Ok, maybe this should be in AIBU, but I'm utterly gobsmacked; 16-year-old son just got this feedback on one of his GCSE writing tasks:
I'll start with the IED writing. Two points: I don't suppose you'll ever write in a sustained informal register but for this particular purpose your vocabulary does need adjusting: too much of it is "fine writing" vocab. and could be interpreted as inappropriate/misunderstanding task. I know you'll say that's the way you write/talk... but it's risky. Of course you need to show some variety of register... but I still think it's too weighted towards the self-consciously Latinate. You are allowed to chat on paper, when the task demands it.... You have to shape your writing deliberately to show off these things... and change your aim from being "impressive" to something more punchy/journalistic.
I'm happy to say IABU, but I don't get it. I'd be really grateful for advice - it looks like he's being told to write in a less posh way. But it's English, ffs. I mean, why shouldn't he be doing fine writing? Why does he have to write a letter in a 'sustained informal register'? And what is wrong with the Latinate? I'd be really grateful for an explanation form some kind-hearted teacher! My son's teacher just seems to think this is how all 16-year-olds naturally write...