The Quality of English

In Robert Lane Greene’s new book, “You Are What You Speak”, he includes a chapter about the decline of proper grammar. He points out that language sticklers have been complaining about poor grammar since the first century. Language is always changing, and as such, grammar evolving. Greene notes a fascinating correlation between illiteracy and grammar. In the late 1800s, about one in five people were illiterate. Today, nearly everyone can read and there are more writers than ever before. It stands to reason that with more people reading and writing, there will be more mistakes. In our world of instant messaging and text-speak, it’s no surprise that there is a (continuing) decline in proper grammar.

Yet those who care about maintaining the quality of language have not given up. At Kishwaukee College in Malta, Illinois special classes are being offered for ESL students. They understand that stronger English skills will help their graduates find employment. It is especially important for adults to work on their English because children learn from their parents. According to Teresa Fort of ehow.com, perfect writing will only follow perfect speech. If parents speak with proper grammar, naturally children will pick up on this and do it themselves. This speech will then translate into proper grammar in writing.

WhiteSmoke Inc. also believes in the importance of providing the tools to help people learn and improve their English. Aside from the WhiteSmoke Translator, designed to encourage perfect English when used alongside the WhiteSmoke 2011 Grammar-Checker, the WhiteSmoke website offers free English lessons and tips. The WhiteSmoke Translator is great for native English-speakers, as well as for people who speak English as a second language.