Why does this topic matter?

Written communication in today's society is a critical component of life, whether it occurs in a thesis or as a treat. Communicating effectively, or not, influences outcomes from getting the right pizza order delivered to convincing someone to effect political change. Writing matters. And the most effective writing utilizes properly formulated grammar, in much the same way that science experiments require precise procedures using proper equipment. Without grammar, writing becomes an unformed mass of unrelated, incomprehensible phonemes. Yet many people believe that today's young communicators have lost the ability to use proper grammar, particularly in electronic communication. How can teachers reclaim a place for grammar in modern teaching? What is the best way to teach young writers grammar?

Some people think that teachers need to revert to "good old fashioned" grammar instruction to accomplish the goal, while others feel that modern students need more relevant instruction. The only thing that seems to be mutually agreed upon is that high school students have weaknesses in the area of grammar instruction.