So I have a question for you all...
So I was sitting here thinking...Why do schools always have such extrodinary expectations when it comes to writing essays and the what nots for english class?
cuz seriously, i have to read this short story for english and do a HUGEE report on it, most of due by the end of next week. theres like, 50 note cards, 6-8 pages, and a power point. while im not too stressed cuz i lovee english a lot of my peers are. most of my classmates had practice at it last year, but my english teacher (whom i absolutely LOVEE!) was really easy and didn't make us do all that stuff, so it's going to be a little harder for me. but then again im smart in english, so i should do well. but my teacher this year grades a little harder, so was i as prepared for it as my classmates? should all teachers be the same, not some easier? because then not all are as prepared as others. i guess im just lucky im good at english.
Jake · November 5, 2007 9:43 PM
I think high schools stress the quantitative (page output) rather than the qualitative (teaching students how to write). Students should learn about the nature of argumentative essays, the use of evidence and analysis, strong opening and closing paragraphs, and the THESIS before having to write long papers; without a good basis in such knowledge, students won't be able to write long papers without losing focus and drifting into meaninglessness. Shorter assignments - up to four page papers - are much more useful for high school.
My question for you, Amanda Knudson, is this: Why do you continue to post using poor punctuation, the IM dictionary, lack of capitalization, bad grammar, and poor organization of your thoughts? You say you "lovee" English; you don't seem to respect it. And you're supposed to represent the York Daily Record!
I say this harshly because every month or so since the Teen Takeover website started, some teen takeover staff member puts up a post like you just did. Every time that has happened, I've complained, Katy has complained, readers have complained, and now Dylan has been complaining as well. I'll say what I've always said: Poor style reflects poorly on your argument. I think your post brings up a good point - that high schools assign writing assignments that are too long. But you could have done a much better job with your argument if you had used proper English.
Dylan · November 5, 2007 10:39 PM
Thanks, Jake. Schools stress writing because it is a basic skill you need for life. Being able to convey thoughts is crucial to effective communication, and honestly, I don't understand anything you write.