The Editor, Sir:

PatoIs is by no means demeaning, but I have noticed over the years that the majority of the students are failing English language in exams because they cannot speak English.

Sometimes, if you listen to some of the teachers who are being interviewed for one reason or another on the television, they are also having problems speaking English. This is sad, and I believe that is why everyone is calling for Patois as a second language.

I also agree with the prime minister here that we cannot communicate with the outside world (internationally) using patois, but because competence in English language has deteriorated in schools, they want to replace it.

I am, etc.

ELIZABETH A. JOHNSON

lallustab@yahoo.com

Liguanea PO

Kingston 6