The great debate on texting and its effects on the English language has been developing since texting on cell phones has become a world wide habit. Because of this, many people find themselves torn as to which side of the battle field makes the best arguments when it comes to the benefits of texting.

On one side, many have made the valid point that texting is the new age of communication, and an innovative way of manipulating the English language to create a unique style of writing, as well as being really convenient. It happens all the time in poetry, sophisticated Shakespearean works, and even common street slang, so adding texting to the mix is just one more improvement, right?

As discussed in this study, apparently it was proven that children who texted frequently scored higher on reading and vocabulary exercises, and it was assumed that this was due to their skills with abbreviating. Also in this study, the point was made that the more exposure children have to different forms of language, the more verbally skilled they will become, forming skills with both formal language and texting. This is not neccessarily a false assumption, however, there is a flip side to texting’s effects on language.

As convenient as texting may be, and as skilled as people may feel to understand all the lingo that comes with it, “LOL” and “BRB” won’t help you pass your English essay. As is pointed out in this blog, grammar problems are on the rise now that abbreviated text messages are becoming more popular. And as an added thought, it’s hard enough already to focus on your school work without responding to a message every two minutes.

Also mentioned in that blog was the fact that texting can be harmful to the vocabulary skills of young children, since they’re learning shortened versions of the word before learning the word themselves. And in an age where even kindergarteners are carrying cell phones, this is a danger that must be addressed. Another serious worry is that with all the shortened text, it’s nearly impossible to generate a complete thought when it can be abbreviated instead to save time. This is not a good practice either, as it is a danger to the intellect of today’s children.

All in all, texting is a powder keg of arguments over intellectual value and convenience. Some may say it’s benefiting us by providing an easier way of communication, and others retaliate with the fact that it jeopardizes vocabulary skills among children. But either way, one thing can be agreed on: As long as texting is around, the English language will never be the same.