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Old Surrender

Link in Chinese: http://news.sina.com.cn/c/2014-05-18/065030159511.shtml

From what I can gather, it will be optional and students can take it multiple times. Is my conjecture true?

Anywho, what do y'all think?

Shroob · Joined: 02 Aug 2010 Posts: 1339

I think it's a sensible decision, most of the children sitting the gaokao have no intention of ever using English again.

Though there is the argument it benefits society as it facilitates trade, international co-operation, access to research etc. But I think for the average Zhou...the cost to benefit ratio is questionable.

What this means for teachers is another matter, I think demand may take a slight hit, but only slight.

Mr. English · Joined: 25 Nov 2009 Posts: 298 Location: Nakuru, Kenya

Provinces can opt out as well, and in Guangdong English will still be part of the program, so here the new rule will have zero impact. As to other provinces, I agree; I think minor impact.

davelister · Joined: 15 Jul 2013 Posts: 214

It could be argued that math(s), such as algebra, calculus and geometry are of little practical use for all but few.

Old Surrender · Posted: Tue May 20, 2014 10:05 am Post subject:

Voyeur · Joined: 03 Jul 2012 Posts: 431

Interesting decision. I can sympathize with the idea that a great power shouldn't have the language of a competing great power on their standardized university entrance exam.

On the other hand, the world is a bit different now. In such a globalized world, there is a burning need for an international language. English was there first, and most pundits seem to agree that Mandarin is inherently too difficult and ill-suited to the task to replace English, even in the event of Chinese primacy. So if China could swallow some pride, it would probably benefit from keeping its English requirements.

wonderingjoesmith · Joined: 19 Aug 2012 Posts: 910 Location: Guangzhou

dongbei united · Joined: 28 Feb 2014 Posts: 47

In Korea and Japan, select students study English. In China, EVERYONE studies it or has it at least on their schedule.

China might just yet get the crazy idea to NOT have all 50-60 students scheduled for English classes, but the 5-10 in each class that do participate and can speak at a basic level would go to a foreigner English class each day during what would be one of their normal independent study periods.

We have a few students here at my current school that are doing that. They are enrolled in a program, if they test into it. The big group classes are a waste of time.