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Ebenezer
Oct. 7, 2008
More on Charles Murray's thoughts
Karen Chenoweth critiques Charles Murray's ideas, ones I referenced in a previous post. I agree with her concerns. But why can't we take the kernel of truth -- that intellectual differences are just as real as differences in skills in physical, musical, artistic, leadership and empathetic areas -- and say: All courses of study are AVAILABLE to all who want to try. NOT all courses are required. We encourage everyone to try with the knowledge that they can change course if it doesn't work out. But it still is ridiculous to REQUIRE four years of high school math for EVERYONE. Core requirements should be what is necessary to function independently in society. Consumer math. Budgeting. Understanding credit. Interest. Basic investing. Also civics and community service. Home ec, maybe, though it saddens me that many children aren't learning cooking, cleaning, and simple repairs at home any more. But: College prep should not be core requirement. Requiring those who aren't able or don't care dilutes the difficulty and value of the class. Those students are welcome, but should not be forced into it.
In fact, why don't we make things like auto shop required courses and precalculus/12th grade math an elective? I wish now that I had taken shop in HS. Let each child, with family guidance, chart their own educational course in high school, exploring interests and pursuing passions. That's why I'd like to keep homeschooling through high school.
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Oct. 20, 2008 - Untitled Comment