If school hasn’t already started for your child, it is just around the corner for others. Did your child spend any time brushing up on their math skills this summer? How about their grammar?
Well if your tween is a regular texter, their grammar skills might be lacking. A new study recently came out that found tweens who use shorthand (also known as tech speak) when texting, are more likely to use improper English, compared to those who don’t text.
Let me give you an example of a message that might be sent…
R u goin 2 b round ltr
This translates to: Are you going to be around later?
Now I have to admit, sometimes I use shorthand when texting. I am especially notorious for using the letter “r” instead of the word “are” and the letter “u” instead of the word “you”.
I usually only do this when I am in a rush to get a message out. But this new study says that parents can be the ones who set a good example to their tweens by not using shorthand.
I personally know teachers that complain about the negative impact texting has on their students. Some will actually use shorthand when completing homework or writing a report.
Not only should parents set a better example but we should also be discussing with our children the difference between shorthand when texting and proper grammar when completing schoolwork. We need to emphasize the importance of writing correctly and encourage them to drop the shorthand.
Besides poor grammar, texting can also impact socialization. Instead of talking face-to-face or over the phone, most teens will text each other.
There is something to be said for personalization, which is greatly lacking when thumbs are flying away. Parents can also do their part to encourage more personal interactions.
Do you use shorthand when texting?
Related Articles:
Risky Behavior Associated with Texting and Social Networking
Bullying via Text Messaging on the Rise
Texting Your Child While in School
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