Re: Conceptual Tests

[James Braunsdorf <jamesbraunsdorf@HOTMAIL.COM>]

Many of the schools mentioned in the reply that used the ethnic languages
were church-related parochial schools of Lutheran or Catholic variety rather
than public schools.  The churches were often community centers for
preserving the languages and culture and the adults -particularly women who
were not in the workforce did not learn much English but the kids got it
when they went to public schools.



> <snip>
>
> >Every one in the past who immigrated here
> > and wanted to
> > fully participate in the political, economic, and social life
> > of the country
> > ended up learning and using English, why should it be different now?
> >
>
> While I actually agree with much of what Rick wrote, the above should be
> corrected.
>
>
> There are numerous examples of public schools taught in other languages
> during previous immigration waves to the US.  In the 1880's and 1890's in
> Ohio there were schools where the language of instruction was German and
> this wasn't unique to Ohio as far as I know.  (I didn't verify the dates
> above.)  I have little doubt that those in the current immigration waves
> will end up learning and using English if they wish to participate  in the
> social , political, economic, etc life of the nation; just as in the past.
>
> Joel Rauber




_________________________________________________________________
Chat with friends online, try MSN Messenger: http://messenger.msn.com