Writer lacks knowledge of language learning
Donald Miller's statements (Counterpoint, "Don't waste school time on Spanish," Sept. 26) regarding teaching foreign language in schools demonstrate his lack of understanding of both language learning and public school planning.
• In the best of circumstances, it takes about two full years of language immersion to get close to fluency, not "a few weeks of Berlitz." The sooner students start, the better chance they have of using the language naturally.
• There is no one language that is "easiest for an American to learn." Spanish is a very good match for schools because of the availability of qualified teachers. The enormous cost of finding and hiring enough certified Chinese teachers makes his suggestion of teaching that system-wide untenable.
• "No value" to language learning? Miller should study up on that one. Research shows how language learning activates different parts of the brain; it might even stave off Alzheimer's. Or he should visit the American Translators Association Web site to find out how many people make a very good living off of bilingual skills.
• "When and with whom will our kids use this language?" How about 322 million people, by latest counts. Some of whom live right next door.
Kathleen Quinby
Greensboro
Comments (1)
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Not only that, but if you accidentally hit '2' when calling rite-aid, you're still covered.
Posted on October 10, 2007 6:41 AM