The following is a series of responses to two position statements on faculty options for handling spelling errors in student papers. One position argued for a rigorous insistence on correct spelling, the other for a flexible approach. In my opinion, both are equally important, but they need to be taught in succession. First students must learn to develop and explain their ideas before they focus on the spelling and grammar skills to polish off their papers. It is harder to develop ideas when the writer is already concerned about her usage of grammar.
Some professors grade on ideas while others look for grammar and spelling.
This can be confusing because students may not know on which area to concentrate. It's difficult for freshmen who may not have one or either of these writing skills perfected. These misspellings create the image of the writer as less intelligent and less careful, even when such is not the case. While subtracting points for spelling errors on a test is not perfectly fair, it is sensible because it combats spelling problems. Many resources are available to overcome spelling errors.