Letter: New curriculum's emphasis on grammar
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: I am amazed to see from the table of ages/attainment ('English teachers get new rules', 3 February) that the National Curriculum Council considers competence in basic punctuation to be achievable at age 16 years.
I received a disjointed education during the last war, attending eight different primary schools by the age of 10. Classes of more than 50 children were the norm, frequently interrupted by air raids.
Nevertheless, I achieved all the skills listed in your table upon leaving junior school at the age of 11, and was graded 'average' ability. A sad reflection of the decline of our state education system.
Yours sincerely,
ANN JOHNSON
Stamford, Lincolnshire
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments