Primary school pupils should learn reading, writing and arithmetic according to the FDP
Published: Saturday, Jun 22nd 2024, 13:50
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The FDP Switzerland wants to restructure elementary school. Elementary school should teach the basic skills of reading, writing and arithmetic. According to the party, the integrative school does not achieve these goals. Priority should be given to learning the local first language. Grades should remain.
"Primary school at the limit: back to the educational mission": This is the title of the FDP's position paper, which the delegates' meeting in Möriken AG on Saturday passed with 249 votes in favor, 4 against and 7 abstentions. The assembly dealt with two dozen amendments, the majority of which were rejected.
The topic is on people's minds, said party president Thierry Burkart: "Society has been waiting for us to discuss it." The FDP would do well to take a clear position.
First language more important than foreign language
For example, the focus should be on learning the local first language in lower school. Only then should pupils have to learn a second or foreign language, according to the paper. The delegates weakened the strategy on this point: Initially, the paper stated that early French and early English should be removed from the timetable.
However, the FDP would like to abolish integrative schools. Pupils' existing weaknesses should be targeted and individually supported. Artificial and very "expensive egalitarianism" in the form of integration without exception benefits no one and undermines equal opportunities.
Understanding the language of instruction
According to the party, foreign-language children should consistently learn the local language before entering elementary school. Special classes that initially focus on language acquisition should also be examined. Understanding the language of instruction is an essential prerequisite for equal opportunities.
In the paper, the FDP continues to speak out against "ideologically motivated attempts" to abolish school grades. The performance principle is important for the development of children's resilience. According to the FDP, there is no place for ideological and woke teaching materials. The subject matter should be taught as neutrally as possible.
Against educational bureaucracy
The position paper lists 17 areas for action. For example, there should be fewer forms and more teaching in elementary school. Teachers should also be rewarded for their performance, it says. Educational bureaucrats should be stopped and teachers and specialists should be strengthened.
The paper calls for more respect in the classroom. Smartphones should be banned from the classroom at primary school level. When using digital tools at school, the opportunities should be exploited and the risks recognized.
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