Class,
       Not only am I appalled at examples of fundamental spelling errors to be found on this forum, certain contributors seem to have not an inkling of the use of capitals, proper nouns, full stops and commas, sentence construction and paragraphs. Now I have no wish to castigate these individuals since it could be the result of lax instruction on the part of their teachers, not bringing to the students attention the errors of their ways. It may be that those charged with teaching our youngsters are not best fitted to the post since their own knowledge of written English leaves much to be desired. Is it possible there is a school of thought in some of our educational establishments that considers punctuation and spelling irrelevant? Do they justify this by asserting that "texting" is the way forward?

       On the other hand the student also must be held to account as well as the family showing interest in his or her progress. We are still surrounded by excellent examples of the written word in books, newspapers and magazines and they are all at our disposal, free, gratis and for nothing. Surely if we can read then we can see how it`s done and learn by example.

       So let us help those, where we can, with our little knowledge by tactfully advising them of their mistakes and of how to correct them. Their futures and fortunes could enhanced by an ability to understand and communicate when they are subject to the maelstrom of adult life and it`s attendant problems.   

And remember the school motto. "COULD DO BETTER"

Dr.Quelch. (VD&Scar., BSA& Clips)