Thanks to all who contributed to this discussion, especially the teachers!
My son reminded me the other day that this particular teacher had a 45-student class dropped in his lap rather unexpectedly at the beginning of the year. So, yeah, I TOTALLY get the issue of time.
I would love to see a thoughtful critique of my son's paper -- like I received in school ALL the time -- but understand that 4 classes x 30 students = a major PIA when it comes to anything beyond checking for proper margins and headings.
But still.
Even if only one paragraph of each paper were ripped to shreds... or maybe another assignment focuses on transitions. I don't know. I just can't believe that the As are handed out so freely when there is little to no preparation for the demands that await him in college.
And thanks also for the person above who recommended "The War on Grammar." I've already ordered a copy for the teacher. After all, I know he has all sorts of free time to read!
