Plan for optional leaving Cert
February 24, 2011
Madam, – As a secondary school student, it is my firm belief that students should not be forced to study the Irish language for the Leaving Certificate.
It may well be our national language, but preserving our heritage has little to do with the creation of jobs. Instead, I propose that the next government abolish compulsory Irish after the Junior Certificate, and in its place make it mandatory for the student to study at least one foreign language. Currently, the majority of students studying for their Leaving Certificate will be learning at least two languages – Irish and another European one. Though the latter is optional, many third-level educators require that you have another language, besides English and Irish. Thus, the current system is forcing us to study at least two languages. This is clearly unfair on the many people who find languages hard, but might have a natural flair for other subjects.
Abolishing compulsory Irish at Leaving Certificate level would not result in the loss of our heritage, as many would still choose to study the language (and be more willing to since it would not be enforced upon them). It would, however, let students focus on what they are good at, as opposed to struggling with a subject that they will more than likely not use in the future. – Yours, etc,
LAURA BRENNAN,
Home Farm Road,
Drumcondra, Dublin 9.
A chara, – Robin Bury’s contention that in terms of cost to the taxpayer, the compulsory study of the Irish language is “a manifest failure” (February 23rd) could equally be applied to Maths and English, the other two “core” subjects. Compulsory study does not guarantee learning and is far more likely to create an aversion to a subject than an interest in it. The case in favour of non-coercive education needs to be investigated, but such lack of control over the thoughts and actions of others is anathema to the establishment, ensuring that this will not happen any time soon. – Is mise,
GREG SCANLON,
Ballycasey Manor,
Shannon,
Co Clare.
The Irish Times – Litireacha chuig an Eagarthóir
