英美社会与文化
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The British Educational SystemAs far as we know, there are pre-primary schools, primary schools, secondary schools and university or college. Pre-school education is available (often on a fee-paying basis) for children aged 2 to 4/5 through playgroups and nursery schools. And many of them are private. The emphasis of pre-primary schools is on group work, creative activity and guided play.Two systems of primary and secondary education in Britain: 1. State Schools: 11-year Compulsory Education (5-16), we can know that there is comprehensive school (84%), grammar school (3%) or secondary modern school (7%) from the state primary school. 2. Public schools/Independent schools: there is an only 7% public (independent) school from prep school.What are the main differences between the two? We can find four points. 1. School Funding. In state schools, state funding from central government; supplemented by local finance. And in public schools, funding from tuition fees; endowments or donations from society (esp. alumni to their ammeters). 2. Attendance. There are 93% in state schools, only 7% in the public schools. 3. Teaching Staff and Facilities. Public schools have better teaching staff & facilities. 4. Graduates. Students from the public schools are more promising, e.g. Eton College has educated 20 Prime Ministers, 6 Chancellors of Exchequers, etc.Compulsory education begins at 5 in England, Wales and Scotland and 4 in Northern Ireland. Pupils mainly attend state sector primary schools (co-educational or mixed schools). Infants schools have equal to the first schools (for 2 years from 5). Junior schools (for 4 years to 11). There’s little or no specialist subject teaching and great emphasis is on literacy and numeracy in early years.Compulsory education ends at age 16. At 16, students in England and Wales take GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) examinations involving a final exam, an assessment of work done during the two-year course, or both of these things. Then they can leave school and find a job. Other pupils who decide not to go to university may choose to take vocational training and get the GNVQ (GeneralNational V ocational Qualification).In my opinion, about the entrance procedures, in the third term of Year 12, students prepare their applications to university. Applications are then made in the first term of the Year 13 through one centralized organization known as UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). Students can apply to a maximum of 6 universities/institutions. Admission-selection on basis of A level results & an interview.In teaching methods, we can see, the UK educational system encourages self-study, discussions and practical work. The students may have time-tabled classes or might be encouraged to do more of independent work for a substantial amount of time depending on the course.Most of the courses would include the following teaching methods: lectures, seminars, tutorials, independent workand coursework.There are two famous universities in Britain. They are the Cambridge and Oxford. Cambridge University was founded in 1209 by students fleeing from Oxford after one of the many episodes of violence between the university and the town of Oxford. Cambridge is one of the world’s great universities, and has the ability to transform lives. If you study here, you will experience that quality at first hand. Day to day, you will work with academic staff who are leaders in their fields, and who are also committed to see you succeed, and to help you develop your ideas, knowledge and understanding.Legend has it that Oxford University was founded by King Alfred in 872 to encourage education and establish schools throughout his territory. Like a grammar school, it was just a place for teaching Latin grammar at that time. The University actually began in the 12th century as gatherings of students around popular masters. The university consisted of people, not buildings. The buildings came later as a recognition of something that already existed. In a way, Oxford was never founded; it grew.Oxford is one of the greatest universities in the world. It has played a distinguished part in the history of our country and our continent, and has much to contribute to our success and our well-being as a civilized community in the future.The Boat Race between Oxford & Cambridge started June 10, 1829.The event is now a British national institution, and is televised live each year. The race has beenwon by Cambridge 79 times and Oxford 73 so far. The race is currently run over a four mile and 374 yard (6.8 km) stretch of the River Thames between Putney and Mortlake in London.Oxford wear dark blue and Cambridge light blue.In Chinese higher education, we can find five dilemmas. There is enrollment expansion, elite education vs mass education, intense competition in the job market, resources are straining and education quality is suffering.There are five defects of Chinese higher education. Defect 1: Blind Enrollment Expansion. Universities seem to have enrolled more than they can accommodate! Limited facilities & space, insufficient resources, shabby dorms (slum)…Expansion means a lot more! Fierce competition in the job market. Defect 2: Awkward Teaching Method. Teachers tend to spoon-feed their students who are in turn spoon-fed and force-fed!More trust, freedom, interactions and responsibilities for the students! Teachers should serve as advisors & assistants!Defect 3: Prescribed / Designated Textbooks. A lack of flexibility (few alternative choices), Outdated contents (keep pace with), The prescribed textbooks can be replaced by …Defect 4: Unreasonable Curriculum. Many outdated courses should be abolished! More utilitarian courses are welcome! (Computer Science, Business, Finance, Accounting and Law)One shouldn’t be confined to one’s specific field.Moral education is in urgent demand! (campus violence, suicide, theft, murder) Defect 5:Unfair Assessment System. Exam-oriented style! (Scores talk!)Students: exams of lottery(memory test / work overtime shortly before the test)How can we improve it? I will show my answer. It’s a time-consuming & systematic project.Never wait for the improvement! Get a move now! You and me are part of Chinese higher education! Try to make the best and most of the current situation! Stop complaining and try to make a difference from now on.。
