I write with reference to the letters from Vanessa Jakeman and an unnamed person (The Argus, May 24) regarding the use of proper grammar.

The English language is rather complex but a pleasure to hear when spoken properly, and also to read when the words are spelt correctly.

I do agree that it is a difficult language to write as so many words sound the same but have different spellings. In my spare time I set quizzes and hold “quiz events” at home and elsewhere.

I usually try to include some words which have different spellings.

I was educated at a secondary school where we did receive spelling lessons. I worked in an office environment for 45 years, which taught me a lot about spelling and grammar.

How many people ask, “Who is it?” or “Who are you?” instead of “To whom am I speaking?”

Learning to spell and speak correctly should be a vital part of a child’s education, in home life as well as the school environment.

Children learn at a very young age from the examples set by their elders.

I would like to know who decided to leave the hyphen out of words such as co-operate and co-operative. When these words are written as “cooperate” and “cooperative” the not-so-bright may well pronounce them incorrectly.

A cooper makes and repairs casks and barrels.

The Z has been replaced in some words with an S – why?

Emailing is not conducive to good grammar or spelling.

Am I the only person who reads what I have written before I press the send button?

Texting is in a language of its own and makes me cringe.

You do not have to sound like a snob when you speak but making an effort is worthwhile.

It goes side by side with dressing nicely, feeling good and having some pride in yourself.

Christine Luffman, Rotherfield Crescent, Hollingbury