must be reconsidered. (RS)

Argues that the best approach for technical editors is to abandon the language cops' billy club, listen to what the authors want to say, and give those authors friendly expertise, without rigid prescription or blanket condemnation. (SR)

Discusses the use of spell checking and grammar checking software by high school journalists. Argues that, though they are useful, they are far from foolproof and are used best by students who have been taught the basics of spelling, editing, and grammatical writing. (SR)

Considers the teaching of grammar and its importance in the writing classroom. Examines what grammar is; why writing instruction has moved away from grammar; differing opinions regarding grammar and writing instruction; and grammar's place in the writing classroom of the new century. Argues that grammar must be applied to students' own writing.…

Good writing is good sentences. It is a simple truth that many in the business of teaching writing have strayed from. Good writing is a first sentence that makes a reader want to read the second sentence, a second sentence that makes a reader want to read the third, and so on. Erika Lindemann suggests that certain types of sentence instruction can…

Schools stopped teaching any grammatical system some time ago, as they probably should have. But the schools also, at the same time, stopped teaching grammatical terminology, a mistake which has had lasting consequences. Students need to be told what "infinitive,""preposition,""case," and "predicate…

Argues that grammar instruction is important and should begin early. Lists rules for using the comma, colon, and semi-colon. Notes 10 tips for top-notch writing. Notes grammatical areas often troublesome to students. Includes a short quiz. (SR)

Argues that as long as classroom grammar is couched in vague or technical terms, it is not "basic" enough to help students with genuine literacy problems. Discusses how the grammar of students' speech can be sufficient for students' writing when properly brought to their conscious attention. (HTH)

Discusses teaching grammar to high school journalistic writing or sophomore honors English students. Discusses grammar testing and the need some colleges feel for required language courses. Presents four teaching ideas for high school teachers to help their students achieve in writing. (RS)

Presents grammatical and stylistic guidelines for the improvement of writing in student publications. Offers examples of correct and incorrect usage, and suggests replacements for pretentious, wordy, meaningless, imprecise, and jargon-filled prose. (AYC)