英美社会与文化课英语作文The United States and the United Kingdom, often referred to as the "Anglo-Saxon" world, share a rich history, language, and cultural heritage that have significantly influenced the global landscape. As two of the most powerful and influential nations, the social and cultural dynamics of these countries have captivated scholars and enthusiasts alike. From the iconic landmarks and vibrant cities to the diverse customs and traditions, the societies of England and America offer a fascinating glimpse into the shared experiences and unique differences that define the "English-speaking world."One of the most striking similarities between the UK and the US is the prevalence of the English language. As the primary language of both nations, English has become a global lingua franca, enabling communication and facilitating the exchange of ideas across borders. This linguistic unity has fostered a sense of kinship and understanding, allowing for the seamless flow of information, media, and cultural products between the two countries.However, the use of English in the UK and the US is not without itsnuances. Regional dialects, colloquialisms, and accents add richness and diversity to the language, reflecting the unique cultural identities of different communities. From the received pronunciation of the British upper class to the drawling twang of the American South, the variations in English serve as a testament to the adaptability and dynamism of the language.Beyond language, the social structures and cultural values of the UK and the US share a number of parallels. Both nations place a strong emphasis on individualism, personal freedom, and the pursuit of economic prosperity. The capitalist economic systems in both countries have shaped societal norms, with a focus on entrepreneurship, innovation, and the accumulation of wealth.At the same time, the two societies have grappled with issues of inequality, social stratification, and the ongoing struggle for greater inclusivity and representation. The legacy of colonialism, slavery, and systemic discrimination has left lasting imprints on the social fabric of both nations, leading to ongoing efforts to address these complex historical legacies.In the realm of politics and governance, the UK and the US share a common foundation in the principles of democracy, with elected representative systems and the rule of law. However, the specific political structures and decision-making processes differ, with theUK's parliamentary system and the US's presidential system presenting distinct challenges and opportunities.The cultural landscapes of the UK and the US are equally diverse and multifaceted. Both countries boast rich artistic traditions, from the literary masterpieces of Shakespeare and Hemingway to the groundbreaking achievements in music, visual arts, and cinema. The vibrant culinary scenes in major cities like London and New York reflect the global influences and diverse immigrant populations that have shaped the culinary identities of these nations.Furthermore, the social and recreational activities of the UK and the US share numerous commonalities. Sports, such as football (soccer) and American football, have become integral parts of the cultural fabric, fostering national pride and community engagement. The shared love for television, film, and popular culture has also created a sense of shared experience and cultural exchange between the two countries.Despite these similarities, there are also notable differences between the UK and the US that highlight the unique cultural identities of each nation. The UK's long-standing traditions, such as the monarchy, the House of Lords, and the deeply ingrained class system, contrast with the more egalitarian and meritocratic ideals that have shaped American society.Furthermore, the geographic and demographic diversity of the two countries has led to distinct regional cultures and subgroups. The rugged individualism and frontier spirit of the American West, for instance, differs significantly from the stately grandeur and historical legacy of the British countryside.As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the cultural exchange and mutual influence between the UK and the US continue to evolve. The sharing of ideas, the cross-pollination of artistic expressions, and the ongoing dialogue between the two nations have enriched the global cultural tapestry, showcasing the enduring power of the "Anglo-Saxon" heritage.In conclusion, the social and cultural dynamics of the United Kingdom and the United States, while sharing numerous commonalities, also exhibit unique and distinct characteristics that contribute to the vibrant diversity of the English-speaking world. The study of these societies offers a profound understanding of the shared experiences and divergent paths that have shaped the global landscape, inspiring ongoing exploration and appreciation of the rich tapestry of human civilization.。