I am interested in whether the following would be thought of as consensus positions among those of you on list (self-proclaimed as interested in the teaching of English grammar). I am certainly open to a list discussion, but those of you who would feel more comfortable just saying yes/no (or maybe) and/or those of you who would prefer to be anonymous can also feel free to email me directly and save wear and tear on the list. If the response is strong, I'll pass on the results. Unlike some surveys in our recent history, I don't presuppose a right answer and am happy to listen to nuanced responses. It's not a trick quiz. 1) Acquiring a language is easy for a native speaker. It happens naturally, without direct instruction. 2) Achieving high levels of literacy is hard, but for the most part it happens without direct instruction. 3) Acquiring the language of Standard English is hard, but for the most part it happens without direct instruction. 4) Learning to read complex texts is hard, but for the most part it happens without direct instruction. 5) Learning to write effectively is hard, but for the most part it happens without direct instruction. 6) Learning about language is hard. It does not happen without direct instruction. Craig To join or leave this LISTSERV list, please visit the list's web interface at: http://listserv.muohio.edu/archives/ateg.html and select "Join or leave the list" Visit ATEG's web site at http://ateg.org/