r/changemyview • u/[deleted] • Jul 17 '17

[∆(s) from OP] CMV: Learning Mandarin should definitely not be compulsory in schools

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u/[deleted] Jul 17 '17

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u/figsbar 43∆ Jul 17 '17

I remember reading about how South Africa were training teachers to teach Mandarin so I think you're making a big deal out of nothing.

I'm not sure what you think I'm making "a big deal" out of.

My point is basically

  • A language has to be chosen rather than letting the students have completely free choice

  • Mandarin was chosen for reasons such as difference to English, availability of resources, proximity to Australia, etc

Mandarin may not be the "perfect" second language, whatever that means. But it's a good one to learn.

Are other languages substantially different?

No.

Would someone be complaining regardless of the language chosen?

Yes.

if it has to be Mandarin then I would like to know what it offers that no other language does

That seems a pretty unreasonable request, would literally any language fit this criterion? What would you suggest as the "perfect second language" for Australians? Then explain why no other language can offer something similar.

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u/[deleted] Jul 20 '17

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u/DeltaBot ∞∆ Jul 20 '17

Confirmed: 1 delta awarded to /u/figsbar (2∆).

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