TV news continues to wind up everyone about testing children or, at least, Channel Four does. I thought tonight’s programme was interesting in its visual impact. There were three screen shots that I thought were compelling:
- First, there was the writing shot with children holding biros. I thought there were more left-handers than there were right-handers which must be wrong statistically but may satisfy some politically-correct TV directors;
- Second, was the tortured style in which many children held their biros, rather as they might grip a hammer than a writing instrument. I suspect school teachers are no longer allowed to guide children in how to hold a pen. Children (not “students”) probably have to be left to develop their own style. Sadly, this probably condemns many to illiteracy.
- Finally, a banner, held aloft by a child, contained a spelling mistake that was disgraceful for an eleven-year old and no self-respecting teacher should have allowed to receive public attention. However, that always assumes the teacher knew it was mis-spelled!!