RE: Cathy Holmes question on 1960s methodology and today's
"process-driven" composition not producing any better writers than those
of her generation.
    I can only say that as a US Army colonel, and a part time ESL
instructor with the University of Texas state system, I expect my
officers and employees to produce grammatically correct products, and I
tell my students writers are going to be more and more judged on their
correct use of grammar and general writing skills in this global,
internet-connected society. The days of face to face meetings and
interviews seems to be slipping away, and one's writing and written
grammar skills are going to be one's passport to employment, acceptance,
and a fair hearing of their products and ideas. Poor writing is simply
going to continue identifying the writer's education and ability levels.
All English speakers and writers must be even more on the alert for
proper grammar as the English language increases its dominance in
written and spoken  international communications. Few people realize all
aviation aircraft-to-aircraft and aircraft-to-ground communications are
in English world wide, and English on the internet seems standard. I
urge teachers, employers, and all English writers and speakers to hold
to long established standards. Written communication has lost none of
its value and just seems to grow in importance. This is not the time to
slacken. Just my thoughts. Best wishes, Gordon Carmichael