Discusses how reading and writing are defined and valued in the study of English. Argues for teaching reading and writing as something other than a set of functional skills and for thinking about culture as more than a set of revered texts. (PRA)

English and writing teachers are often pressurized to return to the basics of grammar, despite the evidence that drilling grammar does not improve students' writing skills. A great disparity exists between public perception of effective education and the perception of professional educators, which is the main reason why parents and government…

Considers the educational views espoused by the Centre for Policy Studies of Great Britain as revealed in recent publications. Examines the strategies used by this group to block meaningful dialog. Argues for a more comprehensive concept of English instruction, and outlines such an agenda. (HB)

Three English courses, based on the idea that subject matter, basic skills, and values are three separate areas that can be taught simultaneously, are described in this paper. The course described in the first section, "Women and Literature," combines interesting thematic material and values clarification with practice in traditional composition…