Language Development - Journal Two...

Nicola Orridge
Language Development
Journal 2
31.07.2010


Teach Knowledge, Not “Mental Skills” – E.D. Hirsch

I particularly enjoyed the discussion around the difference between knowledge and mental skills in the group symposium. Initially, I found it difficult to determine the difference between the two concepts but after reading the article and participating in the group discussion, it became clear.

The article was written for the opinion page in the New York Times and used an informal construction and tone. I particularly liked the way in which the article followed an argument structure with a compare and contrast approach.

Initially, the author provides some background knowledge in order to illustrate the problem and immediately follows with his argument for the solution. The main section is introduced with the use of a rhetorical question; “What’s the secret of their success?”, and continues with the use of a compare and contrast approach; “Yes, problem-solving skills are necessary. But they depend on a wealth of relevant knowledge.” Each paragraph opens with a sentence to introduce the argument, an example, and then a summary explanation. I find this interesting as it is a simple but effective method of ensuring your arguments in writing are clear and concise. Towards the end of the article, Hirsch introduces a counter-argument before concluding with a summary.

I intend to use the knowledge that I have gained during this class within my future writings.