This message  was originally submitted by  Bill Murdick ([log in to unmask])
to the ATEG  list at
MIAMIU.ACS.MUOHIO.EDU.
 
As an ATEG member, I wish to put it on record that I oppose any
"program of instruction" on sentences in the schools because I
believe that such programs take too much time away from the reading,
writing, and discussion of texts. Like Frank Smith, I believe that
students learn sophisticated sentence writing and sentence grammar
mainly from reading, and somewhat from writing; they learn almost nothing
from lectures, regardless of how good the lectures are.
 
I am not against mini-lessions nor am I against individual instruction
on problems or opportunities on the sentence level, but programs of
instruction tend to take over the whole course.
 
I make this statement just to establish the multiplicity of views
within this organization.
 
        --Bill Murdick
 
"It's a long way from sparks to fire."