Regarding Joan Beck’s “English as the only choice” (Op-Ed, June 7). Having taught ESL (English as a Second Language) for more than 20 years, I have a few thoughts on the matter of “English Only”:
– Being bilingual is an asset in today’s world. Every day we are bombarded with terms like “global village” and “global corporations.” In this atmosphere, which will only increase, not diminish, speaking more than one language is critical.
– There are definite problems in bilingual education as practiced in this country, but there are definite success stories, as the Tribune has recently pointed out. With thoughtful discussion, the problems can be worked out.
– As with all educational issues, people can quote research to defend any position. I have read the research for both sides. But I sit back and review my 20-plus years as an ESL teacher and my experience, not the theory, tells me that only an exceptional few can learn English in one year. It simply takes more time than that. Not all students enter the U.S. in kindergarten with the luxury of 12 years before having to look for a job. Hundreds enter the U.S. at the middle school or high school level. They not only need to learn English but all the other subjects as well.
