From
RWC@21:1/5 to
All on Fri Feb 14 07:35:06 2025
I asked DeepSeek:
broadly speaking, if your first language is Mandarin or Cantonese what
do you recommended to be your second and third language?
(btw, the format of the response is much better than below if you make
the effort to ask DeepSeek online)
(you might be surprised by what you learn here; clearly the Chinese
have some deep-seated regard for the West and do not want to
eliminate the West any time soon with their military might - well,
that's my interpretation :)
DeepSeek response:
In **mainland China**, English is extremely popular as a language
taught in schools and is a mandatory part of the education system.
Here's an overview of its popularity and the typical age at which
students start learning English:
### **1. Popularity of English in Mainland China**
- **Mandatory Subject**: English is one of the three core subjects in
China's education system, alongside Chinese and mathematics. It is a
key component of the **Gaokao** (China's national college entrance
exam), making it essential for students' academic success.
- **Cultural Importance**: English is seen as a gateway to global opportunities, including higher education, international business, and technology. Many parents and students place a high value on English proficiency.
- **Private Tutoring**: Outside of school, many families invest
heavily in private English lessons, online courses, or language
schools to give their children an edge.
### **2. Age at Which English is Taught**
- **Formal Introduction**:
- English is officially introduced in **Grade 3** of primary school
(around age 8 or 9).
- However, in many urban areas and private schools, children start
learning English as early as **kindergarten** (age 3–6).
- **Early Exposure**:
- In major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, it's common
for children to be exposed to English through songs, cartoons, and
games even before starting school.
- Some elite kindergartens and primary schools offer bilingual
education, with English being used as a medium of instruction for
certain subjects.
### **3. Intensity of English Education**
- **Primary School**:
- Students typically have 2–4 English classes per week, focusing on
basic vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.
- **Middle School and High School**:
- English becomes more intensive, with daily classes and a focus on
reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
- Students are often required to memorize large amounts of
vocabulary and practice for standardized tests.
- **University**:
- English remains a key subject, especially for students majoring in
fields like science, technology, or business.
- Many universities offer courses taught in English to prepare
students for global careers.
---### **4. Challenges and Criticisms**
- **Rote Learning**: English education in China is often criticized
for focusing too much on memorization and test-taking (e.g., Gaokao
English exams) rather than practical communication skills.
- **Regional Disparities**: While students in urban areas often have
access to high-quality English education and resources, those in rural
areas may struggle due to a lack of qualified teachers and materials.
- **Pressure on Students**: The emphasis on English can create
significant stress for students, as it is a major factor in academic
and career success.
### **5. Growing Trends**
- **Bilingual Schools**: International and bilingual schools are
becoming increasingly popular among middle- and upper-class families,
offering immersive English education.
- **Online Learning**: Platforms like VIPKid, Dada, and others have
made it easier for students to learn English from native speakers
online.
- **Early Childhood Education**: Many parents are enrolling their
children in English-language preschools or hiring private tutors to
give them a head start.
### Summary:
- English is **highly popular** and widely taught in mainland China,
starting as early as **kindergarten** in urban areas and officially
from **Grade 3** (age 8–9) in public schools.
- It is a **core subject** throughout primary, middle, and high
school, with a strong emphasis on test preparation.
- Despite some challenges, English proficiency is seen as a critical
skill for academic and professional success, driving significant
investment in education and private tutoring.
--- SoupGate-Win32 v1.05
* Origin: fsxNet Usenet Gateway (21:1/5)