The tendency of modern English and speech teachers to turn away from vital issues has resulted in the present "undistinguished state" of rhetoric teaching and its lack of relevance to life. The proper subject matter of rhetoric is "the thought, opinion, and information revealed in the great, persisting, and unresolved problems of a civilization and culture." Teachers must reestablish rhetoric in the classical sense of practical discourse. Once this is done, they should present the ethical problems facing a communicator and emphasize the need to consider not only the means of communication but also the morality of these means. A consideration of practical discourse requires an evaluation of the similarities and differences between speaking and writing. These two skills should be taught in a learning situation where their weaknesses are minimized and their strengths reinforce each other. (LH)